"Essentially Choral" reading session held in April, 2009

Essentially Choral provides an opportunity for emerging composers to develop their skills in writing for choral ensemble, either a cappella or with instruments. During the weekend of April 16-18, 2009, the 32-voice professional VocalEssence Ensemble Singers (and instrumentalists, if called for) participated in a public rehearsal of seven works-in-progress, allowing the composers the unique opportunity to hear their new music performed before it is finalized. VocalEssence Artistic Director Philip Brunelle and internationally recognized composer Steven Sametz also provided personal mentoring sessions and professional development seminars to the composers. Additionally, VocalEssence Ensemble Singer Krista J. Palmquist offered the composers a voice class, which aimed to further their skills in writing for singers.

Composers selected for the 2009 Essentially Choral program are:

• Timothy A. Berry, Waconia, MN—Unfolding Amen (a cappella)

• Matthew Brown, Los Angeles, CA—(though love be a day) (a cappella)

• Rebekah Driscoll, Brooklyn, NY—Voices of Quiet Joy (a cappella)

• Thomas Fielding, Raleigh, NC—Madrigals on Epigrams to Priapus (a cappella)

• Joni Greene, Bloomington, IN—Autumn Reflections (a cappella)

• Bill Kempe, Maplewood, MN—“Winter Chaconne” from Winter Songs (two percussionists, guitar – classical and electric, bass – acoustic and electric, synthesizer)

• Timothy Jon Tharaldson, Berthoud, CO—The Solitary Reaper (electro acoustic accompaniment on CD)

The program is co-sponsored by American Composers Forum and VocalEssence with the generous support of the Jerome Foundation and the Aaron Copland Fund for Music.

For more information about Essentially Choral, contact VocalEssence Director of Community Engagement Kimberly Meisten (612-547-1456, kmeisten@vocalessence.org).