While many students were hosting graduation celebrations Sunday, more than 20 Bismarck High School graduates were packing their bags.

BHS choir director Michael Seil and the BHS Concert Choir kicked off their weeklong tour of Boston on Monday. Of the choir's 55 members, about half are graduates, Seil said.

Wednesday night, the choir sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" for a Boston Red Sox baseball game at Fenway Park in Boston.

Jeff Horan, who has been a member of the BHS choir for three years, said the Red Sox crowd appreciated their rendition of the national anthem.

"After we sang, the people gave us a standing ovation." Horan said. "Having 38,000 people clap for you will give you a couple of vibrations in your chest."

Since then, the choir has been recognized by several people who saw them sing at the game, Seil said.

On a whale-watching tour near Gloucester, Mass., on Thursday, the choir was complimented by a couple who saw their Red Sox performance.

Seil said he began planning this tour nearly two years ago because choirs must apply to sing at Major League Baseball games well in advance.

The choir, this year's Governor's Chorus, had to submit an audition tape and letters of recommendation from the state's congressional delegation and Gov. John Hoeven.

Their Boston tour also includes performances at the South Boston Pier and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.

In addition to "The Star-Spangled Banner," the choir sings "Hark, I Hear the Harps Eternal" and an Edwin Fissinger adaptation of "America the Beautiful."

The BHS choir takes a student-funded trip every two years, Seil said.

"It's been a great time," he said. "The best part about this trip is the kids. They've been absolutely wonderful."

(Reach reporter Alyssa Schafer at 250-8264 or alyssa.schafer@;bismarcktribune.com.)