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Singing the classics

Minot Chamber Chorale presents ‘A Classical Masterpiece Concert’

Submitted Photo Throughout their masterful showcase, the Minot Chamber Chorale will perform spirited vocals that captures the dynamic spectrum of human emotions ranging from Alice Parker’s “Heavenly Hurt: Songs of Love and Loss” to Rene Clausen’s “Festival Te Deum.”

Melodic vocals accompanied by spirited rhythms and harmonies will resonate throughout Ann Nicole Nelson Hall, as the Minot Chamber Chorale presents “A Classical Masterpiece Concert” Sunday, Feb. 26 at Minot State University.

Throughout their masterful showcase, concertgoers can anticipate the dynamic spectrum of human emotions ranging from Alice Parker’s “Heavenly Hurt: Songs of Love and Loss” to Rene Clausen’s “Festival Te Deum.”

At 3 p.m., spectators can experience the polyphonic prowess of Z. Randall Stroope’s “Winter” along with the musicianship of pianist Jazmine Massingill, cellist Jonathon Clark and organist Kari Files throughout the concert.

Bob Demke, director of the Minot Chamber Chorale, expressed confidence that audience members will enjoy the myriad of melodies and robust harmonies performed by the celebrated choir.

“It’ll be an exciting listening experience for the audience,” Demke said. “Particularly, since we’re pairing the choir with organ accompaniment by Kari Files, a talented organist.”

During their first performance, the Minot Chamber Chorale will sing “Festival Te Deum,” a popular hymn layered with traditional musicality.

Described by Demke as rhythmic and harmonious, “Festival Te Deum” is one of the latest works of Clausen, a Grammy Award winning composer.

“‘Festival Te Deum’ is a heartfelt expression of faith and praise,” Demke said. “As the title suggests, it’s a festive piece full of joy and conviction.”

During their first performance, the Minot Chamber Chorale will sing “Festival Te Deum,” a popular hymn layered with traditional musicality.

After experiencing the lively choral arrangement of “Festival Te Deum,” the Minot Chamber Chorale will transition into a somber state of music inspired by poems written by Emily Dickinson.

“Dickinson wrote eloquently on the subject of grief and loss, with poems that often had a whimsical or ironic twist,” Demke said. “Parker’s writing captures the range of moods from reflective meditation to a dignified chorale to an almost dancing lilt. The Stark piano-cello accompaniment fits the tone of the piece perfectly.”

Parker’s “Heavenly Hurt: Songs of Love and Loss,” is a choral odyssey that captures the intensity of Dickinson’s sorrow.

To close the choral masterpiece, the Minot Chamber Chorale will conclude with the melodic and polyphonic piece titled “Winter,” by Stroope.

Noted for it’s melodically rich work, Demke revealed that “Winter” is a choral story that shares the love and gradual separation between two people.

“A Classical Masterpiece Concert” is open to the public with no admission charge. A free-will offering will be taken during intermission.

For more information about the Minot Chamber Chorale, visit www.minotchamberchorale.org/.

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