Graceland University Music Department Gives Back

Movie night looked a little different this past February as both Choir and Jazz put on concerts to benefit the Lamoni movie theatre, the Coliseum. Like many businesses, the Coliseum was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, so the Graceland Music Department banded together to support the beloved local theatre. Led by the Director of Choral/Vocal Activities, Assistant Professor of Music, and Music Department Coordinator, Dr. Sara Blessing, the Graceland University choirs performed a variety of hit cinematic music from the 1940s to the 2000s in the Shaw auditorium. The audience was encouraged to donate online or offer in-person donations while enjoying “A Night at the Movies.”  

One week later, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Bands Christopher Brandt, DMA, and the Graceland University Jazz Ensemble performed at the Coliseum, where audience members received free popcorn courtesy of the theatre. Between the two events, $3,682 was raised to support the Coliseum.  

When asked what inspired Dr. Blessing to put on these fundraisers, she said, “The Coliseum is Graceland, but it’s also the community. I came from a small town, and we didn’t have a movie theatre; the closest one was 30 minutes away, and I didn’t want to see the theatre go away for the Lamoni community. We were hoping to give them some funds to support them through this trying time.” 

Tonight, the Graceland choirs will be putting on their concert “Reflections: Sun, Earth, Moon, and Stars” in the Shaw Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. the show is free and open to the public.  

 Learn more about Graceland University performance ensembles.