Minneapolis, MN (February 3, 2011) – VocalEssence and American Composers Forum announce the selection of four emerging composers to participate in the 2011 Essentially Choral reading session. The public is invited to attend a working rehearsal of the composers’ new music for voices and instruments on Saturday, February 19th (10 am-1 pm) at Sundin Music Hall on the Hamline University campus (1536 Hewitt Avenue, Saint Paul). No ticket is required for this free session. The program is sponsored by the Jerome Foundation.

Essentially Choral provides an opportunity for emerging composers to develop their skills in writing for choral ensemble, either a cappella or with instruments. The 32-voice professional VocalEssence Ensemble Singers (and instrumentalists, if called for) will rehearse these 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 composer-mentor Adolphus Hailstork will also provide personal mentoring along with professional development sessions to the composers.

Composers selected for the 2011 Essentially Choral program are:
 
Marie Incontrera (Brooklyn, NY): Little Orphan Annie
Linda Kachelmeier (St. Paul, MN): O Vos Omnes
Norman Mathews (New York, NY): Sonnet No. 61
Paul J. Rudoi (Richfield, MN): I Carry Your Heart with Me

For more information about Essentially Choral, contact VocalEssence Director of Community Engagement Kimberly Meisten (612-547-1456, kmeisten@vocalessence.org). For additional press information, contact Malia Cole (612-547-1459 or mcole@vocalessence.org).

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