The Acapella Express chorus, formerly known as the Sweet Adelines of Fargo-Moorhead, is set to celebrate its 70th anniversary with a special concert at 3 p.m. on December 6, 2025, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Moorhead. This milestone not only marks decades of musical excellence but also emphasizes the enduring spirit of sisterhood and community service that has defined the group since its inception in 1955.
The chorus began as a response to the vibrant men’s barbershop scene in Fargo-Moorhead. Women, eager to share in the joy of singing, formed their own chapter of Sweet Adelines International, an organization founded in 1945 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Current member Audra Freeman noted, “Their wives thought, ‘Our husbands are out having fun singing, we want to do it, too.’”
Over the years, the Acapella Express has evolved, both in name and style. Originally, members sported traditional attire reminiscent of the 1950s, complete with matching dresses and wigs. Today, while individual expression is embraced, the performances still reflect unity and harmony. The chorus has grown, welcoming hundreds of women who share a passion for singing and community engagement.
With approximately 30,000 members worldwide, Sweet Adelines fosters a tight-knit network among its members. Freeman explained, “You can go anywhere in the world, and if they have a Sweet Adelines chorus and go to their rehearsal, you’re like family.” The Fargo-Moorhead chapter is part of the Northern Lights Region 6, which includes choruses across North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin.
The group has garnered numerous accolades, including top-five regional finishes and an impressive #2 Small Chorus ranking internationally. They have performed on stages in cities like London and San Antonio, showcasing their talent and dedication to barbershop music. Director Megan Argall, who has been with the chorus since high school, emphasized the importance of the legacy they carry. “I know there is a rich tradition of history,” she said. “For everybody, it’s so much more than singing.”
The upcoming anniversary concert promises to be a celebration of not only their musical journey but also their impact on the community. The event will feature a mix of music, storytelling, and archival photos, as well as highlights from their long-standing commitment to charity initiatives, including the breast cancer fundraiser known as It’s a Chick Thing.
Members of Acapella Express come from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared love for music. For many, the chorus offers a sense of belonging and personal growth. Diane Wicklund, the longest-serving member who joined in 1990, recalled how the chorus became a vital part of her life. “It was the only thing I really did for myself,” she said, reflecting on how singing provided an escape from daily stresses.
New members like Brittany Schwebach, who had no prior choir experience, highlight the welcoming nature of the group. “Everyone was so welcoming and said, ‘Come! We’ll teach you,’” she recalled. The supportive environment fosters not only musical skills but also personal development and confidence. Freeman noted, “The education beyond the musical and the skill-building and the confidence it builds in women is amazing.”
As the Acapella Express prepares for its anniversary concert, the energy is palpable. The event is an invitation for past members and the community to join in celebrating decades of harmony and connection. With no admission fee, attendees are encouraged to make a freewill offering. Former members are also invited to participate in select performances, reinforcing the sense of family that has always characterized the chorus.
This milestone is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Acapella Express, a group that has harmonized voices and created lasting bonds for 70 years. As they gather to celebrate their journey, the chorus stands as a beacon of community spirit and musical artistry, proving that the love of singing can indeed transform lives.
