Chosen Few to perform in Emmetsburg

By RENEE WEBB, Globe editor
Posted April 17, 2003

EMMETSBURG - The four-member Gospel music group Chosen Few will present a 7 p.m. show at Emmetsburg Catholic School's Corrigan Hall on May 1.

"This will be their third year with us," noted Jean Hyslop, the school principal who added that a local family personally knows the group.

With the event sponsored by the school board, Hyslop pointed out that many have helped make the concert possible including a parishioner that has offered an individual donation for the performance. This is a fundraiser for Emmetsburg Catholic School.

The principal noted that the past two shows by Chosen Few were well attended and drew many people from the surrounding area.

And the performance is not just music. The performance also delivers an inspirational message. One member of the group, Brian Arnold, usually shares his story about a near-death experience that left him with one arm completely paralyzed.

"He is the piano player and you wouldn't even know that he is playing with just one hand. He will share about how his faith helped him through," said Hyslop. "They also share their stories about how they came to be a part of the group."

Founded in 1992, Chosen Few was originally based out of Branson, Mo. where they were Silver Dollar City's resident Gospel quartet. In 1999, Chosen Few signed a national recording contract with Chariot Records out of Nashville. This year they aligned themselves with Century II Promotions, also out of Nashville.

Chosen Few has been featured on the 700 Club and the Odyssey Network. They tour about 250 dates per year.

Hyslop said that this is a concert that the whole family can attend.

"It's wonderful. You will want to get up on your chair and sing with them," added Hyslop, who encouraged not only families but also youth groups to attend the concert. "It is good, clean entertainment with a Gospel message that makes you feel good. We feel very fortunate to have them here each year."

Tickets, which may be purchased at the door, are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Chosen Few tapes and CDs will be available at the concert.