Students, faculty and family members gathered on Nov. 4 in Scooter’s to celebrate the release of the Summit Singers’ first studio album, “Under the Arches.”

Alex Noto, sophomore and club president, said the event’s large turnout made him emotional. Noto added that he was excited to celebrate the group’s hard-earned finished product.

“It feels really surreal to finally have this and be able to put it into the hands of the St. Thomas community,” Noto said. “We’re really proud of all the work that’s gone into it.”

Of the many fans of the Summit Singers, senior Rebekah Nelson has supported the group from the very beginning.

“It’s just crazy how much work they’ve put into it and just how proud they are,” Nelson said. “Day one, I’ve always loved their music.”

Along with the release of the CD, the night included performances from many groups, including Cadenza – St. Thomas’ female a capella group, Summit Singers alumni, and the Singers themselves performing songs from the album.

“It might be a little emotional for me because this is finally something tangible that we can have and a memory that’s going to last a lifetime for everybody,” Noto said.

Noura Elmanssy can be reached at elma7206@stthomas.edu.