SIOUX CITY, Iowa — On March 17, Morningside University’s choir is headed for the bright lights of Carnegie Hall. Director of Choral Activities Dr. Ryan Person and 22 students will take the stage for a once-in-a-lifetime performance at the world-famous venue.

Performing in one of the most prestigious concert venues in the world, the group will showcase their talent on a stage that has hosted legendary musicians for over a century. Morningside students are in the middle of rehearsing for the concert.

“It’s an honor to be selected to participate,” Person said. “It’s a great opportunity for our students, and I also look forward to conducting in this world-renowned venue.”

Manhattan Concert Productions invited Person and the choir to sing in New York City, and that organization invites several choirs nationwide. Person will be conducting alongside his Yale University counterpart, Dr. Felicia Barber.

Students will enjoy a three-night stay, where they’ll receive Broadway show tickets, a post-concert reception, and some of the best views in the city. Plus, they’ll bring home a commemorative poster, a professional recording, and a certificate marking their achievement.

Not only will it be the students’ first performance at Carnegie Hall, but it will also be new for Person. The experienced conductor has directed other notable festival choirs, including the South Dakota High School All-State Chorus.

“Of course, this will be a very unique honor,” Person said. “The experience will be very special, but the moment is difficult to fully comprehend until setting foot on the stage.”