The Odyssey Commissioning Program is a key part of the VocalEssence mission to explore the interaction of voices and instruments through innovative programming of music.

The primary objective of Odyssey is to establish a multi-generational community of contributors to underwrite the commissioning of new music for voices and instruments for premiere by VocalEssence. Odyssey began in 1998 has been responsible for the commissioning of over 30 new works to date, including Libby Larsen's chamber opera, Barnum's Bird, Aaron Jay Kernis's Ecstatic Meditations and Cary John Franklin's Loss of Eden.

Odyssey funds are used to commission composers and librettists, defray music copying and printing expenses, and assist in post-premiere distribution of scores, critical reviews and recordings to encourage additional performances.

Participating in Odyssey is a unique opportunity for personal philanthropy. Contributors directly support artistic creation -- from offering the commission to the composer to the world premiere performance of the commissioned piece. Odyssey participants are also invited to several exclusive behind-the-scenes events each year.

For more information on Odyssey, please contact Paul D. Olson, Director of Development (612-547-1458) or by e-mail at polson@vocalessence.org.