The sound of instruments blend and melodies align as the Choral Union returns to Marshall University’s campus with rehearsals beginning Monday at 7 p.m. in room 150 of Smith Music Hall.

The new Director of Bands Brian Walden will lead the Choral Union as he now joins the forces at Marshall after retiring as a Commanding Officer of the United States Navy Band.

While Walden may be new to the campus he is familiar with the tradition the union beholds and he said he is excited to continue that tradition in the performances.

“It is a fantastic means of bridging the wonderful surrounding communities with the Marshall family,” Walden said. “Plus we get to have fun making great music together in the process.”

After weekly rehearsals, the union’s first performance will be Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m., and the location will be announced at a later date.

The Choral Union welcomes all students and citizens of the community to join the group as they prepare for another year with The Thundering Herd.

College credit will be available upon participation and if interested Walden can be reached by phone at 304-696-2317 or by email at [email protected].

Chantil Foster can be reached at [email protected]