Washington Adventist University’s Music Department Earns Nomination for ACDA Regional Conference 2024

TAKOMA PARK, MD  — The music department of Washington Adventist University continues to demonstrate the remarkable potential of its students with its latest achievement: a nomination to perform for the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Regional Conference of 2024.

Each year, ACDA alternates between regional and national conferences. This year’s regional conferences are being held in Providence, Rhode Island. The event features workshops and clinics catering to choirs and choir directors of various types, including children, middle school, high school, collegiate, community, church, and professional choirs. Additionally, several ongoing concerts by different ensembles are scheduled throughout the conference.

Amid several applications, WAU’s elite choir, Pro Musica of WAU, was selected to participate. Pro Musica is an auditioned 24-voice choir, directed by Dr. Anwar Ottley. All student members of Pro Musica receive a merit scholarship and are required to take voice lessons. What’s even more notable, ACDA requested Pro Musica to perform the commissioned choral piece composed for the conference, a high distinction.

WAU President Dr. Weymouth Spence remarked, “It is with profound honor that I congratulate our Pro Musica Ensemble on their invitation to perform at the American Choral Directors Association Eastern Regional Conference. Such an invitation is a testament to the unwavering commitment to excellence by the faculty, staff and students that define WAU.  As we celebrate this achievement, let it serve as a reminder of the remarkable accomplishments that stem from the collaborative spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence that characterizes WAU.” 

The event has garnered significant interest, with over 700 registrants. In addition to performing for the main audience of conference attendees, WAU has been invited to sing in front of over 600 honor choir students comprising high school juniors and seniors aspiring to pursue a music career. This presents a rare opportunity to showcase the university and its mission. “The music we have selected to perform reflects themes surrounding praise, rest, and restoration. It is our privilege to share the highest level of choral music that reflects the value of our faith and reflects the diversity of our students”, remarked Director Anwar Ottley.

Traditionally, many Adventist music schools and ensembles have confined performances to church services and faith-related events. However, within the past decade, Adventist schools and universities have increasingly participated in the greater music community nationally and abroad, expanding students’ exposure beyond church walls and providing insights into the diverse scope of the music field. Such events offer invaluable networking opportunities and help students enhance their portfolios.

For some attendees, this event will serve as their initial introduction to the university and its musical excellence. For others, it will further solidify the legacy of Washington Adventist University in the music realm.

Dr. Anwar Ottley spearheaded the school’s application process, submitting audition materials in March of 2023. This included selecting appropriate repertoire for the choir, a task undertaken during the summer preceding the 2022-2023 academic year. As part of the audition process, quality recordings and the anticipted repertoire for the conference were submitted. Upon acceptance of WAU’s application, the entire department commenced work on the music at the onset of the 2023-2024 academic year, reflecting extensive preparation and dedication.

“I have full confidence in the students’ abilities. They have been well-prepared, and we have been anticipating this for over a year. This achievement is significant for our students and serves to enhance our reputation and legacy within the choral community. Following this endeavor, we may explore entering other national or international festivals and competitions, or even pursue participation in the ACDA National Conference, a monumental undertaking,” Dr. Ottley remarked.