Salt Lake Choral Artists

Christmas on Temple Square

2010-11-11T15:16:00.001-07:00

This year, the Salt Lake Choral Artists are excited to be able to perform in the Tabernacle on Temple Square as the kickoff concert event to this year's season of Christmas on Temple Square!

Tickets for the concert are free and currently sold out, but you may be able to get in on standby.

Click here for event information.

Hope to see you there!

SLVA Spain Tour: More Competition and Results

2010-10-31T18:39:00.002-06:00

Today we competed in our final two categories: large group polyphony and large group folklore (folk music, jazz, etc.). Both of our sets went very well. The audience seemed to love us, and we sang with so much energy in our second set that I think it would have been impossible not to tap your feet along with us!

Also, we are pretty sure we called the rain in Tolosa when we sang "Cloudburst."

After a long dinner and an agonizing wait through a bunch of beautiful traditional Basque dancing, we learned the results. Here's the breakdown:

SMALL GROUP SACRED MUSIC - First Prize
SMALL GROUP SECULAR MUSIC - First Prize
LARGE GROUP POLYPHONY - First Prize
LARGE GROUP FOLKLORE - First Prize

Additionally, we won the prize for being the audience favorite!

The only thing we didn't win was the overall Grand Prize, which went to an amazing Hungarian children's choir. But it's the best of all possible scenarios for us! This way, we won every single category we entered, plus the audience prize, and now we don't have to come back to Tolosa next year to compete in the European Grand Prix, which we would be forced to do if we had won that prize.

We could not be happier!

Tomorrow we have a prizewinners concert and then a final concert in Tolosa before we head home dark and early on Tuesday morning.

Thanks again to everyone who has made this possible, especially the festival organizers and all of the wonderful people here in Spain who have lead us around, fed us, housed us, and listened to us sing. We love you!

SLVA Spain Tour: Concerts and Competition!

2010-10-31T00:21:00.014-06:00

I apologize that it has been so long since I have updated this blog. We have had many busy days in a row with extremely late nights, and there just has not been time! So here is a longer update about what has been going on since Tuesday.

The concert in Pamplona was great fun. The audience seemed to enjoy us very much, and we had a great time with them! We also enjoyed a little time running with the bulls.

On Wednesday, we enjoyed spending some rehearsal time with Josu Elberdin, who wrote "Segalariak," which is one of the compulsory pieces for the competition. He gave us a lot of great pointers and we are very grateful for his help!

Later that day, we headed to Tafalla for another concert in a great place called the San Pedro church.

The concert was fun and we were starting to feel really good about competition! But we also needed a break, and conveniently, Thursday was our free day. We decided to spend some time in San Sebastian, which has some beautiful beaches and lots of shops.

It was lovely and a much needed break.

On Friday, the competition began! Friday was the first round---secular music---for the small group (max 16 voices). We had a short rehearsal in the morning and then a very brief sound check in the hall...and then we were off!

It went quite well, and we were happy to relax after it was over, because on Saturday morning we had round two for the small group---sacred music. This round took place in a nice little church in Tolosa.

Again, we felt pretty good about what we did. The other choirs here are really quite good! It's a very fun and very intense competition! We are very happy to be here doing this!

After round two yesterday, we headed off to a new city for a concert, and on the way we took a spin through Bilbao just to see the Guggenheim museum.

What an amazing building! Thanks to our guides and our bus driver for taking us there! Afterwards, we headed on toward our concert in a church whose name escapes me right now, in a town that I also can't recall at this moment. (Very informative!)

The concert was absolutely fantastic---our best to date---and left us feeling very charged for the large group competition (max 40 voices) that happens today. We feel very ready and very excited!

It's hard for all of us to believe that we have already been here for a week and we are almost ready to come home! It's been great so far...thanks to everyone who made this possible for us!

SLVA Spain Tour: Sing, Sing, Sing!

2010-10-26T06:49:00.005-06:00

It's Tuesday afternoon here in Spain, and we're smack in the middle of our daily siesta (which, by the way, America should definitely adopt). In about an hour we'll head off to Pamplona for a little bit of shopping, then a rehearsal and a concert.

Yesterday, we also had siesta, which was great---and a video was made during that time which you can view on the Salt Lake Vocal Artists facebook page. In the video, the concert from last night is referenced---we sang in a church in Basauri called San Pedro of Eliza.

The concert was very fun and pretty well attended---they definitely liked us and really appreciated our Basque songs. They fed us a very late meal afterwards which we very much appreciated!

Tonight we'll sing in Pamplona and hopefully it will go better than it did yesterday---not that last night was bad, just that there is always room to improve and the competition is approaching very quickly!

Spain is very cold right now but very beautiful. We are happy to be here!

SLVA Spain Tour: Flight and Arrival

2010-10-24T11:19:00.005-06:00

Did you know the Salt Lake Choral Artists have a new addition to their choral family? The Salt Lake Vocal Artists are a small chamber choir of about 40 voices that have just begun a 10-day tour of the Basque region in Spain. We left Salt Lake City at noon on Saturday, October 22, and, after a flight to Atlanta and another to Madrid, arrived here in Spain on Sunday safely.

It's beautiful and very rainy---whether on the plain or not!

We are staying in a little town called Oiartzun which is not far from Tolosa. What is happening in Tolosa near the end of this week is the reason we are here.

SLVA has come to compete in the Tolosa Choral Competition, which is a very prestigious competition attended by some of the best choirs in the world. We are competing in both the large (40 voice maximum) and small (16 voice maximum) categories. Before the competition begins, we'll give a few concerts in towns around the area.

We're all looking forward to performing, meeting the Spanish people, and giving our best at the competition! Hopefully the wifi at our hotel will continue to work so we can keep you updated. You can also follow us on facebook!

We hope you enjoy SLVA's first tour blog!

SCI: Session 1

2010-06-16T17:37:00.002-06:00

The first session of the Summer Choral Institute starts this week! Now in it's fourth year, SCI continues to bring a great selection of music to the community! If you like to sing---in your car, in the shower, at a karaoke bar, anywhere!---then SCI is for you!

This week's session is titled "Music from the South" and features Robert Ray's Gospel Mass, Rob Landes' jazzy piece Images, and other traditional spirituals. Don't miss it!

Rehearsals are on Thursday 7-10 PM, Friday 7-10 PM, Saturday 9:00-noon and 2:00-5:00 (all in room 270 David Gardner Hall), with a free concert at 7:30 PM in Libby Gardner Concert Hall!

Sign up at our homepage or at the door. You won't want to miss it! See you there!

Lux Aeterna

2010-05-10T16:05:00.003-06:00

Join us for our last concert of the 2009-2010 season! Featuring Morten Lauridsen's ethereal "Lux Aeterna" and the premiere of a new work by Ray Shattenkirk, this is an evening of fantastic music not to be missed!

