Do you love beautiful music brought right to your doorstep?
The Golden Chords is a small string ensemble from Union College that play hymns and contemporary worship music both in Lincoln and at churches all around the Midwest. It was started 20 years ago by previous Union professor Dr. Tom Shepherd, and has since been led by Dr. Edward Allen, chair of the Division of Religion, who participates as a cellist. The 2017-18 group also included Jeffery Pike (violin), Christianna Nesmith (violin), and Melissa Burton 2017 grad and staff member (piano).
“The churches appreciate good quality music and the Union College family showing their support,” Dr. Allen said.
In March 2018, the Golden Chords traveled out to churches in Alliance and Scottsbluff, Neb. On their way, they made stops at Chimney Rock and Carhenge, a tribute to England’s Stonehenge made from junked cars. The students that accompany Dr. Allen enjoy reaching out to the rural churches to share their gift of music and connect with prospective students and alumni.
If you’re interested in hearing this group play at your church, email Dr. Allen at ed.allen@ucollege.edu for more information.
By: Zakeya Swenson, student writer