December is a music-filled month for our hard-working conductors, Artistic Director Philip Brunelle and Associate Conductor G. Phillip Shoultz, III. They led performers in introducing a new generation of choral music fans to holiday carols in the sold out Star of Wonder concerts, and carried on a beloved tradition with the Welcome Christmas concert series. Philip Brunelle is currently finishing up his duties conducting seven performances of the Minnesota Dance “Nutcracker” at the State Theater—his 21st year in the pit!

On January 26, international eyes will be on Minnesota—and VocalEssence—as our Ensemble Singers open the Super Bowl Live concert series with Idina Menzel. Philip will be rehearsing, coordinating and conducting this truly big event, with both an outdoor performance and a repeat in the much-warmer Orchestra Hall.

Post-Super Bowl, Philip will continue preparations for this year’s VocalEssence Gala, ReMix, ¡Cantaré!, and finalizing the 2018-19 VocalEssence calendar.

G. Phillip Shoultz, III is having a blast working with the new singers in the first-ever VocalEssence Youth Choir. Their debut performance is approaching with the February 18 VocalEssence WITNESS: Of Such I Dream concert, and everyone’s hard work is paying off.

Phillip is also putting the final touches on the preparations for our second-ever Together We Sing Festival on January 13. He’s connected with many dynamic local voice and dance educators to provide a memorable day of learning and fellowship.