Saturday, May 15
7:30 PM
Libby Gardner Concert Hall

Tickets are available through our homepage or at the door the night of the concert.

Don't miss it!

Young Choral Artists

2010-02-07T19:47:00.005-07:00

At our upcoming Beatlemania concert (see previous blog post), the Salt Lake Choral Artists are proud to present our newest group, the Young Choral Artists!

During the last two months, over 80 talented children ages 7-13 auditioned for the children’s choir. Over 60 children were selected to sing and are expected to bring the house down. Jessica Lee, a former graduate student of Dr. Allred's, organized and directs the choir. This concert marks the kick-off event for the Young Choral Artists, whose first official season begins Fall 2010.

The organization will provide children with the unique opportunity to collaborate with the Salt Lake Choral Artists, as well as organize their own performances and collaborations in the community.

“The first thing we drilled at rehearsal,” Jessica Lee said, “was looking at pictures of the legendary four and reciting their names, 'Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison, Ringo Star.' Many of the children had no idea who the Beatles were when they came to the audition!”

Jessica Lee hopes all the singers will come away from the experience with a new-found excitement for performance. “Several parents have mentioned that they are delighted to have an opportunity for their children that reinforces the thrill of musical achievement in a social atmosphere,” she said. “The study of music is often an independent, and sometimes lonely, endeavor. Children practice their instruments alone, go to lessons alone, and perform onstage alone. There isn’t a coach yelling their name as they practice their scales, or a devoted mother bringing treats to every practice. Choir is one way to offer young people an experience that engages them socially and motivates them musically. Choral singing teaches beginning vocal technique and musicianship skills that can supplement and enhance private instruction.”

Get your tickets to Beatlemania here!

Visit this page for more information about about joining the Young Choral Artists for the 2009-2010 season!

Beatlemania!

2010-02-07T19:36:00.002-07:00

The Salt Lake Choral Artists' next concert will be like nothing you've ever heard from us before: Beatlemania!

John, Paul, George, and Ringo: those four iconic names that changed the face of pop music forever. Experience the British Invasion all over again as the Salt Lake Choral Artists sing the classic music of Lennon and McCartney as well as music by artists that both influenced and were influenced by the Beatles. With Get Back, a live Beatles cover band, and the award-winning vocal ensemble T minus 5, this is sure to be a night to remember!

You'll hear many of your favorites, including "Hey Jude," "All You Need is Love," "Here Comes the Sun," "Blackbird," and more.

Due to overwhelming demand for tickets, there are two performances!

Option 1:
February 20, 2010
Libby Gardner Concert Hall
7:30 PM
Tickets for this performance are sold out at the box office. There may be a small handful left. Call and ask, but don't count on getting in at the door!

Option 2:
For the first time ever, SLCA is offering a matinee performance!
February 20, 2010
Libby Gardner Concert Hall
2:00 PM
Tickets for this performance are still available! They are $15 and can only be purchased through our website.

Don't miss it! It will be an extravaganza like none other! See you there!

Laud to the Nativity

2009-12-09T07:48:00.002-07:00

Don't miss our annual holiday concert, "Laud to the Nativity," on December 19 at 7:30 pm in Libby Gardner Concert Hall!

Tickets available through our homepage. See you there!

Thank you!

2009-10-18T00:33:00.001-06:00

Thanks to everyone who attended and made our first concert of the season, "Made in America," a great success! Special thanks to Spence Kinard for narrating the program and tying everything together.

Mark your calendars now for our December concert, "Laud to the Nativity," on Saturday, December 19. This season has started out with a bang, and it's sure to only get better!

Fall Concert

2009-10-04T13:40:00.001-06:00

Saturday, October 17
7:30 PM, Libby Gardner Concert Hall
Tickets available through Kingsbury Hall or our website. May also be available at the door the night of the concert

Don't miss it!

Facebook Fans

2009-09-24T22:48:00.000-06:00

Make sure you join the Salt Lake Choral Artists Facebook Fan Page to not only keep up with all the latest news and concert announcements, but also take advantage of some great media!

We already have a lot of pictures from previous events, with more sure to come, and we've just begun featuring songs on our music player. The first featured song is a live performance of an arrangement of George Gershwin's "'S Wonderful." Since our first concert this season features American music, this is a great way to get in the mood!

New songs will be added periodically, and we'll also feature videos from our new YouTube channel.

If you are already a member of facebook, join our fan page today! If you're not a member, sign up for free and hop on board! You won't be sorry!

Season Tickets

2009-09-14T21:49:00.000-06:00

Tickets for our 2009-2010 are now available for purchase.

You may buy tickets for individual concerts or buy season tickets. Prices and further information can be found on our website.

Buy season tickets before October 10 and receive an Early Bird discount: get the entire season for only $50!

Visit our website to purchase. We've got a great season of music lined up---you won't want to miss a single concert!

SLCA is on YouTube!

2009-09-06T21:09:00.003-06:00

The Salt Lake Choral Artists now has its very own YouTube channel! You can view it here. Arvo Pärt's "Te Deum" is the first video available (in four parts due to length) with more on the way.

Subscribe, rate, and spread the word! And keep watching!

SLCA's 2009/10 Concert Season

2009-08-16T23:25:00.001-06:00

We're ready to go on our new concert season, and we're very excited! Season brochures will be available soon. In the meantime, use this note to mark your calendars now! You won't want to miss any part of this season.

October 17: Made in America
Moving past pop and rock and roll, the Salt Lake Choral Artists explore the roots of American music. The choir will sing selections from Carol Barnett's "Bluegrass Mass," along with traditional folk music, African-American spirituals, gospel music, jazz, and music from the American musical theater. Also including sacred and secular music by living American composers, this concert truly represents a melting pot of styles.

December 19: Laud to the Nativity
Featuring soprano Carol Ann Allred, tenor Todd Miller, and mezzo-soprano Laura Garff Lewis, Respighi's "Laud to the Nativity" charmingly and intimately tells the nativity story through the eyes of the shepherds. Dr. Allred will also direct the Salt Lake Choral Artists in Ariel Ramirez' "Navidad Nuestra," which sets the Christmas story against a tapestry of traditional Latin American dance styles and instrumentation. The concert will include the music of Arvo Part, selections from Sergei Rachmaninoff's "All Night Vigil," and familiar favorites by John Rutter.

February 20: Beatlemania
John, Paul, George, and Ringo: those four iconic names that changed the face of pop music forever. Experience the British Invasion all over again as the Salt Lake Choral Artists sing the classic music of Lennon and McCartney as well as music by artists that both influenced and were influenced by the Beatles. With Get Back, a live Beatles cover band, and the award-winning vocal ensemble T minus 5, this is sure to be a night to remember!

