Heritage Choir Concert Celebrates Easter Through Music
April 18-19, 2025 – St. George, UT
Spring and the Easter season are upon us. It is a time of renewal, rebirth, restoration and a reminder of Jesus Christ’s resurrection and His victory over death and sin. Join the Southern Utah Heritage Choir as they celebrate this glorious time of year and the promise of Life Everlasting through music.
This popular annual concert will be held in the historic St. George Tabernacle on Friday, April 18, at 6 PM (note this time change) with a repeat performance on Saturday, April 19, at 2 PM. Admission is free and seating is open to music lovers throughout the community.
Under the masterful direction of Dr. Ken Peterson, the choir will present a thoughtfully created program with each piece a testament to themes of love and sacrifice by our Savior Jesus Christ. Life Everlasting will also showcase the choir’s commitment to excellence and its ability to touch hearts.
The choir and their gifted accompanists Karen Kennedy on the organ and pianist Jennifer Redfearn will provide dynamic and passionate interpretations of such pieces as Forsaken, From Earth to Heaven; Holy, Glorious Everlasting; Savior, Redeemer of My Soul; The Day of Resurrection; He is Risen; Alleluia (women’s chorus); Arise, Shine!; The Ground, and The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning.
Highlights of the evening will also include performances by four gifted young vocalists and recent scholarship award winners.
Melanie Peterson, a senior at Utah Arts Academy, is awarded a $1,000 scholarship. A talented performer with a 3.9 GPA, Melanie draws inspiration from her Mexican heritage and has earned multiple accolades in national competitions. Currently holding the title of Miss Ivins 2024, she continues to shine as a student as well as an artist.
Lydia Ricks, also receiving a $1,000 scholarship, is a senior at Crimson Cliffs High School. With four seasons of performances at Tuacahn Center for the Arts, including lead roles in Annie and Matilda, Lydia has demonstrated remarkable dedication to her craft. She also mentors young performers as a vocal teacher and will serve in the Nauvoo Performing Mission this summer.
Sarah Osness, a senior at Dixie High School, was recognized with a $500 scholarship. With 20 musical theater productions to her credit, Sarah has achieved national recognition, including placing second in the high school musical theater division of a competition in Washington, D.C. She was also an All-State Singer and state finalist in the Utah High School Musical Theater Awards.
Lily Butler, a senior at Desert Hills High School, has received a $500 scholarship. With perfect scores in both regional and state solo and ensemble competitions, Lily has showcased her exceptional vocal talent. She has performed in musical theater workshops in New York City and competed in the Musical Theater Competition of America (MTCA) in Los Angeles, where her team took first place.
“The choir has expanded its celebrated history. From its beginning in the St. George Tabernacle, this all-volunteer musical organization has maintained a rigorous performance schedule through the year and throughout the world,” notes Choir President Geri Rhodes. “In the spring of 2026, we are excited to be moving to our permanent home in the America First Performing Arts Center on the campus of Utah Tech University.”
Visit heritagechoir.org for more information about upcoming programs, opportunities to join the 180-voice Southern Utah Heritage Choir, and the choir’s scholarship program.
