Purdue Varsity Glee Club Returns to Syracuse on April 17
Purdue Varsity Glee Club Brings Over a Century of Musical Excellence to Syracuse
Chautauqua-Wawasee is proud to welcome back the Purdue Varsity Glee Club for a special performance on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 7:30 PM at the Wawasee High School Auditorium.
This return performance continues a cherished tradition, bringing one of the nation’s most celebrated collegiate vocal ensembles back to the Syracuse community for an evening of outstanding musical artistry.
A Legacy of Excellence Since 1893
Founded in 1893, the Purdue Varsity Glee Club has built and maintained its reputation as the nation’s premier collegiate glee club for more than 130 years. Cincinnati Pops Orchestra conductor Erich Kunzel once declared them “still the number one Glee Club in the country.”
The ensemble’s distinguished history includes performances at six presidential inaugurations, appearances at Carnegie Hall, and concerts at venues across the United States and abroad. As musical ambassadors for Purdue University, members of the Glee Club represent a wide range of academic disciplines while balancing rigorous studies with an unwavering commitment to musical excellence.
Under the direction of William E. Griffel and Scott Hines, the ensemble performs an eclectic repertoire that includes gospel, jazz, contemporary selections, classical works, and patriotic music, often enhanced by their signature vocal arrangements.
Featured Ensembles and Musical Variety
The April 17 concert will feature the full Purdue Varsity Glee Club along with four specialty ensembles, each offering its own distinctive sound:
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BaNaNa
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Flashbacks
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Roots
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Top of the Class
These groups bring a range of styles to the stage. Come enjoy 1950s nostalgia and barbershop classics to contemporary vocal jazz, creating a dynamic and engaging concert experience.
Event Details and Tickets
Date: Friday, April 17, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM (Doors open at 7:00 PM)
Location: Wawasee High School Auditorium
1 Warrior Path, Suite 1
Syracuse, IN 46567
Tickets:
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$25 for adults
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$15 for students
Tickets are available now and may be purchased through Eventbrite by clicking HERE.
For more information about the Purdue Varsity Glee Club, click HERE.
As an added treat…
There is a ticketholder discount for dining at the Pier & Back Porch Restaurant! Save your tickets to the Purdue Varsity Glee Club performance. Before the concert on the night of April 17th, a 15% discount will be extended to event ticketholders at the Pier and Back Porch restaurant in the Oakwood Resort.
* The 15% discount will not be valid on any purchases of alcoholic beverages and is only applicable on regularly priced menu items. Digital copies of tickets will be accepted when shown to your server.
About Chautauqua-Wawasee
Chautauqua-Wawasee is a volunteer-driven local nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching community life through high-quality programming in the arts, education, faith, and recreation. The organization continues the historic Chautauqua mission of bringing people together across generations through experiences that educate, inspire, and entertain. Learn more HERE.