May 15: Lux Aeterna - Eternal Light
Light: hope, faith, life, joy. Morten Lauridsen's "Lux Aeterna," a beautiful work for choir and chamber orchestra, fully expresses the idea of light in both its soaring, majestic phrases and its moments of quiet serenity. With texts drawn from a variety of sacred Latin sources, the piece emphasizes heavenly light. The Salt Lake Choral Artists will also premiere "One Light," a newly commissioned work by Ray Shattenkirk that draws its inspiration from religious poems from many faiths.

Free Concert!

2009-08-07T23:04:00.002-06:00

Don't miss the concert of the last weekend session of the Summer Choral Institute, featuring John Rutter's "Psalmfest." This concert is free, and you'll get to hear the choir along with a chamber orchestra and soloists George Dyer and Carol Ann Allred.

This is a very exciting event and a great way to wrap up this part of this year's SCI. Tell all your friends! And come with them!

Details:

Saturday, August 8
7:30
Libby Gardner Concert Hall
School of Music, U of U campus
FREE!

See you there!

Our First CD Release!

2009-07-14T19:20:00.004-06:00

The Salt Lake Choral Artists are proud to present their first CD release:

He Loves Me, sacred choral works by David R. Naylor

David Naylor is a Utah composer, and SLCA is proud to promote the works of local artists. You may hear samples of some of the tracks here, and you may purchase the CD at our boutique (online soon or in person at an SCI event or any concert), or from any choir member.

Thank you for your support!

Free concert!

2009-07-10T23:26:00.000-06:00

There's a free concert tomorrow night (Saturday, July 11) in Thompson Chamber Hall at the University of Utah. It begins at 7:30, and features music for women's voices. There's folk songs, Broadway tunes, and everything in between. Come for a fun, free night of great music!

Utah Composers and more conducting

2009-07-06T21:53:00.002-06:00

July is a busy month for the Salt Lake Choral Artists. Don't miss the next great SCI sessions we've got lined up!

Session 5: July 13-19

Session 5 is titled "Utah Composers: Sacred and Secular Choral Music by Composers from Utah." Especially good for families, this session is in collaboration with the Madeleine Choir School. Elementary and junior high students will enjoy daily choral rehearsals at the Madeleine Choir School. Additionally, they can choose enrichment classes in subjects such as composition, violin, handbells, conducting, keyboard, and movement. The youth portion of this session lasts from July 13-19.

Adult singers will enjoy singing sacred and secular choral music by Mack Wilberg, Ronald Staheli, Thomas Durham, David Naylor, Cameron Rose, Jane Fjeldsted, Marie Nelson Bennett, Murray Boren and others. The adult portion of this session lasts from July 16-19.

The session concludes with a free Saturday evening concert and a Sunday performance at the Cathedral of the Madeleine.

Intermediate/Advanced Conducting Workshop: July 13-17

Raise the level of your artistic, technical, and aural conducting skills. Scheduled in conjunction with the Salt Lake Choral Artists Summer Choral Institute, students will have opportunities to conduct the Institute Choir as well as members of the SLCA Chamber Choir in standard choral literature. Selected repertoire will include the sacred and secular music of Utah composers. Topics of discussion include advanced score study and preparation, performance practice, diction, rehearsal techniques, and ensemble unity. The week's activities will culminate in two public performances featuring selected conductors from the class.

The workshop is taught by Dr. Brady R. Allred.

As always, visit our webiste to register. You may also register at the door.

We'll see you there!

Upcoming SCI

2009-06-29T21:05:00.002-06:00

The first session of the Summer Choral Institute was a great success! Miss it? It's all right---there are more chances! Three more sessions are almost upon us already!

SESSION 2 (July 7)

Session 2 is titled “An Evening with Rodgers and Hammerstein.” Come experience the beauty and power of these award-winning composers at their best, without the costumes and stage lights!

SESSION 3 (July 9-11)

Session 3 is titled "Girls' Night Out: Choral Music for Women." For the first time ever, SCI is hosting a session devoted to music just for treble voices. Repertoire will include popular folk music, Broadway showtunes, and Gustav Holst's "Hymns from the Rig Veda" with harp accompaniment.

SESSION 4 (July 14)

Session 4 focuses on Mack Wilberg's "Requiem," which was premiered in 2007 and recently recorded by the Tabernacle Choir. Come experience this beautiful new composition.

Visit our homepage to register and get more information. See you there!

God Bless America

2009-06-27T13:40:00.001-06:00

The first session of the 3rd annual Summer Choral Institute ends today, culminating in a big patriotic concert at 7:30 in Libby Gardner Concert Hall.

The SCI Choir will be joined by the 23rd Army Band in such favorites as "God Bless America," "Give Me Your Tired, Your Poor," and "The Battle Hymn of the Republic."

And best of all, it's FREE!

See you there!

Conducting Workshop and SCI Session 1

2009-06-09T18:52:00.001-06:00

Don't forget that the third annual Summer Choral Institute is starting in only two weeks!

The first event is the Choral Conducting Workshop for beginning to intermediate conductors.

Become the conductor you have always wanted to be! Improve your rehearsal techniques and conducting skills in a friendly and nurturing class setting. Subject matter includes tips for selecting choral literature, score study and preparation, dynamic phrasing, acquiring and using meaningful conducting gestures, effective rehearsal techniques, performance practice, diction, and beautiful singing. Students will have daily opportunities to conduct the class as a lab chorus, and to sing in the Salt Lake Choral Artists Summer Institute Chorus. Conducting sessions are videotaped for personal evaluation. Participants receive a packet of music at the beginning of the week for use during the class.

This workshop runs from June 22-26.

Session 1 is titled "God Bless America: Patriotic Music from the USA" and will be accompanied by the 23rd Army Band. Repertoire will feature Howard Hanson's "Song of Democracy," as well as patriotic favorites including "Give Me Your Tired, Your Poor," "The Battle Hymn of the Republic," and "God Bless America." Popular favorites include "Bring Him Home" and "This Land is Your Land," plus an Armed Services Medley complete with flag ceremony and color guard. Come celebrate your love for America!

Visit our website to get more information and register for SCI!

Enemy Slayer tomorrow!

2009-05-01T17:26:00.002-06:00

Don't miss the Utah premiere of Mark Grey's Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio.

The Salt Lake Choral Artists, along with a full symphony orchestra, will perform this work on Saturday, May 2, at 7:30 pm in Libby Gardner Concert Hall at the University of Utah. The piece also features the photography of Deborah O'Grady. The evening promises to be a unique experience you won't soon forget. Don't miss it!

Tickets are available through Kingsbury Hall or at the door.

Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio

2009-04-21T22:25:00.003-06:00

Visit our website for ticketing information.

Water Passion After St. Matthew

2009-04-02T23:04:00.002-06:00

In the spirit of supporting other local choral groups, let me encourage you to attend the upcoming Utah premiere of Tan Dun's "Water Passion After St. Matthew," which will be performed by the University of Utah Singers and A Cappella Choir on April 10 and 11 at Libby Gardner Concert Hall.

