Two student-run a cappella groups from Grinnell College, Con Brio and G-Tones, performed at the White House on Dec. 5 to help create a festive atmosphere for visitors.
During the holiday season, the White House invites musical groups from across the nation to perform during holiday tours. The Grinnell groups performed various holiday songs, including “Oh, Holy Night” and “Joy to the World.”
“This trip was funded by various offices of the College, but there was also an alum, Ed Senn ’79, who helped to make the trip possible. Ed sang in an a cappella group, Sacred Harp, when he was at Grinnell, so he enjoyed helping us to have this experience,” Peter Aldrich ’15, one of the trip organizers, said.
Leading up to their performance, members of both ensembles shared their excitement via Twitter, using the hashtag “#GCinDC.” Aldrich shared a photo of members Austin Morris ’15 and Yang West ’14 on their flight, along with an update:
“G-Tones and Con Brio on our second flight from Detroit. Next stop: Washington, DC! #GCinDC”
While Thomas Grabinski ’15 tweeted:
“The White House is gorgeous. I wonder who lives here. #GCinDC”
When asked what memory she would take from this experience, Joyce Bartlett ’15 said, “This trip really brought out my pride in being a Grinnellian. We met with some students who were a part of Grinnell-in-Washington, and it made me realize how many opportunities Grinnellians have.”
Student organizers would like to thank President Raynard S. Kington; Joseph P. Bagnoli, Jr., vice-president for enrollment; Michael Sims from the Office of Student Affairs; the Student Government Association; and Senn. “Both groups are extremely grateful for your support,” said Max Herzberg ’14, lead administrator for Con Brio and G-Tones.
