Voce Chamber Singers - Honor and Remembrance

Honor and Remembrance

Friday, October 24, 2014 at 8 pm
St. John Neumann Church, 11900 Lawyers Rd., Reston, Va.

Sunday, October 26, 2014 at 4 pm
Messiah United Methodist Church, 6215 Rolling Rd., Springfield, Va.

Voce is proud to open its 26th season, now under the artistic direction of Richard Giarusso, with a program featuring the Musikalische Exequien of Heinrich Schütz, and the Requiem by Herbert Howells. Schütz’s Exequien, written in 1636, is a lesser-known gem of the German choral tradition. Among the composer’s many admirers was none other than Johannes Brahms, whose own German Requiem is often compared with Schütz’s masterpiece. The work’s dramatic juxtaposition of solo and choral textures showcases Voce’s versatility.

Although Howells wrote his Requiem in the 1930s, it was not widely known until the composer sanctioned its release in 1980. It is at once a deeply personal piece associated with the death of the composer’s son. Howells’ Requiem is among the glories of the 20th century a cappella repertoire, with its iridescent harmonies and rich textures.

Under the direction of Richard Giarusso, the 32-voice ensemble is dedicated to presenting the highest caliber chamber choral music of all musical periods and from around the globe, as well as newly commissioned choral works.

Tickets are available online at www.voce.org. General admission tickets are $20; $10 for college students with ID; students under 18 admitted free. Call for group pricing. For more information, please call (703) 277-7772, or email VOCE at info@voce.org.