This is a unique work that has only been performed a handful of times in the world since it was written in 2000. It bridges Eastern and Western cultures, blending Tibetan chant, overtone singing, electronic music, and Bach, culminating in a unique shared cultural experience for both performers and audience members.

Performers and audience members of this piece will experience a remarkably wide range of vocal style, from four-part chorales to overtone singing, Tuvan throat-singing, and elements of Peking opera. Western instruments are used to produce the sounds of Chinese, Mongolian, and Middle Eastern cultures. On stage will be seventeen filled, transparent water basins lit from below that are played as instruments by percussionists, thus creating a unique auditory and visual experience, all based around the universal theme of rebirth. Don't miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to see this work performed live.

For more information and to hear a clip from the piece, check out the Singers website.

And for the legally minded out there, let me add that this work is partially funded in thanks to Fine Arts Fees.

Early Summer Planning

2009-02-22T00:17:00.004-07:00

Now is a great time to start planning what you want to do this summer. How about enjoying some choral singing? The third annual Summer Choral Institute runs June through August and is sure to have something to suit your style and schedule.

Information on each of the nine sessions is available here. Watch this space for information on registration as it gets closer. We are also listed on ACDA's page for Choral Festivals and Workshops.

Plan to attend one, two, or even more sessions of the Summer Choral Institute! All the fun of singing with none of the pressure of auditioning. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity!

Te Deum Concert: February 21

2009-02-17T23:07:00.002-07:00

Don't miss your chance to hear the Salt Lake Choral Artists partner with the University of Utah Singers to perform Arvo Pärt's "Te Deum." This is a unique, haunting, and beautiful work not often performed in the area. Also on the concert program is another setting of the "Te Deum" text by Petr Eben, and several Eastern European folk songs.

The University of Utah Singers will also be giving a sneak preview of what they are preparing for their European tour this spring.

Tickets are still available! Talk to any choir member, visit our website, call the Kingsbury Hall ticket office, or get them at the door. You won't want to miss this wonderful concert!

Details:
Saturday, February 21
7:30 PM
Libby Gardner Concert Hall, University of Utah Campus

Tickets available now!

2009-01-14T00:42:00.002-07:00

Even though our next concert isn't until February 21, it's not too early to buy your tickets.

Along with the University of Utah Singers, SLCA's February concert will feature Arvo Part's haunting "Te Deum" and other Eastern European works. It will certainly be an evening of unforgettable music.

Purchase your tickets by visiting www.saltlakechoralartists.org, speaking to any choir member, visiting the Kingsbury Hall box office, or through www.kingsburyhall.org. You won't want to miss this concert!

Tribute to Jay Welch

2009-01-01T00:55:00.002-07:00

Jay Welch, who is not only a pivotal figure in SLCA's history---he founded the choir, then called the Jay Welch Chorale---but also a great man in general, passed away recently.

Read a tribute to him here.

Thank you, Jay! You will be missed by many.

Thank You!

2008-12-21T11:28:00.004-07:00

The Salt Lake Choral Artists would like to thank everyone for your support of the first half of our 2008-2009 concert season.

Both the October "Multicultural Celebration" and December "Hodie" concerts were performed to sold out houses and enthusiastic audiences. We love sharing our music with the community, so thank you for receiving it!

We have two more wonderful concerts coming up---"Te Deum" in February and "Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio" in May---and would greatly appreciate your patronage. You may also consider making a tax deductible contribution.

Did you know:

$5 will cover the cost of one vocal score for "Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio"

$10 will purchase batteries for rehearsal microphones

$25 will provide snacks for Summer Choral Institute participants

$50 will help purchase SLCA office supplies

$100 will provide tickets to our concerts for underserved populations

$250 will sponsor students to participate in the Summer Choral Institute

$500 can provide a stipend for SLCA section leaders

$1,000 will help pay for orchestral and vocal scores

$2,000 will help pay guest artists

$3,000 can help cover the cost of renting Libby Gardner Concert Hall

$5,000 will help pay the Salt Lake Symphony for playing "Hodie"

$10,000 will help sponsor our "Enemy Slayer" concert

Donations may be sent to
Salt Lake Choral Artists
204 DGH
1375 East Presidents Circle
Salt Lake City, UT 84112

or you may donate online here.

Thank you for all your support! We hope to see you in the audience again!

Construction Dust

2008-12-02T23:52:00.000-07:00

The SLCA blog is undergoing some changes right now, so please be patient if there are very few posts for a little while. It will all be worth it in the end. :)

Thank you!

Season tickets

2008-11-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

Did you think that just because the first concert of the season is over you can no longer buy season tickets?

Well, think again! You may now purchase partial-season tickets! Get three great concerts for one great price!

You may buy this package for $39 (adult) or $26 (students/seniors 60+). Look for a half-season package after the December concert.

Hodie tickets

2008-11-16T21:20:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that tickets for the "Hodie" concert are available on consignment.

When you sign up for consignment tickets, you will be given an envelope with a standard number of tickets in it. You also have the option to check out more, so don't feel restricted. But please don't take 90 if you know you're only going to sell three--that gives us a false sense of how ticket sales are going.

In the meantime, you should know that we are doing quite well selling tickets for this concert. We've already sold around 300, and we're still several weeks away. Keep up the good work and let's plan for a full house!

Review of Multicultural Concert

2008-10-19T18:32:00.000-06:00

We got reviewed in Sunday's Salt Lake Tribune. Link to the entire story here, or keep reading below for a few highlights.

"Brady Allred's efforts to share world music during the Salt Lake Choral Artists' "Multicultural Celebration" at Libby Gardner Hall Saturday night were met with enthusiastic approval.

"The Chamber Choir . . . demonstrated secure vocal technique, clear diction and centered pitch. Allred allowed his singers ample expressive freedom, and the group's shared musical vision gave the performance unity throughout.

"The [Concert Choir] sang five movements from [Fanshawe's] 'African Sanctus' and three selections from 'Pacific Song.' . . . [a] well-honed performance.

"The evening's most appealing selections were a Taiwanese song, 'Diu Diu Dang Ah,' that mimicked the sounds of a train journey and Aboriginal Australian music, 'Past Life Melodies,' that utilized overtone or throat singing to fascinating effect.

"Jane Fjeldsted led the women's chorus in delicate and expressive music . . . Associate conductor Aimee Frederick directed the Concert Choir in lush and detailed music."

Well done, everyone!

New Deseret News article

2008-10-14T10:48:00.000-06:00

Salt Lake Choral Artists conductor is confident in his group

SLCA Cookbook

2008-09-28T15:52:00.000-06:00

Don't forget to copy down some of your favorite recipes for use in the Salt Lake Choral Artists Cookbook!

