St. Isidore’s Catholic choir releases third CD

By Clint Blaes

Student Publications Editor

MANHATTAN, Kan. -- The sounds of 53 voices and instruments blending together in musical harmony could be heard in the chapel of St. Isidore’s Catholic Student Center at Kansas State University on Saturday, April 28. Members of the St. Isidore’s Choir performed a concert to a crowd of more than 300 people to celebrate the release of their third CD, “Dwelling Place.”

Like their first two CDs, the cover song for “Dwelling Place” was written by Frank Schmeidler, director of worship at St. Isidore’s, and Father Keith Weber, chaplain. The song is based on Psalm 84. The CD also features a mix of songs, including some regularly sung at Mass, and others typically performed by the choir.

“People who attend Mass at St. Isidore’s will recognize the songs,” Schmeidler said. “That’s very important to us.”

Schmeidler said that among the favorites on the CD are “On Eagle’s Wings” and “You Are Mine.”

“I like them all,” Schmeidler said, “but those are two that we’ve gotten lots of comments about. Everyone recognizes those songs.”

One thing that the choir did differently this time than with their first two CDs was record the instrumental accompaniment separately from the choir. This allowed Schmeidler to mix the vocalists and instruments to give listeners a more balanced mix. “I thought the second CD was better than the first, and this one is even better,” Schmeidler said.

Students who attended the concert said they really enjoyed it. “It never ceases to amaze me the kind of talent that the choir has,” said Dave Ochs, sophomore in civil engineering.

The talent of both the vocalists and the instrumental performers surprised some attendees. “Not only did the choir sound wonderful, but I was also mesmerized by the skills of the instrumentalists,” said Jenna Kennedy, junior in microbiology. “They were all professionals in my book.”

Both students and permanent community members are excited about the release of the new CD.

“The choir is always an inspiration at Masses,” said Dan Hinkin, permanent community member. “It’s fantastic to have another recording of beautiful music to travel with and sing along to.”

Copies of the CD are available for a $15 donation by contacting the St. Isidore’s office at (785) 539-7496 or stisidores@stisidores.com. An additional $2 for shipping will be added for CDs to be mailed. Costs for the CD production were donated by Schram Chrysler Dodge in Manhattan. Proceeds will help to fund the continued growth of the music program at St. Isidore’s.

The CD is available by contacting the St. Isidore’s office at (785) 539-7496.