Viterbo University offers a wide range of clubs around campus. the Lumen will use this section to highlight a campus club around issue. As a new addition to the Lumen, we would like to thank you for allowing us to shine some light on clubs run by students, for students, just as the Lumen is.
According to Lou Xiong, the founder and music director of Vive Voce, the club is, “an auditioned a Cappella ensemble dedicated to expanding our horizons into the instrumental music world. Our group provides a professional ensemble experience for Viterbo students while enriching both the campus and greater La Crosse community through performance and outreach. Beyond music, we strive to stay involved in non-musical campus and community events to show our support for all areas of student life. Vive Voce not only values musicianship and professionalism, but also community engagement and connection.”
Vive Voce is dedicated to exploring a variety of music genres and providing a diverse and musical experience. The club performs all around La Crosse, at places such as Rolling Hills Nursing Home, and here on campus. They plan on hosting a cabaret later this year. Vive Voce meets every Friday from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in the choir room and is not recruiting at the moment.
When asked what sets Vive Voce apart from other clubs on campus, Xiong said this: “We bring music enrichment and education to campus, offering a collaborative environment where members can strengthen their musicianship, improve music-reading skills, and gain valuable ensemble experience. We also provide unique performance opportunities both on and off campus, allowing students to share their talents in a professional yet supportive setting.”
Vive Voce is also a fairly new club, having only been around for three years. Xiong is the founder and starter of this club, serving as the current music director, and was president for two years. When Xiong was asked how Vive Voce was started, he said this: “When I transferred to Viterbo, I noticed that there weren’t any student-led music ensembles. As someone passionate about collaboration and vocal performance, I wanted to create a space for students to make music together in a close-knit, family-like environment.”
When asked to reflect on his club and what he enjoyed about being a part of Vive Voce so far, Xiong said, “My favorite thing has been the family that has formed through Vive Voce. We not only rehearse together but also support one another in our personal lives and other artistic pursuits. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how everyone continues to show up, even after long, demanding weeks, to create something beautiful together. The dedication and heart of this group make all the difference.”
Xiong also stated the importance of creating a long-lasting club. He stated, “I worked with interested students and supportive faculty to establish Vive Voce and ensure its long-term success. I also saw a need for more music enrichment on campus and wanted to help fill that gap while giving musicians and singers a creative outlet to grow and connect.” The club holds auditions at the beginning of every school year and encourages those who have a drive and passion for singing in an ensemble to try out for the club.
