Chorale Gets To Know 'Anonymous'

For anyone who has heard their fair share of quotes or read their fair share of books, knows that “Anonymous” is one of the most prodigious artists of all time, and now some of his/her/their best pieces of music will be performed for the benefits of local residents as well.

 The North Reading Community Chorale will be performing "The Best of Anonymous" with 7:30 p.m performances on Friday, May 6 and Saturday, May 7 at the on Park Street.

While some of the pieces, such as “Danny Boy” and “Down By The Riverside” may have turned into ubiquitous folk favorites, the fact that they also remain with unknown creators proved to be an intriguing concept for Director Peter Ghiloni.

“(Peter) always looks for something a little unique to base a concert on,” said Chorale Vice President Eileen Verney. “It became quite a challenge for him since there are so many songs familiar to people that are written by ‘anonymous.'”

And while the Chorale did pay royalties for re-interpretations of the song written by contemporary artists, Anonymous will not receive any compensation for the fact that their songs will be used, a fact they refused to comment on to North Reading Patch at press time.

All kidding aside, the array of 15 songs was chosen in a 90-minute arrangement balanced between more traditional pieces with lighter hearted works that might draw a laugh or two from the crowd.

Verney sees the performance as somewhat unique in the recent history of the Community Chorale’s lineup, but familiar enough that the Chorale’s regular fans will feel right at home with what they hear, although that may be due in part to the fact that many of the songs that will be performed have melted into the background of American culture.

And while certain portions of the performance will include advanced Acapella and solo performances from some of the Chorale’s top artists, other songs will also include refrains sung primarily by the audience, almost as a subliminal advertisement for the group’s open door policy for auditions during their weekly rehearsals every Monday night at 7:30 at Aldersgate.

Tickets will be sold at the door for $15, with tickets going for $10 for students and senior citizens.

More information on the Chorale can be found online at www.nrcc.us.