MSU President's Newspaper Column
December 13, 2025
A Festival of Carols brings holiday cheer to campus
The Mayville State University Music Department ushered in the holiday season with its concert, A Festival of Carols, filling the campus with a festive spirit. The program featured beloved Christmas classics performed by a variety of ensembles, showcasing the talent and dedication of Mayville State’s student musicians, as well as their director and accompanist. Following the concert, guests gathered for a warm and joyful Christmas reception, complete with caroling and intimate small-group performances that added an extra touch of holiday magic.
I was among the estimated 200 people who gathered in the Classroom Building Auditorium on Sunday, Dec. 7 to enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays. The stage was beautifully decorated, and students were dressed in formal attire while they shared their musical talents for the delight of all.
The program opened with the women’s choir entering from the back of the auditorium, holding brightly shining candles in front of them and singing “Santa Lucia,” a traditional Scandinavian/Neapolitan song. Lacey Mathiowetz (Mayville State student who plays softball and is a residence hall assistant in addition to being in the choir) led the procession as Lucia, wearing a white gown and a crown of candles on her head to bring light, symbolizing the martyred saint.
The program included instrumental performances of “Do You Hear What I Hear, “Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring,” “The Christmas Song, and “Let It Snow.” Vocal performances by the choir and ensembles included “Carol of the Bells,” Still, Still, Still,” “Hallelujah” (Christmas version), “Breath of Heaven,” “Make Joy!,” “Gesu Bambino,” “Candlelight Carol,” and “We Light a Thousand Candles Bright.”
Audience members were inspired and invited to participate as well during the singing of several traditional Christmas carols and hymns.
This heartwarming event was made possible through the leadership of Dr. Cyril Myers, Jr., Mayville State Assistant Professor of Music and director of the Mayville State Music Department, who is in his first year at Mayville State. His guidance and passion for music inspired an unforgettable afternoon. His talents, along with those of accompanist Julie Twedt were key to helping the students make beautiful music together. I thank them and commend them for their outstanding work.
Special recognition goes to all the students who contributed their time and talent to create a celebration that truly embodied the spirit of the season. Like Lacey, mentioned above, many of these students participate in a number of campus activities and organizations, including athletics. They are making the most of their Mayville State experience by using their many talents and being involved.
Members of the choir were Alexa Barragan, Tali Cornillez, Cole Gesell, Jennifer Hilgemann, Lexi Hoeft, Betany Holter, Jackson Hubbling, Cheyann Johnson, Kuon Kuon, Avery Lessard, Lacy Mathiowetz, Mason Mittag, Micah Musser, Jordyn Pierce, Lillian Phelps, Brielle Rogers, Lily Thomas, Brenneke Tobin, Kami Turner, Victoria Wensaur, Kennedy Weyer, Meaghan Winters, Kate Zdrill. Instrumentalists were Megan Burgi, Jennifer Hilgemann, Bethany Holter, Colten Hurst, Avery Lessard, Hannah Pilon, Willow Pollert, Alexis Restemayer, Brielle Rodgers, Shawn Sola, and Jonathan Spires.
I couldn’t be more Comet Proud of the wonderful things that are happening in the Mayville State Music Department! My first experience with this talented group was during the traditional Ceremony of Remembrance at the Military Honor Garden during Homecoming 2025 - a performance that truly moved me. Since then, my admiration has only grown, and their Christmas concert was yet another shining example of their work.
In his program remarks, Dr. Myers expressed gratitude to the student musicians for “believing in yourselves and taking on the challenges to create joy, community, and development of your minds.” I wholeheartedly echo that sentiment! The dedication and artistry displayed by these students are inspiring, and I look forward to many more outstanding performances from the Mayville State Music Department.
Music brings people together. I personally find joy and happiness in music, and from my perspective, the concert on Dec. 16 was the perfect way to start the holiday season. I wish you joy during this special season and always. Be well.
Because of the generosity of Mayville State alumni and friends, each student who participates in music at Mayville State receives a small participation scholarship. This is such a wonderful way to encourage opportunities for students in pursuit of their academic goals. If you’d like to know more about how you can support the music department and its students, visit www.mayvillestate.edu/MusicMakers.