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2024 ACDA Northwestern Region Conference January 24-27, 2024 Spokane, Washington

University of Wyoming Vox Pacifica

Singing Statesmen

Vox Pacifica is an auditioned choir of multi-gener-
ational alto and soprano singers based in Bellingham,
Washington, under the artistic direction of Wendy
The University of Wyoming Singing Statesmen are Bloom. Since their debut in the fall of 2018, Vox Paci-
dedicated to providing outstanding service to the Uni- fica has continued to perform a diverse catalog of mu-
versity, the state of Wyoming, and to the rich tradition sical styles and repertoire that is a reflection of our mis-
of tenor-bass choral singing in the United States. While sion to share joy, embrace diversity, build community,
focusing primarily on the standard tenor-bass chorus and affirm the worth and dignity of all people. Our
repertoire, the Statesmen specialize in music unique to season includes two choral performances and a popu-
the University, state, and region. Membership is open lar cabaret-style fundraiser. Vox Pacifica is a recipient
to any tenor-bass singer enrolled at the University. Stu- of a 2022 Working Washington Grant from the state
dents from all walks of campus life are encouraged to of Washington.
participate in this ensemble. From athletes to valedicto-
rians, leaders in student government, and clubs/frater- Wendy Bloom has spent a lifetime in
nities/activities, the members bring with them a wide the service of choral music. In the early
diversity in backgrounds and interests. days, she taught choir for grades 6-12 in
a private school, acted as director of mu-
Brian C. Murray is the director of choral sic for a large church, and began work-
activities, vocal arts area coordinator, and ing as an oratorio soloist. She moved into conducting
assistant professor of music at the Uni- and teaching voice at Concordia University, Ann Ar-
versity of Wyoming. At UW he conducts bor, while continuing her performance career with a
the Collegiate Chorale and the Singing quartet, SATB, who sang together for seventeen years.
Statesmen and teaches courses in choral conducting. Eventually, Bloom directed the Flint Symphonic Choir,
Murray received a BME from the University of North traveled to Austin to sing with Conspirare, and to Santa
Texas, an MME from The Florida State University, Fe to sing with the Desert Chorale. She now directs Vox
and a DMA in choral conducting from the University Pacifica in Bellingham.
of North Texas.

CHORAL JOURNAL January 2024 Volume 64 Number 5 15