ALLIANCE (Ohio) —The University of Mount Union Concert Choir, under the direction of Dr. Grant W. Cook III, will perform on Thursday, May 18 at 7:30 p.m. in Riverside United Methodist Church, 712 16th Street. The performance, which is free and open to the public, includes works by Hans Leo Hassler, Michael John Trotta, Pētris Vasks, Ēriks Ešenvalds, Srul Irving Glick, Peter Angela, and Jacob Narverud, among others.
The University of Mount Union Concert Choir is among the oldest collegiate choirs in the United States, tracing its roots to 1896. The distinguished legacy of the choral program at Mount Union is one that is deeply rooted in the very history of the institution, encompassing the contributions of several distinguished American conductors, including Robert Fountain (1942-1946), who went on to lead renowned choral programs at the Oberlin College Conservatory of Music and The University of Wisconsin, and Bruce Browne (1972-1976), emeritus professor of choral studies and voice at Portland State University and conductor laureate of the Portland Symphonic Choir. Under the direction of Cecil “Pop” Stewart (1946-1972) the Concert Choir gained international acclaim. In 1966, the beloved Stewart led the Choir on an around-the–world-tour. Dubbed “Peace Through Understanding,” the 48-day tour visited Alaska, Japan, Southeast Asia, Near East, Greece, Italy, England and France. Professor Stewart was known for his exacting standard, inspired leadership and, above all, unwavering devotion to Mount Union.
Open by audition to all students on campus, the Concert Choir comprises musicians from a wide variety of academic disciplines and thus truly represents the University’s strong liberal arts foundation. Serving as an ambassador of the University, the Concert Choir performs annually throughout the continental United States and undertakes an international tour every four years. The Concert Choir is dedicated to the rehearsal and performance of the highest quality choral literature from the Renaissance through the 21st century, including spirituals, gospel music, folk songs and music celebrating a global perspective. Recent performances include Joseph Haydn’s Mass in B-flat, the so-called Theresienmesse, Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 (“Resurrection”) and Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 in D minor, op. 125 and “Choral Fantasy” in C minor, op. 180 with the Canton Symphony Orchestra and Chorus under the baton of Maestro Gerhardt Zimmermann.
For details about the concert at Riverside United Methodist Church call 309.764.6721.
