VocalEssence and American Composers Forum have chosen five composers to participate in the May 2008 Essentially Choral reading session. The public is invited to attend a working rehearsal of their new music for voices and instruments on Saturday, May 31.

Essentially Choral provides an opportunity for emerging composers to develop their skills in writing for choral ensemble, either a cappella or with instruments. The program is co-sponsored by American Composers Forum and VocalEssence with the generous support of the Jerome Foundation. The selected composers are:

Elizabeth Joan Kelly (Tallahassee, FL): Tiare Tahiti (trumpet, piano)
Jonathan Kolm (Austin, TX): On the Beach at Night (a cappella)
Matthew Van Brink (New York, NY): A Thousand Tender Passages (harp, cello)
Scott Sandersfeld (Minneapolis, MN): And Every Stone Shall Cry (a cappella)
David Mercer (Minneapolis, MN): Psalm 43 (a cappella)

The public reading session on Saturday, May 31, 2008 from 10 am to 1 pm at The Music Room, SPCO Center, Third Floor (408 St. Peter Street, Saint Paul).

The VocalEssence Ensemble Singers, considered one of America’s most adventurous and finest choral groups, join Monroe Crossing, the Midwest’s leading bluegrass and gospel band, in this extraordinary concert. After hearing a short set by each group, discover the magic of Carol Barnett’s “The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass,” which was written for them to perform together. The contrast of the sophisticated choral sound and jubilant bluegrass harmonies brings its beautiful text to life, creating a unique experience of celebration, grace and peace.

Ticket Price:
$20

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hosted by VocalEssence and St. Olaf

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