Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
SYRACUSE - Chautauqua-Wawasee will welcome back the Purdue Varsity Glee Club for a special performance on Friday, April 17 at 7:30 p.m. in the Wawasee High School Auditorium.
This tradition brings one of America's most celebrated collegiate vocal ensembles back to the Syracuse community for another evening of musical artistry, according to a news release from Chautauqua-Wawasee.
Founded in 1893, the Purdue Varsity Glee Club has earned and maintained its reputation as the nation's premier collegiate glee club for more than 130 years, prompting Cincinnati Pops Orchestra Conductor Erich Kunzel to declare them “still the number one Glee Club in the country!"
The Glee Club's history includes performances at six presidential inaugurations, Carnegie Hall and venues across the globe. As Purdue University's musical ambassadors, these students from diverse academic disciplines balance studies with an commitment to musical excellence under the guidance of directors William E. Griffel and Scott Hines, the release states. The ensemble performs an eclectic repertoire spanning gospel, jazz, contemporary hits, classical pieces and patriotic songs.
The April 17 concert will showcase the full ensemble alongside four specialty groups - BaNaNa, Flashbacks, Roots and Top of the Class - each bringing distinct musical styles from 1950s nostalgia to barbershop classics and contemporary vocal jazz.
Chautauqua-Wawasee is a volunteer-driven local nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching community life through world-class programming in the arts, education, faith and recreation. Chautauqua-Wawasee continues the historic Chautauqua mission of bringing people together across generations through experiences that educate, inspire and entertain, according to the release.
The performance will take place at Wawasee High School Auditorium, 1 Warrior Path, Suite 1, Syracuse. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at ChautauquaWawasee.org.
Online ticket prices are $33.85 (includes a $3.85 fee) for reserved seats, $25.31 (includes a $3.31 fee) for general admission and $12.51 (includes a $2.51 fee) for students.
For more information about the Purdue Varsity Glee Club Syracuse performance and to purchase tickets online, visit https://www.chautauquawawasee.org/purdue-varsity-glee-club-syracuse-april-17-2026/
You can also purchase tickets at the door the night of the performance.
