Southwestern and WAU Choirs Unite for an Inspiring Vespers Concert

TAKOMA PARK, Md. — The voices of Pro Musica from Washington Adventist University (WAU) and the University Singers from Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) came together on January 17, 2025, for a special Vespers Concert at Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church. As the first Vespers of the semester, the event was a moving expression of worship through music, bringing students from different backgrounds together in a shared spiritual experience.

The collaboration was born from a long-standing friendship between Jonathan E. L. Wall, Chair of the Department of Music and Director of Choral & Vocal Studies at SWAU, and Dr. Anwar Ottley, Director of Choral Activities at WAU.  “Dr. Ottley and I met in graduate school, and I’m honored to call him both a friend and colleague,” said Wall. “We’ve crossed paths at choral conferences over the years and finally found the opportunity to bring our choirs together for this experience.”

The concert’s theme centered on praise and adoration, reflecting the spiritual pillar of WAU’s mission. “Through song, scripture, and prayer, we acknowledged our need for a Savior and invited His presence into our lives,” Wall explained.  Each choir performed selections individually, culminating in a powerful joint performance of He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands by Adolphus Hailstork. Ottley emphasized that the piece was intentionally chosen to bring the two ensembles together. “It was a unifying selection, featuring soloists from both universities, making it a truly collaborative experience.”  Additionally, the message of the song offers hope at a time where there is uncertainty in the world. 

Beyond the music, the students formed meaningful connections. “As Pro Musica rehearsed in the sanctuary, SWAU students walked in and began cheering for them. In response, our students cheered back, filling the room with mutual appreciation and encouragement—it was a beautiful way to welcome each other,” Ottley shared. “After the concert, students from both choirs gathered around the piano and continued worshiping together. It was a truly memorable moment that captured the spirit of this collaboration.”

Audience members, including students, faculty, and community members, responded with overwhelming appreciation. “The WAU and Sligo communities were incredibly welcoming and appreciative of the music we shared,” said Wall. “It was an honor to bring joy, comfort, and hope to new friends through music.”  Dr. Cheryl Kisunzu, Provost of WAU who was in attendance with President Ana Patterson of SWAU,  reflected on the concert’s deeper significance. “‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ not only ushered in our recent MLK Holiday Weekend, but it also described our experience. The voices of WAU’s Pro Musica and SWAU’s University Singers blended beautifully, demonstrating the power of music to unite students from different cultures and backgrounds in a way that enriches hearts and elevates lives.”

Both directors hope this collaboration will lead to future opportunities.  “We would absolutely love to host WAU in Texas for an immersive worship experience,” Wall shared.  Ottley echoed the sentiment, acknowledging the challenges of geographical distance but leaving the door open for future joint performances. “If we’re ever in each other’s neighborhood, we’ll find a way to make something happen.”

This concert was a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries, fostering both connection and worship among students and audiences alike.

You can find more photos here.