1912-1943 - The Beginning:
The St. Olaf Choir was founded in 1912, originally as the "St. Olaf Lutheran Choir" under the leadership of F. Melius Christiansen. In its early stages the choir only performed at local churches and special events at the college. The choir's traditional Christmas Song-Service began in 1912, and is increasing in popularity year over year. Its first national tour of the East Coast in 1920, and its first international tour to Germany in 1930, earned the choir critical acclaim and world recognition.
1943-1968:
Under the leadership of Olaf C. Christiansen, son of F. Melius Christiansen, the St. Olaf Choir continued to grow musically by adding more modern, spiritual, American folksong, and Renaissance literature to the group's already extensive repertoire base. Olaf C. Christiansen, sharing the same beliefs as his father, upheld the traditions and practices of the St. Olaf Choir, setting in stone the foundation of the choir.
1968-1990:
The St. Olaf Choir enjoyed twelve international tours with its third musical director, Kenneth Jennings (an alumnus of St. Olaf College and a former member of the St. Olaf Choir). During this time, the St. Olaf Choir toured in Europe and Asia, as well as the US. In 1988, the choir became one of only five choirs invited to the Olympic Arts Festival in Seoul, South Korea.
1990-Present:
Currently under the leadership of Anton Armstrong, who is also an alumnus of St. Olaf College, the St. Olaf Choir remains very active. Each year, the choir tours nationally and/or internationally. Today, you can find an extensive collection of the choir's recordings online at St. Olaf Records.
