By Jane Bianchi
Contributing Reviewer

Chi Rho, the university's men's Christian a cappella ensemble, invites all students to their largest performance of the year, aptly titled Big Concert, at 8 p.m. April 27 in Wait Chapel.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the extravaganza, first held in 1992. Chi Rho, their named drawn from the first two letters in the Greek spelling of the word "Christ," hopes to entertain as well as inspire its audience with a mixture of old and new songs, skits, talks and a music video.

Usually pulling in 500-700 spectators, the Big Concert delivers special effects, slide shows and other surprises. Past stunts have included repelling from the ceiling of Brendle Recital Hall, creating a video about one member's addiction to swedish fish and imitating the TV show Survivor.

In addition to providing laughs, Chi Rho will also use debut two to three new songs, including a remix of the DC Talk song, "In The Light," rearranged by former Chi Rho member and current Divinity School student Brad Stevenson.

Swedish fish-lover junior John Bruns is very excited to be opening the show with the music video that he has spent 20-plus hours editing. Accompanying the upbeat song "Dive," this comical video includes parodies of country music, rap videos and the Backstreet Boys.

Bruns warns viewers to be prepared for some freestyle dance moves by a certain member of the group and perhaps some surprise alumni appearances.

Though they like to have fun, members of the group are serious musicians that have gained much success through tight harmonies and sincere devotion. Over the past 11 years, Chi Rho has churned out five albums and has performed at churches, weddings, various university events and even the White House.

Released in early 2001, their latest album, Free, has generated two nominations from CASA, the Contemporary A Cappella Society of America. One nomination went to the group for Best Male Collegiate A Cappella and another went to Matt Johnson for Best Soloist on the cover song "In Your Eyes."

Excluding their week-long tour through the Detroit/Chicago area starting May 11, Big Concert is the final event for the six senior members of the group: Matt Johnson, Derek West, Ben Alston, Aaron Miller, Ty Webb and Jeff Bloom. The men have prepared intensely during the past three weeks, and Bruns encourages students to come see the product of their hard work by adding, "We hope to provide awesome music, hilarious entertainment and spiritual inspiration as we respond to the love and grace of God."