Blackhawks’ ‘National Anthem’ singer Jim Cornelison set for Soldier Field gig

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Chicago rugby — and Blackhawks fans — take note: Popular classical New Zealand trio SOL3 MIO and Chicago opera singer Jim Cornelison will perform their countries’ national anthems when the New Zealand All Blacks and USA Eagles meet at Soldier Field on Nov. 1. It’s the first game in the U.S. for the reigning IRB Rugby World Cup champion New Zealanders since 1980.

Comprised of tenor brothers Pene and Amitai Pati and cousin Moses Mackay, a baritone, SOL3 MIO gained fame in New Zealand in late 2012 when they appeared on national television.

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Cornelison, known for his rousing renditions of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” is in his seventh season as the Chicago Blackhawks’ full-time anthem singer.

He regularly performs at other sports events in and around the Chicago area.

NBC will televise the match with a 2:30 p.m. kickoff time.

AP

Contributing: Miriam Di Nunzio, Chicago Sun-Times

Posted Oct. 15, 2014.