Neighbor News
Fairfield County Chorale presents Americana
Join the FCC for a concert of American choral music, both a cappella and with piano.
On Saturday, March 12, at 7:30PM, the Fairfield County Chorale brings their 100 voices to the unique tradition of American choral music featuring selections by Copland, Lauridsen, Whitacre, Hogan, and Connecticut’s own Charles Ives, as well as, music from choral traditions such as spirituals and shape note singing.
Stylistic diversity is the foundation of the concert: from the rousing patriotism of Connecticut composer Charles Ives; Aaron Copland’s beautiful songbook, “Old American Songs;” Morten Lauridsen’s mystical, “O Magnum Mysterium;” current choral music superstars Eric Whitacre’s “Lux Aurumque,”and Randall Thompson‘s “Alleluia,” to the rich spirituals of Moses Hogan featuring “Motherless Child” and Nigerian-born Fela Sowande’s “Heaven Bells are Ringin’”.
“The music is rich, the arrangements sophisticated. As a choir we rarely get to perform the music of our country – typically we perform the Symphonic-Choir Repertoire. Singing different styles allows us to reflect on our identity and our diversity – and there is so much diversity in this country! To present an overview of different American styles or genres, we chose some significant works that capture the spirit of this great nation,” said the Chorale’s Music Director, David Rosenmeyer.
Americans may not be aware that choral music is widely performed outside this country. Many choral groups that are exclusively devoted to the singing of Spirituals have cropped up in South America, the Middle East and the Baltic countries; and it is a rare choir that does not include American choral music in their programs.
Rosenmeyer continues, “Music is without a doubt one of the greatest contributions that the United States has given the world. All around the globe, choral groups of all sizes and ages love to perform American music. We hope you enjoy this adventure into new territory as much as we enjoy presenting it!”
Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. $5 for students. Group rates are available on request. Tickets are available from Chorale members, online, or by phone or by mail. To order online, please visit the Chorale’s website at: www.fairfieldcountychorale.org. For more information call (203) 254-1333. Norwalk Concert Hall, 125 East Ave., Norwalk, CT.
