Andrew Last (Iowa)
Nordic Choir honors the Lutheran choral tradition while exploring new and innovative choral works that span styles, genres, and composers. Nordic Choir has earned a reputation as one of the premier collegiate choral ensembles in the United States on the strength of captivating and innovative performances. Founded by Sigvart Steen and memorably conducted for 57 years by Weston Noble, previous conductors included Craig Arnold and Allen Hightower.
Since 2017 the choir has been under the direction of Dr. Andrew Last ‘97. Last believes choral music is far more than a vessel for music education and performance. He views his role as facilitating the journey from technical artistry to an emotional awakening, saying, “Great choral music stirs within us a spirit and passion, connecting us in a community of belonging and acceptance.”
Dr. Andrew Last is the Weston Noble Endowed Professor and Director of Choral Activities at Luther College in Decorah, IA where he conducts the Nordic Choir, teaches conducting, and serves as the Artistic Director for Christmas at Luther. Last holds a DMA in choral conducting from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where he was named a Hixon-Lied Fellow. He received his Master of Music from Northern Arizona University and his Bachelor of Arts in music education and voice from Luther College. Ensembles under Last’s direction have been featured at the 2016 and 2022 regional and 2017 and 2025 national ACDA conventions. Last made his Carnegie Hall conducting debut in 2019. A frequent clinician and guest conductor around the United States and abroad, Last has conducted All-State ensembles in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, Texas, and South Dakota.