Since 2009, the ND Legislative Choir has been a unique and meaningful part of the state's legislative session, providing music for the annual Memorial Service that honors former legislators who have passed away. The choir, originally formed as a Senate-based, mixed-voice ensemble, has evolved over the years, reflecting changes in membership and musical talent within the legislature.
The Origins of the Choir
Drawing from his background in choral music, the idea for a Senate-based musical group came from North Dakota Senator Erbele, who recognized the musical talent among his colleagues and saw an opportunity to make the Memorial Service more personal. Prior to the choir’s formation, music for the service was provided by individuals outside the legislature.
“When the [2003] session came around, I felt that there should be enough talent within the Senate to provide the music for the memorial service and the leader put me in charge of putting the program together,” said Sen. Erbele. “The 03, 05 [sessions] were done by solos and instrumentals by Senate members. In the 07 session I formed a men’s group, six of us, and in the 09 session we began the choir.” Membership in the group was based on a connection to the Senate, with many participants being senators, their spouses, or committee clerks.
A Legacy of Performance
Each legislative session since 2009 (except for the COVID-impacted 2021 session) has featured three choir performances at the Memorial Service: one after the invocation, one before the main address, and a benediction hymn. The choir's impact expanded in 2011 when the House formed its own choir for their Memorial Service.
Sen. Erbele explained, “The Governor’s Prayer Breakfast is always the week after the Memorial Service and in the 2013 session we put the two choirs together, and I directed that joint choir for the Prayer Breakfast for the 13, 15, 17, & 19 sessions.” In 2017, the Legislative Choir also performed for the ND Governor’s Awards for the Arts at the Heritage Center’s Russell Reid Auditorium.
Challenges and Adaptations
Like many long-standing traditions, the Legislative Choir has faced challenges in recent years. The shifting composition of the legislature has made it more difficult to maintain a balanced group, particularly as fewer women have served in the Senate. In the 2023 session, a full mixed choir was not feasible, leading to the formation of an all-male ensemble. This adaptation will continue in the 2025 session.
“Elections are an ever-changing dynamic,” said Sen. Erbele. “For example, in the last two election cycles we have 21 new Senators out of a body of 47 members.”
Notable Repertoire and Recognition
The choir’s repertoire has evolved over time, with selections rotated to keep performances fresh while preserving the group’s signature sound. Two pieces that have been revisited in multiple sessions include “They Shall Soar Like Eagles” and Tommy Dorsey’s “Precious Lord.” Accompanists for the choir have included notable musicians such as former Senator Carolyn Nelson and Levi Andrist, whose grandfather was a senator.
Of the choir’s setlist, Sen. Erbele noted, “We try not to repeat more than one of them in the next session and like to have a couple of sessions go by before we repeat a selection.”
While the choir has never received formal recognition, it has been widely appreciated for embodying the spirit of unity within the legislature. “Several have remarked through the years, and especially at the prayer breakfast, that it is a remarkable picture of what politics and life in general can be like: Men and women, Democrats and Republicans, House and Senate, all singing in harmony,” said Sen. Erbele.
Looking Ahead
Despite challenges in recruitment, the Legislative Choir remains an enduring part of the North Dakota Legislature’s tradition. With another men’s group set to perform in the upcoming session, the choir continues its mission of honoring past legislators while bringing together current members in a shared musical experience. Whether as a mixed ensemble or a men’s chorus, the Legislative Choir stands as a testament to the power of music in building community and honoring history.
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