Hailed by the Minneapolis Star Tribune as “singing impeccably, making even the most complex harmonies sound transparent” and performing with “consummate professionalism,” the VocalEssence Chorus is an exceptional group of talented, committed singers from many walks of life. Equally at ease sharing the stage with famous guest artists such as Dessa and Sweet Honey In The… Read More →
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Minnesota is home to one of the truly international gems in choral music—the VocalEssence Ensemble Singers. This 32-voice professional chorus sings under the direction of VocalEssence founder Philip Brunelle and associate conductor G. Phillip Shoultz III. In addition to the full biographies provided above, we offer the following resources for your consideration: Sample program and audio… Read More →
1969 Philip Brunelle founds the Plymouth Church Music Series. 1970 Aaron Copland conducts a performance of his choral works aptly titled “In the Beginning.” 1973 Dominick Argento composes Jonah and the Whale, the first VocalEssence commission. 1973 Dave Brubeck Jazz legend performs the Midwest premiere of his To Hope: A Celebration. 1974 Garrison Keillor features… Read More →
In addition to championing lesser-known works of the past, VocalEssence has an unwavering commitment to today’s composers, which has resulted in more than 140 world premieres to date. The organization has received the ASCAP/Chorus America Award for adventurous programming of contemporary music six times and has been honored with more Chorus America awards than any… Read More →
After more than 50 years of championing the power act of singing together, VocalEssence has been recognized by organizations around the world. We received the ASCAP/Chorus America Award for adventurous programming of contemporary music six times and has been honored with more Chorus America awards than any other ensemble nationwide, including the once-in-an-organizational-lifetime Margaret Hillis… Read More →
Our staff is small but mighty. A combination of well-known leaders in the music industry, experts in non-profit management, and administrative dynamos, we ensure VocalEssence lives up to its reputation as one of the leading arts organizations in the nation. Take a minute to learn more about us. Artistic Staff (biographies) Philip Brunelle, Artistic Director… Read More →
The VocalEssence Board of Directors serve as ambassadors for the organization in the larger community. They also guide VocalEssence in all major policy decisions while ensuring the financial stability of VocalEssence. Board Officers Carolina Maranon-Cobos, President Program Manager, Institute for Advanced Study, University of Minnesota Torrie Allen, Vice President President and CEO, Arts Midwest Daniel Fernelius,… Read More →
By Ross Raihala Posted: 3/8/2013 Pioneer Press/TwinCities.com VocalEssence has announced its 45th season and no one is happier to hit that milestone than founder and artistic director Philip Brunelle. “For me, it means I’m halfway to 90 years,” he said. “I’m going to do this forever. There’s so much more choral music that needs to… Read More →
Review by: Basil Considine for TC Daily Planet Posted on: March 24, 2014 Central Lutheran Church in downtown Minneapolis had a festive atmosphere Friday night, as VocalEssence presented “John Rutter Jubilee,” a powerful tribute to the dean of English choral music. The program, organized by VocalEssence music director Philip Brunelle, offered a wide survey of… Read More →
By William Randall Beard Special to the Star Tribune Posted: March 22, 2014 VocalEssence kicked off its three-day concert series celebrating the music of John Rutter on Friday night. Many filled the pews early to hear a discussion of the musical program and VocalEssence’s upcoming 2014-2015 season. One of the originally planned features of this concert was that… Read More →
CONTACT: Jennifer Weismann 612-716-0556 Jennifer@owl-marketing.com Twin Cities choral organization announces season of fresh collaborations, including choral premiere from hip hop artist Dessa — and a tribute to P.D.Q. Bach MINNEAPOLIS — March 21, 2014 —Acclaimed Minneapolis-based choral ensemble VocalEssence — recognized internationally for its innovative explorations of music — announces a captivating 46th season of concerts.… Read More →
VOCALESSENCE CONNECTS VIBRANT MUSIC OF MEXICO TO AREA SCHOOLS ¡Cantaré! delivers original works by Twin Cities students, Mexican composers with lively Ordway community concert on May 20 MINNEAPOLIS— March 5, 2014—The musical spirit of Mexico will be celebrated by VocalEssence and area school children on Tuesday, May 20 at 7 p.m. in a family-friendly, bilingual performance at the… Read More →
January 7, 2014 VocalEssence Patron, We are very excited to create spectacular John Rutter Jubilee performances this March. And, as the date of the concerts approaches, I’d like to take a moment to make sure that you are one of the first people aware of a change. John Rutter was originally scheduled to conduct these… Read More →