Carolyn Bristol and Leslie Anderson, who are spearheading this project, have asked that we either email our recipes to them or take them to a Tuesday night rehearsal. They've been collecting recipes all September and have asked that we have everything turned into them sometime this month.

That means you only have one more Tuesday night rehearsal--September 30--to hand in your recipes! Make sure to do it--this will certainly be a great cookbook with everyone's participation!

Consignment Tickets

2008-09-24T12:17:00.000-06:00

As was started last year with Elijah, you can now check out tickets to sell to your family members, friends, co-workers, casual acquaintances, taxi drivers, and enemies.

Should you like to carry around a bundle of tickets, please come to any Tuesday night rehearsal early to speak with Becky Workman. She'll happily sign you out as many or as few tickets as you'd like. All this means is that she has your name and how many tickets you've taken. You do not have to pay for the tickets at this time. You can then sell them, and bring the money and any unsold tickets back to Becky before the concert.

Let me repeat: you do not have to pay for the tickets you take--unless you don't return them. Otherwise, it's free for you, and a great way to sell tickets. Honestly, it's much easier to commit people to come to a concert when you actually have physical tickets they can buy. I've gotten people to come to concerts this way when before they have just said "maybe."

Check out some tickets, and let's sell out the house for our season opener!

Fun concert this weekend

2008-09-18T23:06:00.000-06:00

Since we all belong to a great choir, and great choirs should support other great choirs, I thought you all might be interested to know that the University of Utah's choral department has its first concert this weekend. Here's the information:

Choral Showcase
featuring the University Singers, Acappella Choir, and Women's Choir
Saturday, September 20, 7:30
Libby Gardner Concert Hall

Tickets are $7.00 general, $3.00 student and may be purchased at the door or online through kingsburyhall.org. Your best bet, though--and the one that will save you the extra handling fee--is to buy the tickets directly from a choir member. There are several (myself included) in SLCA, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding someone to sell you a ticket.

This concert promises to be fun for everyone. Hope to see you there!

Waltzing Matilda

2008-09-10T21:17:00.000-06:00

If you, like me, were confused (and amused) by the Australian slang in "Waltzing Matlida," be confused no longer! Here are the answers to your un-asked questions:

A swagman is basically a nomad--a man wandering looking for work. His swag is his bedroll and belongings.

A billabong is a lake.

A jumbuck is a sheep. Go figure.

A billy is a can used for boiling water.

A tucker bag is a bag used for carrying food. Tucker, then, is food.

Troopers and thoroughbred you can probably figure out: police officers and a horse.

The term squatter is used the same as we use it in America--someone using land they don't legally have rights to use.

And lest you think Waltzing Matlida is actually a waltz--to waltz actually means to travel around and learn new skills and Matilda is simply a nickname for the swagman's bundle. Some people say that these men did actually dance with their bundles, but that's disputed.

Anyway, with all of these terms explained, you should be able to figure out that this song is about a man who was camping by a lake making tea, when a sheep wandered by. He grabbed it and stuck it into his bag. But then a squatter comes by, claiming to own the sheep. He's brought the police. Refusing to be taken in, the wandering worker decides to drown himself in the lake and haunt the site instead.

All clear? :)

Tuition Update

2008-09-02T22:27:00.000-06:00

There was a slight error in the tuition information given out last week. The adjusted rates are as follows:

Regular member: no change ($200 payable as $70, $70, and $60)
Married couples: $350 (payable as $125, $125, and $100)
Full-time student: $150 (three increments of $50)

Sorry for the mix-up!

Farewell to the Clarks

2008-09-01T15:51:00.000-06:00

Christine Clark and her husband David are moving away, and everyone involved with SLCA would like to wish them good luck and a fond farewell.

In case you didn't know, David Clark was chairman of the board before Alicia, and Christine has been our managing director for several years. Both of them did a lot of great work for SLCA.

Thank you very much for all your hard work and dedication, Christine and David! You will be missed, but we wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors.

And we're back!

2008-08-25T15:58:00.000-06:00

The first meeting for SLCA's 2008-2009 season is tomorrow from 7:00-9:30 in the choir room at Olympus High.

This meeting is for ALL MEMBERS. If you have not yet paid your first installment of tuition, please bring it tomorrow if you would like to receive music tomorrow night. Otherwise, the first payment is due at the first regular rehearsal on September 2.

See you there!

Thank you, Kerrin!

2008-08-12T23:07:00.000-06:00

The Summer Choral Institute ended last weekend with a performance of the Requiems of John Rutter and Gabriel Faure. This last session concluded a summer full of music including everything from Broadway favorites to opera choruses to folk music.

There were many people involved in making SCI work this year who deserve thanks--volunteers at the registration desk and helping with refreshments, pianists, guest soloists, and more--but we need to give a huge thank you to Kerrin Gates, who is the SCI director. Kerrin worked ridiculously hard on this program for months, and without her hard work SCI would not have been the success it was.

Thank you for a great summer of singing, Kerrin! And thank you to everyone who participated and/or helped in any way. We look forward to next year!

Two weeks and counting!

2008-08-12T13:18:00.000-06:00

The beginning of our 2008-2009 season is only two weeks away!

That's right, the first meeting for all members, whether new or returning, is on August 26 from 7:00-9:30 at Olympus High School. Don't miss it!

Our upcoming season is full of a great variety of music:
October: Multicultural music
December: Vaughan Williams' "Hodie"
February: Eastern European music
May: Navajo Oratorio

For more details about these concerts, visit our homepage, and start spreading the word now! It's sure to be a great year.

See you in two weeks!

Vocal Assessments

2008-08-03T10:59:00.000-06:00

If you have not yet signed up for a vocal assessment time and you are planning on returning in the fall, contact Judy Prawitt as soon as possible to schedule a time before the season starts. This is something every choir member must participate in, so make sure you get signed up.

Also, if you are not planning on returning, contact Judy to let her know. If you know someone who is not returning, let them know they need to contact Judy as well.

Thank you for helping us keep our rosters current and our choir running smoothly!

SCI Final Sessions

2008-07-25T14:02:00.000-06:00

It's hard to believe another summer has almost gone by, and with it, the second annual Summer Choral Institute is coming to a close. If you haven't attended a session yet, you have two more chances, so sign up and go!

Session 3, Peace and Paradise: Requiems by Faure and Rutter, runs August 7-9. This is the last full length session that ends in a concert, so if you want to perform in Libby this summer, make sure to sign up for this session.

The last part of Session 4, the Choral Masterworks session that has been running all summer, is on August 5 and will focus on several different opera choruses. I've seen the music for this session, and it looks like it will be tons of fun!

Don't let the summer pass you by without participating in at least one session of SCI. It's well worth the time and money. You won't be sorry if you go!

