Each semester, approximately 100 students commit themselves
to participate in Illinois State University's oldest predominantly Black organization, The Interdenominational Youth Choir
(IYC), in addition to their studies and other campus affiliations. (Note: the choir is open to all students, regardless
of race, creed, color, or religion.) The choir was organized in 1970 by Donald Mosely. It emerged from a group
of students who held a Sunday morning service each week on ISU's campus. IYC is presently composed of students from
all religious denominations and affiliations.
IYC members are very proud of IYC. This is shown by
their loyalty and devotion to the choir. The choir rehearses each week and has at least one major concert on campus
each semester. In addition to the aforementioned semesterly concerts, IYC sings for campus activities, at local
churches, at other state universities, and has done concerts in numerous parts of Illinois. Auditions for the choir
are held the first two weeks of every semester and all ISU students who enjoy singing and love the Lord are welcomed to join.
IYC's constitution specifies that the choir will give students
an opportunity to meet new people, develop their talents, broaden their interests, and constructively volunteer their leisure
time. These goals are met through IYC's exchange program with other universities and social functions which serve to
bring members closer together. The social functions include such activities as bowling, volleyball, basketball, picnics,
and visiting amusement parks.
IYC is a total student organization, organized and managed
by students. The choir does have a Faculty/Staff Adivsor and Fiscal Agent who are ISU faculty and/or personnel and who
serve as liaisons between the choir and university administration.
The choir has a repertoire that includes, anthems, spirituals,
contemporary music, and of course gospel music.
IYC is love. For its members, it offers fellowship and
a religious outlet. Whenever and wherever the choir sings, it lives up to it's theme which is "Make A Joyful Noise".
This is IYC.
