More Than 400 Student Singers to Take the Stage for 41st Annual ISU Choral Invitational Festival

The annual festival brings 13 high school choirs to the Idaho State University campus for a day of music-making, instruction and collaboration with ISU faculty and guest clinicians. The final concert will feature the participating high school ensembles alongside ISU choirs, showcasing the work of hundreds of young musicians from throughout the region.

This year’s guest conductor, David Fryling, is a professor of music and director of choral studies at Hofstra University in New York. Fryling recently served as president of the American Choral Directors Association, a national organization dedicated to advancing excellence in choral music through performance, education and advocacy.

“Over 400 singers representing 13 high schools from across southeastern Idaho will come together on the stage of Jensen Hall for an unforgettable choral experience,” said Jeffrey Francom, director of choral activities at Idaho State University. “We are thrilled to welcome our guest conductor, Dr. David Fryling of Hofstra University in New York. Dr. Fryling recently served as president of the American Choral Directors Association, and we are excited to see him share his expertise, passion and musical leadership with our students.”

Now in its 41st year, the Choral Invitational has become a longstanding opportunity for high school musicians and their directors to connect with ISU music faculty, perform in a professional concert setting and experience collegiate-level music-making.

Shandra Helman, chair of the ISU Department of Music, said the festival reflects the department’s broader commitment to musical excellence, community engagement and educational outreach.

“By providing regional students and directors with access to world-class clinicians and performance opportunities, the department demonstrates its leadership role in Idaho’s cultural and educational landscape,” Helman said. “The hundreds of attendees, including parents, alumni and music supporters, help us sustain a vibrant arts culture in the region. The Choral Invitational highlights ISU as a welcoming, resourceful and inspiring institution where young musicians can thrive.”

The festival’s concluding concert begins at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, in Jensen Grand Concert Hall at the Stephens Performing Arts Center on the Idaho State University campus in Pocatello. Tickets range from $7 to $10 and are available through the Idaho State University Ticket Office. ISU students receive one free ticket with a valid Bengal ID. Pocatello/Chubbuck School District 25 students may receive two free tickets to ISU music events.