Officers' Retreat

2008-07-20T19:33:00.000-06:00

Just a reminder that the next meeting for choir officers and section managers is Saturday, August 2, from 9:00-Noon at the same location as the meeting in May (the LDS chapel just east of the institute building on the U campus).

Please make sure to RSVP to Becky Workman by this Saturday, July 26.

See you there!

SLCA fan page

2008-07-18T15:10:00.000-06:00

In addition to our group on Facebook, introduced in this post, SLCA now has an official fan page. View it here.

You don't have to be a Facebook member to view the page, but you do to post items or become a fan. It's easy and free!

On the page, you'll find a short bio of the choir, a link to our homepage, and a few sound clips from our concerts. It's a great way to expand our community outreach and reach potential patrons. Check it out!

What to do with your holiday weekend

2008-07-10T22:02:00.000-06:00

Planning ahead for the 24th of July? Maybe looking to get out of town? Also wanting to get a jump start on next season? Of course!

The Phoenix Symphony is performing Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio at the Colorado Music Festival in Boulder, Colorado on July 24 and 25. You might recall that we are slated to perform this work in May to close out our 2008-2009 season. If you have the time and the means, it might be worth making the trip to Boulder to begin getting a feeling for this brand new piece.

Details about the festival can be found on the Colorado Music Festival homepage. Believe it or not, their performance is only two weeks away, so start planning now if this is something you want to do. In any case, have a safe and happy holiday weekend

SCI Session 2 and more!

2008-06-30T13:36:00.000-06:00

SESSION 2

Don't forget to sign up for Session 2 of this year's Summer Choral Institute! The session, Folk Music from Around the World, runs July 10-13. This is a session particularly recommended for families, and those interested can also have their children (grades 3-8) participate in a day camp run by the Madeleine Choir School throughout the entire week.

Participants in this session will also have the opportunity to sing at Spanish Mass at the Cathedral of the Madeleine on Sunday, July 13. Just a personal note: I've had the opportunity to sing at Mass a couple of times, and it is a really neat experience. You should take advantage of this opportunity!

CONDUCTING WORKSHOP

The same week as this session, July 7-12, Dr. Allred is running a Choral Conducting Workshop. Registration for this workshop includes a registration for Session 2, so if you've always wanted to learn to conduct better, sign up for a great experience. This is a workshop for conductors at all levels, so whether you're a professional choir director, a ward choir director, or just someone interested in choral directing, this session is for you.

SESSION 4

Finally, the next two chunks of Session 4 are closing in. On July 8, the sing-through will focus on Haydn's "Lord Nelson Mass," and on July 15, Poulenc's "Gloria" and Durufle's "Requiem." All of these pieces are well worth your time, so if you can fit any of this in your schedule, you absolutely should.

And tell your friends!

SCI beginning soon

2008-06-01T19:13:00.000-06:00

The beginning of the Summer Choral Institute is just days away!

Don't forget that this Thursday, June 5, is the deadline to register for Session 1 (Lullaby of Broadway) and Session 4 (Choral Masterworks). You can still register at the door, but be prepared to pay an extra fee.

Session 4 begins on Tuesday, June 10. The first meeting of the Choral Masterworks session will focus on Orff's Carmina Burana, so if you were a member of SLCA last fall, grab your score and sign up! If you weren't a member, never fear--you can buy a score when you register.

And just a heads up: early registration for Session 2 (Folk Music from Around the World) also ends on June 10, so make sure to register for that while you're attending Session 4!

Session 1 also begins next week, on Thursday, June 12. This session, focusing on showtunes, promises to be tons of fun, so make sure you get your registration in! You won't want to miss it.

Success!

2008-05-13T21:39:00.000-06:00

Thanks very much to Jan for putting together the closing banquet tonight. It was a great way to close out a successful season! I enjoyed myself this year and I hope you all did as well.

If you're worried about keeping yourself singing over the summer, have no fear! Even though the official season is over, there are still plenty of SLCA events to keep you busy throughout the next few months. I'll do my best to keep updating the blog with information about SCI sessions as they arise, and anything else that might be of interest, so keep checking in!

Thanks again, and I'll see you all in the fall!

Vocal Assessments

2008-05-11T09:12:00.000-06:00

In case you forgot or missed the announcement, sign-ups for the Vocal Assessments were available at the concert last night. If you didn't sign up, I'm betting they'll also be at the banquet on Tuesday (but don't quote me on that). If they're not, or they are and you still forget to sign up, you should probably contact Judy Prawitt as soon as you can to get yourself on the list.

According to Judy, Chamber Choir members should sign up for the slots late in the summer, and all other members should sign up whenever else they can. Dr. Allred requests that as much as possible, we try to sign up in clusters, so he doesn't have, say, only one person on one night, or one person and then an hour break before the next.

Above all, don't be scared! Dr. Allred promises not to injure you.

Upcoming Schedule

2008-05-04T11:16:00.000-06:00

There are a number of things to be aware of for the next couple of weeks--please make sure you've noted them on your calendar!

Tuesday, May 6

Rehearsal from 7:00-10:00 in Libby Gardner Hall.
Also, today is the last day to RSVP and pay for the closing banquet.

Friday, May 9

Dress rehearsal from 7:00-10:00 in Libby Gardner Hall.

Saturday, May 10

Concert at 7:30 in Libby Gardner Hall. Call is at 6:00 sharp! Be there dressed and ready to go. You may choose whether or not you want to use a black folder or just carry your score separately.

Monday, May 12

Deadline for Early Registration for Sessions 1 and 4 of the Summer Choral Institute.

Tuesday, May 13

Closing banquet at 7:00 at the Old Meeting House (4120 South Highland Drive).

Elijah news release

2008-05-04T11:12:00.000-06:00

Today's Deseret News ran a press release about Elijah. A couple of highlights:

"Since Brady Allred became director, the Salt Lake Choral Artists have broadened their musical horizons significantly beyond what one would expect from a community organization.

"The ensemble has performed several large-scale works over the past few years, and it will add to its repertoire this weekend when it sings Felix Mendelssohn's 1846 oratorio 'Elijah' on Saturday in Libby Gardner Concert Hall. . . .

"And 'Elijah' certainly owes a great deal to the baroque. 'There is a strong Bach influence in it,' Allred said. 'It contains so much counterpoint and fugal writing, you have to know which parts to articulate. You have to know when a part is important and when it's not.'"

Read the whole thing here.

Choir retreat

2008-04-30T16:18:00.000-06:00

Just a reminder for choir officers and anyone else who signed up that retreat is this Saturday, May 3, from 9:00-12:00. We'll be talking about the future of the choir, working on plans for next year, and basically discussing everything. All very politely, of course. :)

We'll be at the LDS meetinghouse located at 1928 East Campus Drive at the U of U. There will be a continental breakfast at 8:30 and lunch at noon.

