The Austin Community College District Choir departs for New York this week for an experience students will never forget – performing at Carnegie Hall. ACC’s ensemble is among a select few community college choirs chosen to perform at the world-renowned venue this year, following a nationwide community college audition held annually.

“I am absolutely thrilled,” says Katie Walther, a drama major. “I’m sure once we get there and we’re standing on the stage, we’ll get some butterflies!”

Choir Director and Associate Music Professor Jim Shepherd will take 40 students to New York on April 15, with the performance set for April 19. They will perform the Fauré Requiem, a 19^th century work that requires the students to sing in Latin, alongside four other community colleges.

“It’s important for people to see that great things are going on at community colleges,” says Dr. Shepherd. “I’m proud we can bring this type of experience to our students. I hope it will inspire them to want to achieve great things, in music or whatever career they choose.”