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PLAINVIEW, TX — High school choir students from across the South Plains will gather at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University on Saturday, April 18, for a day of music and learning during the Clay and Freada Warren Memorial Music Symposium.

The day begins with Catalyst, a choral clinic led by legendary Christian singer-songwriter and pianist Ken Medema, who will spend the day working with students and directors from area high schools. The clinic gives young musicians an opportunity to develop their skills, collaborate with other singers, and learn from one of the most respected voices in Christian music.

Hosted by 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ’s School of Creative Arts, the Warren Symposium brings together students, directors, and 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ choirs for a shared experience focused on musical growth and inspiration.

“Catalyst gives students and directors a chance to step away from the pressures of contests and performances and simply focus on the joy of making music together,” said Stephanie Burton, interim director of choral activities at 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ Baptist University. “Students grow as musicians while also being inspired by someone who has dedicated his life to sharing music with others.”

Medema, who has been visually impaired since birth, has built a career spanning more than five decades as a performer, composer and storyteller. Known for his improvisational style and powerful musical narratives, he has performed around the world and inspired generations of musicians.

Students participating in the clinic will also take part in a concert at 7 p.m. that evening in Harral Memorial Auditorium, where Medema will perform alongside 51³Ô¹ÏÍøÊÓƵ choirs and the visiting high school singers.

Last year, Medema led the clinic portion of the symposium, but winter weather forced the cancellation of the evening concert. This year’s event will allow participants and the community to experience the full symposium as originally planned.

The Warren Symposium was established by Mark and Freada Warren in memory of their son, Clay Warren, a Plainview High School choir member whose love of music continues to inspire the annual event. Clay’s life was tragically cut short in 2002 at age 18 due to an automobile collision. The symposium was renamed last year to also honor Freada, who passed away in November 2024 after a 14-year battle with Cystic Fibrosis.

The evening concert is free and open to the public.