If you are planning on attending and have not yet RSVP'd to Jan, please do so immediately!

Elijah Invitation

2008-04-30T06:32:00.000-06:00

Send it to all your friends! Send them here to buy tickets.

We're technologically savvy.

2008-04-21T22:24:00.000-06:00

We're so up-to-date here at SLCA: we have a Facebook group. One more way to get the news out about our events to people who might not otherwise hear about them.

Check it out!

SCI early registration dates

2008-04-16T09:34:00.000-06:00

The beginning of the Summer Choral Institute is closer than you think! The early registration date for sessions one and four is looming.

Session 1, The Lullaby of Broadway, runs June 12-14. Session 4, the Choral Masterworks session, begins June 10.

Register by May 12 to guarantee receipt of music before the sessions begin and to receive practice CDs. Remember, you can register online, print out a registration form to mail in, or use one of our wonderful brochures.

If you register after the early deadline, you can still get in, but you might not get your music until you come. The regular registration deadline for these sessions is June 5. Also, if you choose to, you can register at the door, but be prepared to add ten dollars to your total.

Hope to see you there!

Online RSVP Available

2008-04-13T22:24:00.000-06:00

Hooray! The online RSVP and payment for the closing banquet is now up and running. You'll have to log in to the members only part of our website, then click the link for the banquet. After that, just follow the directions! It's as easy as pie. (Even though pie really isn't that easy, unless you buy Marie Callender's frozen pies, but that's a completely different topic.) Umm, easier than pie.

Alternatively, you can still RSVP and pay in person. See the previous post on this topic for details.

Either way, you need to RSVP and pay by May 6th.

Thanks for getting this working, Steve!

Upcoming Events

2008-04-06T08:36:00.000-06:00

Some upcoming community events you may be interested in attending:

The Madeleine Arts Festival begins its impressive and diverse lineup of concerts today with the German quintet called Calmus Ensemble. Included in the festival is a performance of Monteverdi's Vespers performed by the University of Utah choral ensembles, soloists, and an orchestra.

All concerts are on Sundays at 8:00 at the Cathedral. A complete schedule can be found here.

This Saturday, April 12, the University of Utah choral ensembles will also be performing the Vespers at Libby Gardner Concert Hall. For more information, including ticketing information, go here.

Closing Banquet RSVPs

2008-04-04T16:23:00.000-06:00

I know some of you were wondering about RSVPing and paying for the closing event on May 13. Steve is working on getting the online RSVP/pay site working via our website, but after getting all the SCI stuff online, he deserves a bit of a break.

In the meantime, you may pay Debra Cope at rehearsal, and RSVP directly to Jan using the email address she printed on the invitations that were handed out last week.

If you didn't get an invitation, it goes something like this:

The Officers of
Salt Lake Choral Artists
cordially invite you to attend the
Member Appreciation Dinner

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 - 7:00 pm

The Old Meeting House
4120 South Highland Drive
Salt Lake City, Utah

Dinner is $12 and for choir members only. Kindly RSVP and pay online by May 6th at www.saltlakechoralartists.org and click on the Membership link or RSVP to Jan Smith at janice underscore w underscore smith at msn dot com by May 6th. Vegetarian meal available upon request.

SCI registration open!

2008-04-03T16:22:00.000-06:00

Hooray! Thanks to Steve Witt, our webmaster, registration for the Summer Choral Institute is now available online!

Go to our homepage and click the "Summer Choral Institute 2008" link to get there. Or, if you must save yourself the extra click, just go right here.

According to the April newsletter, choir members will probably be getting some kind of discount code, so if you want to hold off on registering, do so. But don't hold off on sending the registration info to everyone you know and as many strangers as possible!

It looks to be a great summer of singing!

Sell those tickets!

2008-03-25T21:16:00.000-06:00

Our concert isn't until the beginning of May, which gives us plenty of time to sell every seat in the hall. Remember, as members of the choir we're eligible for tickets at a discount! The prices for Elijah are as follows:

General: $14.50 (regularly $18.75)
Student: $9.50 (regularly $12.75)

You can buy them online through our website or before rehearsal on Tuesdays.

You can also now take out tickets on consignment, meaning that you can take a chunk of tickets without paying for them and sell them, then bring the money back to choir. Don't lose the unsold tickets--you'll need to return them as well, or the choir mafia will come after you. Of course, this won't be a problem as I'm sure none of you will have any unsold tickets.

Also, remember that Jo has offered a prize to the section that sells the most tickets! This is generally a non-partisan blog, but allow me to cheer on the Altos!

Chamber Choir Recording

2008-03-05T17:48:00.000-07:00

The long-postponed recording session is finally happening.

Where: Libby Gardner Hall
When: This Saturday, March 8, from 12:00-4:00
What: Bring your Songs and Sonnets and Birthday Madrigals.

Don't forget!

When we're done, take a dinner break, and then come on back to the hall for the University Singers concert that night at 7:30. Hooray for supporting other organizations!

We have a newsletter!

2008-03-04T21:29:00.000-07:00

A big thank you goes out to Jan Smith who has put together a monthly SLCA newsletter! The first edition came out today, and it was stellar.

It includes highlights from the Tribune article, information about SLCA's past, present, and future, a member spotlight, and more!

If you didn't receive the email with the newsletter attached, please contact Jan at janice underscore w underscore smith at msn dot com, or Judy Prawitt (email on website) to let them know. They want to make sure everyone gets this marvelous piece of communication. And you don't want to miss out!

Thanks, Jan! We look forward to new issues!

Dr. Allred in the Trib

2008-02-25T20:21:00.000-07:00

Once again our fearless leader has made the news. There's a great article in Sunday's Salt Lake Tribune (February 24). Here's the link:

Chorus of praise for easygoing Allred

Some highlights:

"If conductors are supposed to be high-strung, volatile egotists, Brady Allred isn't living up to the standard.

"No one minds. The University of Utah's affable director of choral activities is defying other expectations - and his success is being noticed.

"In Utah, Allred is known for directing top-notch concerts and recordings with his university groups; effectively mentoring a new generation of choral conducting students; and raising the profile of the Salt Lake Choral Artists, a respected community choral organization. . . .

"Robert Walzel, director of the U.'s School of Music, said the two things that impress him most about Allred are the conductor's high degree of musicianship and his ability to motivate students. 'He has a gift for being able to blend work on fundamentals of singing in with whatever repertoire he is doing, and it's absolutely seamless,' Walzel said. 'He develops concepts of singing that allow choirs to learn new material quickly and at a high artistic level.'"

Read the rest at the link (before they archive it!). We're lucky to have him!

Optional Rehearsal and Location Change

2008-02-21T21:22:00.000-07:00

Here's some announcements from this week's rehearsal, in case you've forgotten or weren't there.

