BEREA, KY – Berea College’s Homecoming Weekend will fill the air with music this Friday through Sunday, featuring five free musical events showcasing the college’s diverse ensembles and welcoming alumni back to campus.
The musical celebration begins Friday evening and continues through Sunday evening, offering performances ranging from Appalachian folk traditions to gospel music, classical choral works, and mariachi.
Friday: Folk Roots Ensemble
The Folk Roots Ensemble kicks off the weekend Friday, November 21, with a homecoming concert at 8 p.m. at the Loyal Jones Appalachian Center, 205 N. Main St. Alumni are invited to a dinner and gathering beginning at 6 p.m., with the concert at 8 p.m. free and open to the public.
The Folk Roots Ensemble celebrates the rich musical heritage of Appalachia, performing traditional ballads, fiddle tunes, and mountain songs that have been passed down through generations.
Saturday: Black Music Ensemble
Saturday, November 22, brings the Black Music Ensemble Homecoming Concert at 2 p.m. at Union Church, 206 Chestnut St. The afternoon performance features soulful, spirited music that uplifts and unites, with songs of praise, resilience, and joy. BME alumni are especially invited to join current students for this celebration of African American musical traditions.
Sunday: Three Musical Events
Sunday, November 23, offers three distinct musical experiences.
The morning begins with the Concert Choir and Chamber Singers Homecoming Service at 10:30 a.m. at Union Church. This special service features the Berea College Homecoming Choir joining voices with the Union Church Choir for an uplifting celebration of music and community.
The afternoon continues with the Bel Canto Treble Singers Homecoming Concert at 3 p.m. in Gray Auditorium, Presser Hall. The treble choir will perform a varied program showcasing the vocal talents of Berea College students.
The weekend concludes with the Mariachi Ensemble at 6 p.m., also in Gray Auditorium, rounding out a full day of diverse musical offerings.
About Berea College Music
All concerts are free and open to the public. The Homecoming Music Weekend is part of Berea College’s broader homecoming celebration, which includes athletic events, reunions, and campus tours throughout the weekend.
Berea College’s Department of Music offers a wide range of ensemble experiences for students, from traditional Appalachian music to classical choral works, jazz, and world music traditions. Many concerts may be livestreamed on the Berea College Music Vimeo channel at vimeo.com/bereacollegemusic.
For more information about Berea College music events, visit berea.edu/music or call 859-985-3000.
IF YOU GO
What: Berea College Homecoming Music Weekend
When:
- Friday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m. – Folk Roots Ensemble
- Saturday, Nov. 22, 2 p.m. – Black Music Ensemble
- Sunday, Nov. 23, 10:30 a.m. – Concert Choir & Chamber Singers (Homecoming Service)
- Sunday, Nov. 23, 3 p.m. – Bel Canto Treble Singers
- Sunday, Nov. 23, 6 p.m. – Mariachi Ensemble
Where:
- Loyal Jones Appalachian Center, 205 N. Main St. (Folk Roots)
- Union Church, 206 Chestnut St. (Black Music Ensemble, Concert Choir)
- Gray Auditorium, Presser Hall (Bel Canto, Mariachi)
Admission: Free and open to the public
Livestream: Many events may be streamed at vimeo.com/bereacollegemusic
More Info: berea.edu/music or 859-985-3000