Back home

Suzanne and I walked in the house around 4:30 central time. We began our journey from Italy at 6:30 AM yesterday (41 1/2 hours). I understand that everyone is now home, and while the trip had a shotgun ending, it was the experience of a lifetime.

I love this choir, their spirit, and each individual who contributes to the work of A Cappella Choir. We are happy to be reunited with our children and back in the land of Mountain Dew and Chick-fil-A (had some for lunch); still, we will miss spending time with these students, and we will truly miss our graduates as they move on to the next phase in life.

The traditions and accomplishments of A Cappella Choir are rich; it is an ensemble that has impressed audiences around the world for decades. But it will always be remembered that the choir of 2008-2009 was invited to perform at Notre Dame, Chartres, San Gimignano, Assisi, and the Vatican, and we will remember that they performed beautifully. Indeed, this choir has written an exciting chapter in the history of A Cappella; they have enriched the traditions of Samford Music for generations to come.

Still in Newark

So it turns out when you travel from Europe to the States, it can get complicated. We came from Rome to Newark on one flight (delayed three hours), but will leave by six different flights. Continental was great working with us to get almost everyone back tonight, but five of us will spend the night and head out early tomorrow.

I understand the group on the 5:30 flight and the one to Houston are in route or have arrived. Others are delayed and will arrive to Atlanta or Bham tonight. The shuttle is working with us to make certain everyone has a way from Atlanta to Samford. We have a lot of folks helping, and it is impressive to see the Samford team working together.

Newark

We just touched down in Newark. We'll taxi to the gate, head thru customs, and then see if we can still catch the plane to Atlanta. We hope to see all of you soon. 3:25 eastern time.

Friday

We have boarded the plane in Italy, but we are delayed two hours and have another hour anticipated as they replace a relay on the hydraulic system. We are happy that they are being thorough and the plane will be in good working order, however, we are growing concerned about making our connection in Newark. I will post an update on the blog as soon as we reach the airport.

Thursday

Today was all we had hoped. We toured the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and the ceiling painted by Michelangelo.

By the afternoon we were in St. Peter's preparing to sing mass. This is the largest church in the world, and no matter how many times you enter, it is still surprising.

The group from Samford's University Fellows program was also spending their last day in Rome. They came over and joined us for this eventful concert in Samford A Cappella history.

The students sang beautifully, and we received several kind compliments from the clergy.

After the concert the tour company treated us to a dinner theatre with the music of Italy. The choir added to the occasion with a spiritual and Dr. Hopkins sang an aria.

It was a fun night, but we had to call it a night to get packed and rested for our journey home.

Today we sang at St. Peter's. Wow! Students and alumni will talk about this tour for decades. Our students will certainly remember sweet moments in concert and the beautiful cities. While the tour may have been defined ny the big opportunities in Paris and Rome, our group seemed to favor Assisi, San Gimignano, and Chartres.

Again, we are ever so grateful to those who supported this trip and the families we have missed while here. We look forward to telling you every detail upon our return.

I'll try to keep you posted on our progress as we make our way home, and we will attach more photos when we are back.

Wednesday

Matt Powell and Whitney Cornutt


Matt Powell and Allison Krebs


We are now in Rome. We toured the Colosseum and the ruins of the Roman forum, then headed over to see the area around the Spanish Steps.

After lots of sightseeing, we rehearsed at Rome Baptist Church. Our guide David took us for a quick bite of pizza, and we returned to sing a couple songs on the piazza and then a time of worship and music in this lovely church.

The church is made up of folks from many nations and continents. It was good to travel so far and find this sweet congregation of Baptists.

After the concert we had a few moments to see some of the favorite stops by night (Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Pantheon...), and, of course, we continued our search for the best gelato.

Tuesday

We spent most of the day in Assisi. This gorgeous city is situated on the side of a mountain overlooking the beautiful Umbrian valley. St. Francis chose this location and his following became known as the Franciscan Order.

We sang in the famous Basilica where so many pilgrims travel. It was a beautiful service.

For many of us, this has been the favorite stop. We had a great hotel, swimming pool, fantastic shopping, and unbelievable views.

After the concert we traveled to Rome and moved into our space at the convent of Suor Carmelite.