At Bismarck State College in Bismarck, N.D., a new group of singers has emerged, captivating the campus with their harmonious tunes. The "Mystic Chorale" stands out not only for its musical talent but also for the unique bond among its members - all of whom are BSC employees.

Bringing People Together Through Music

Dawn Hagerott, a music professor at Bismarck State College, has dedicated her life to music. This year, she took on the role of directing the Mystic Chorale. Each member is an employee at the college, and for Hagerott, it was a way to bring people together not just musically but on a deeper level. "It was something that was just kind of weighing on my heart that, that I just thought we need something like this to bring people together. Not just musically, but just together," she explained.Dean Bellin, an associate professor of technical theater at BSC, was one of the first to sign up. He saw it as a great opportunity to connect with friends and coworkers. "This is just a great opportunity for us to get together as friends and coworkers to just get together and sing and have a good time," he said. Dusting off his vocal cords and meeting new people was an exciting prospect for him. "This is a big campus, and you really get a chance to meet some people that otherwise you wouldn’t normally see," he added.The name "Mystic Chorale" holds a double meaning. As Hagerott explained, "A chorale is a choir, but also, the other sense of just corralling a bunch of people together who are all over the campus on different blocks and just bringing everyone together for one purpose just to share music together."They are now gearing up to share their music with special audiences. The Mystic Chorale will perform at the BSC holiday concert and also plan to go caroling in a few retirement communities. It's a chance to spread the joy they've found through music.You can hear the Mystic Chorale at BSC's annual Holiday Concert next Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the Sidney J. Lee Auditorium. Hagerott is already looking forward to next year and hopes to involve alumni as well.The Mystic Chorale is not just a group of singers; it's a community that brings people together through the power of music. Their performances are a testament to the beauty and unity that can be achieved when people come together for a common cause.