SEARCY, Ark. — Since 1995, a committee of dedicated A Cappella Chorus alumni have worked to honor Dr. Kenneth Davis, who was founder and director of the group for 35 years at Harding University. Davis was affectionately known by students as “Uncle Bud.”
On July 31, which is also Davis’ birthday, the group will host a ceremony at 12:30 p.m. at the Kenneth Davis Lily Pool to unveil a bronze statue in his likeness. The event is open to the public, and all former A Cappella Chorus members are encouraged to attend and sing during the dedication.
President David B. Burks will lead the welcome and prayer, and the ceremony will include “Peace I Leave With You” by Dr. William Hollaway and “My God and I” by Austris Wihtol, conducted by Dr. Cliff Ganus III, professor of music and director of the chorus. Darrell Chitty, a 1969 A Cappella and Belles and Beaux alumnus, will speak on behalf of the A Cappella Chorus, and Dr. Cliff Ganus, Jr., chancellor of the University, will present the unveiling of the statue. The Davis family will also speak, and the ceremony will conclude with the singing of “The Lord Bless You and Keep You” by Peter Lutkin.
The statue of Davis, sculpted by Ron Moore of Mountain Home, is part of a three-phase plan the A Cappella Chorus alumni have organized, including the recent renovation and renaming of the Kenneth Davis Lily Pool and the creation of a scholarship fund in his name.
In addition to the dedication, the campus will be buzzing with excitement as present and former members of all Harding vocal groups gather for a reunion and recording session July 30 – Aug. 1.
Over the course of the weekend, the group plans to record several spirituals and hymns, including Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” and other pieces. The reunion will begin with registration and a reception in the Reynolds center Friday, July 30, at 6 p.m. and will include several rehearsals and recording sessions, as well as a barbecue supper Saturday night at 5 p.m. for $4 a person.
The reunion and recording sessions are open to all present and former singers of any vocal group, including A Cappella Chorus, Chorale, Chorus, Concert Choir, Belles and Beaux, University Singers, Chamber Singers, Good News Singers, Bel Canto, Belle Canto, Henways, Madrigals, Time of Day, Troubadours, Honor Choir and more.
Visitors are welcome to observe the rehearsals and recording sessions. For more information, please contact the department of music at
501-279-4343.
