Virginia High School A Cappella Choir
Virginia High School A Cappella Choir | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Virginia, Minnesota |
| Genres | Choral |
| Occupation | High school choir |
| Years active | 1970s–2022 |
| Past members | Directed by Dallis Frandsen, Matthew Krage |
Virginia High School A Cappella Choir was the premier auditioned vocal ensemble at Virginia High School in Virginia, Minnesota. Active from the early 1970s until the school's closure in 2022, the choir performed advanced choral repertoire, participated in regional festivals, and toured nationally. It was widely regarded as one of the most distinguished high school vocal ensembles in northeastern Minnesota.
History
The A Cappella Choir was formally established under the direction of Dallis Frandsen, who led the vocal music program from 1967 to 1996.[1] By 1981, the choir had grown to 74 members and performed at choir festivals hosted by Bemidji State University and St. Olaf College.[2] It also presented three annual concerts in Virginia and held community fundraisers such as fruit sales, bingo nights, and a variety show.
In 2008, Concordia College graduate Matthew Krage became the choir director and served until the high school's closure.[3] Krage expanded the choir's touring program and introduced a tiered ensemble structure. Under his leadership, the A Cappella Choir maintained a biennial national touring schedule.
Structure and membership
The A Cappella Choir consisted of auditioned SATB singers in grades 10–12. Entry was determined by vocal range, tone quality, sight-reading ability, and musicianship. It was part of a broader choral program that also included:
- 7th Grade Men’s Choir
- 7th Grade Women’s Choir
- 8th Grade Men’s Choir
- 8th Grade Women’s Choir
- Kantori (non-auditioned tenor/bass, grades 9–12)
- Bel Canto (non-auditioned soprano/alto, grades 9–12)
- Chamber Choirs for special performances and contests
The A Cappella Choir served as the school’s most advanced ensemble and frequently represented Virginia High School at Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) vocal contests.
Repertoire and performances
The choir performed a varied repertoire of classical, sacred, spiritual, and contemporary works. Concerts were typically held in Goodman Auditorium, a 1,500-seat venue located within the school. Goodman hosted the choir's final public performance in 2023 before the building was closed.[4]
Touring and collaborations
The A Cappella Choir toured nationally every two years. Documented destinations included:
- New York City
- San Francisco
- Oklahoma City
- Honolulu
- Phoenix
- Minneapolis[5]
The choir also participated in joint performances with collegiate ensembles. In 2024, Rock Ridge High School’s A Cappella Choir (successor to VHS) was invited to perform alongside the Concordia Choir during their national tour.[6]
Legacy
The Virginia High School A Cappella Choir was noted for its musical rigor, community presence, and national touring program. Its alumni include musicians and educators across the United States. The choir’s final years coincided with the transition to Rock Ridge Public Schools, which opened a new high school and performing arts center in 2023.
References
- ^ Dallis D. Frandsen Obituary, Hantge Funeral Chapel, accessed June 2025. [1](https://hantge.com/obituaries/dallis-d-frandsen/)
- ^ Virginia High School Yearbook, 1981, pp. 60–61. Virginia MN History Project. [2](https://www.virginiamnhistory.com/uploads/1/0/1/3/101317668/1981.pdf)
- ^ Cole, Jean. "Director Matt Krage Carries On Strong Choral Tradition at VHS." *Hometown Focus*, October 28, 2011.
- ^ Lawler, Christa. "Goodnight, Goodman: Iron Range's mini Carnegie Hall hosts its last concert." *Star Tribune*, May 19, 2023. [3](https://www.startribune.com/goodnight-goodman-iron-ranges-mini-carnegie-hall-hosts-its-last-concert/600276174)
- ^ "Virginia A Cappella Choir Returns from Tour," *Hometown Focus*, April 10, 2015.
- ^ Romsaas, Jim. "Concordia Choir headed to Rock Ridge." *Mesabi Tribune*, January 25, 2024. [4](https://www.mesabitribune.com/news/local/concordia-choir-headed-to-rock-ridge/article_bef426c2-bf6f-11ee-bc25-53144a7c3e7d.html)
External links
- 1981 Virginia High School Yearbook (Choir coverage, p. 60–61)