Changing Seasons

When considering themes for the March program, it suddenly occurred to me that there are no requirements to theme all concerts. Wouldn’t it be refreshing that occasionally we not theme a concert?  It would give every piece the opportunity to be accepted on its own merit.  So, this concert has no theme.  The compositions performed will be contrasting in musical style and text! 

The two major works being performed are The Lamentations of Jeremiah, written by Argentine composer Alberto Ginastera, and Prayers from the Ark by English composer Ivor Davies. With quite a contrast in musical style and text between these two mid-twentieth century compositions, the Lamentations includes verses from the Book of Lamentations that mourn the destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon in 586 B.C.  Much more lyrical in style and text, Davies musically sets the beautiful poem set Prayers from the Ark by French composer Carmen Bernos de Gasztold. The Prayers include beautiful settings of music from the perspective of the inhabitants (animals) of Noah’s Ark.

This exciting program gives the listener the opportunity to hear many different musical styles and texts. Other musical highlights include Psalmus 93 by Nystedt, How Can I Keep from Singing by Staheli, All That Hath Life and Breath by Clausen, Daemon Irrepit Callidus by Orban, Somewhere (from West Side Story) arr. Edgerton, Tshotsholosa arr. Ames, Walking on the Green Grass by Hennagin, and Horizons by Van Dijk.

We hope to see you there!
Dr. Don Schade, Artistic Director