A choral reflection for Delta State University

Although I am in Duluth for meetings and performances, I was thinking about the Delta State University shooting yesterday. I contacted my childhood friend from Memphis, Dr. Nicholaus B. Cummins, the former Director of Choral Activities of Delta State University (he just took a new job at Northwestern State University in Louisiana this summer), and he sent the message below. Delta State University, located in Cleveland, Miss., is only 115 miles south of Memphis, my hometown.

Here is Dr. Cummins statement:

"For the previous four years, I had the privilege of conducting the choirs at Delta State University in Cleveland, Miss. I was selected to take a new position at a school in Louisiana, but was thrilled that Dr. Adam Potter was chosen as the new Director of Choral Activities at Delta State University. He has already done marvelous work with all the students at DSU. Today I was stunned at this campus shooting that occurred at DSU. Cleveland is a small college town that loves to support all aspects of campus life. Dr. Potter is locked into his office and the students are huddled in classrooms waiting for safety [Update: Delta State University has announced the lockdown has been lifted]. I pray that Cleveland and Delta State University are safe and peace is found soon. I hope this setting of Eriks Ešenvalds' O Salutaris Hostia by the 2013 Delta State University Chorale will serve as a signal of peace in this tragic time."

My heart immediately melted after listening to DSU sing the opening minute and change. That soaring, piercingly beautiful treble duet will hopefully help touch the hearts of those affected by this unfathomable atrocity.

Here is the translation of the very appropriate text.

O saving Victim, opening wide

The gate of Heaven to us below;

Our foes press hard on every side;

Thine aid supply; thy strength bestow.

To thy great name be endless praise,

Immortal Godhead, One in Three.

O grant us endless length of days,

In our true native land with thee.

Amen.