First, this Saturday, February 23, there is an optional rehearsal from 8:00-10:00 AM at Murray High School. They'll be singing some of the jazz repertoire we just performed, so if you want, grab your music and go make a friend (and potential audience member!).

On Tuesday, February 26, rehearsal will be at Murray High School. There is an early rehearsal that day from 3:30-5:00 (jazz rep) if you can make it. Otherwise, plan to be there at 7:00 ready to rehearse Elijah. Chamber Choir members should arrive at 6:30, in concert dress, ready to perform some of the jazz repertoire with Murray High.

Next Tuesday we'll be back at Olympus High.

All clear?

No Recording

2008-02-13T08:30:00.000-07:00

The recording listed as "possible" on the schedule for Saturday, February 16 from 9:00-1:00 has been cancelled. Rest your voices for the concert that night. Or better yet, use the time to call everyone you know and invite them to come!

Concert Week Schedule

2008-02-08T09:27:00.000-07:00

Our concert is this coming Saturday, February 16. In case you've misplaced your schedule and are unsure of the rehearsals this week, here's the info you should know:

Tuesday, February 12

Rehearsal at 7:00 in Libby Gardner Concert Hall. We'll begin with "Songs and Sonnets" and "Images." Then, at around 9:00, the Chamber Choir will rehearse "Birthday Madrigals." If you are not performing this work, you are welcome to stick around and listen or leave early.

Wednesday, February 13

There is NO CHAMBER CHOIR REHEARSAL this day. This is a change from the printed schedule, so take note!

Friday, February 15

Dress rehearsal at 7:00 in Libby Gardner Concert Hall. This is a musical dress, i.e., you don't need to actually dress in your concert attire.

Saturday, February 16

Concert night! Call is at 6:00 in Libby. Be dressed and in the hall on time. The concert will begin at 7:30.

Watch this space for any updated information between now and then, and tell your friends! This concert will be great!

Chamber Rehearsal

2008-02-05T23:08:00.000-07:00

February 6. You know the drill.

See you there!

Ticket Sales

2008-01-30T22:11:00.000-07:00

Good news! Tickets for the jazz concert will be made available at Tuesday night rehearsals beginning this coming week, February 5. The member discount is as follows:

General: $12 (regularly $15.75)
Student: $8 (regularly $10.75)

If you would like to buy tickets at rehearsal, please come between 6:30 and 7:00 so as to avoid the rush during break. No tickets will be sold once rehearsal begins. Make checks payable to Salt Lake Choral Artists.

Tickets can also still be purchased online via the website.

This is shaping up to be a great concert, so let's fill the hall!

Chamber Rehearsal

2008-01-29T08:36:00.000-07:00

There's a Chamber Choir rehearsal this Wednesday from 7:00-9:00 at Olympus High. Drive safely! The roads (and stairways) can be treacherous.

P.S. Name the reference and get a cookie!
P.P.S. Just kidding about the cookie.

Chamber Choir Rehearsal

2008-01-21T22:05:00.000-07:00

Don't forget that there is a rehearsal this Wednesday night from 7:00-9:00 at Olympus High School for Chamber Choir members.

No Recording

2008-01-17T09:27:00.000-07:00

In case you missed the announcement at the end of this week's rehearsal, there is no recording session for the Chamber Choir on Monday, January 21.

What's a kirtle, anyway?

2008-01-16T08:33:00.000-07:00

Let's face it. We weren't born in the 16th century and some Shakespearean language can be a little confusing. Archaic words and odd spellings can make it hard to understand exactly what you're singing about.

Maybe this will help.

Live with me and be my love
A kirtle is one of these. It's just the outermost layer of clothing. Myrtle is a variety of plant with shiny green leaves and often flowers. So, the line "A cap of flowers, and a kirtle embroidered all with leaves of myrtle" simply describes an embroidered piece of clothing.

Philomel refers to Philomela, who was the victim of some rather nasty Greek events which led to her losing her tongue and being turned into either a swallow or a nightingale, depending on the version of the myth you read. What exactly is meant by the line "And Philomel becometh dumb; the rest complains of cares to come" seems to be up to debate. Anyone have any interpretations?

(Incidentally, though Shearing attributes this text to Shakespeare, it's actually by one of his contemporaries, Christopher Marlowe (with a little bit by Sir Walter Raleigh in the "Birthday Madrigals" text). Rutter gets it right. If, however, you want to argue that Marlowe or Raleigh was Shakespeare...well, that's a whole other discussion.)

When daffodils begin to peer
According to The Riverside Shakespeare, pugging means thieving. This makes sense in the line "Doth set my pugging tooth an edge, for a quart of ale is a dish for a king" when you consider that this song is pretty much all about giving into your passions.

Spring/When daisies pied
In case you were wondering just exactly why the cuckoo is mocking married men, here's the short answer: cuckoos, along with many, many other things, were symbols of cuckoldry.

There's of course a lot of other stuff going on in these pieces, which can be discovered based on the poetry itself and, in the case of the Shakespearean texts, the context of the plays from which they come. For those of you that see this and think, "Ugh, I've never liked Shakespeare," don't worry---there won't be a test and you don't have to write an essay.

Welcome Back!

2008-01-15T08:43:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to the second half of our 2007-2008 season! Just a few reminders:

Rehearsals
Please be on time! It's disruptive for everyone if you have to climb over a bunch of people to get to the one empty seat in the back row. It's also hard to pick up any music you might be missing. Plus, if you're late, you won't get your massage!

Music
Everyone should now have copies of "Songs and Sonnets" by George Shearing, "Elijah" by Mendelssohn, and a photocopy of "No Words" by Rob Landes. Chamber Choir members should also have "Birthday Madrigals" by John Rutter. If you are missing any music, please talk to the librarians before or after rehearsal, or during the break. The librarians won't be passing out any music once rehearsal has begun.

Please bring all music to rehearsals, including "Elijah."

Concert Dates
Our first concert is not too far away: Saturday, February 16. This is the jazz concert, so make sure to be working on this music outside of rehearsal if you need to.

And tell your friends! This is going to be a fun concert that people won't want to miss.

With that business out of the way, here's some fun stuff:

Dr. Allred in the News
If you missed last week's rehearsal, you may not know that in The Salt Lake Tribune on December 29, Dr. Allred was named on a list of "Utah's top 25 cultural power brokers." The article reads, "In less than five years as director of choral studies at the University of Utah, Allred has led his U. of U. Singers to two international championships. His leadership of the Salt Lake Choral Artists has been similarly ambitious, and this year's inaugural edition of his Summer Choral Institute drew more than 1,000 singing enthusiasts to the U. campus."

Way to go, Dr. Allred!

Welcome to the choir blog!

2007-09-10T11:58:00.000-06:00

Everyone is free to comment on their shared experiences with membership in SLCA. We want to hear from you!

Choir management