Music Through the Ages

Choir performs spring repertoire

excerpts by Meghan Shruck—Panther Press

The Concert Choir's hard work and long rehearsals paid dividends as they performed their Spring Works for the campus and community Monday night. This year's theme was "Music Through the Ages," with pieces ranging from Renaissance to 20th Century works.

"This concert involved a lot more coordinating," explained Choir Director Dr. Clark Roush. "It's a bit more complex with many soloists, instruments, and the accompanist, requiring a lot of extra rehearsals." Accompanied by pianist, Mrs. Kay Magner, the pieces were sung in Latin, German, Italian, and English.

The opening number of the concert was Gregorio Allegri's Miserere mei, Deus featuring the student quartet of Matt Carlson, Erich Loper, Renee Willard, and Dave Young.  From the Baroque period, Vivaldi's Gloria featured a trio ensemble made up of Dr. Adrienne Dickson, Kathey Stewart, and Renee Willard.

An audience favorite was John Rutter's humorous piece The Reluctant Dragon orginally written for The King's Singers. A classic children's story set to music included four character roles. Mitchell Roush narrated the story, while the dragon (Jason Hernandez) interacted with the boy (Kayla Lawrence) and St. George the Dragon Slayer (Matt Ward).

Dr. Roush and the choir turned in a spectacular performance of challenging pieces for their annual year-end concert. The auditorium of the First Presbyterian Church was at near capacity and the music was heavenly.

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