February 15, 2019
Take a look back over 400 years of music with SIU’s Concert Choir
CARBONDALE, Ill. — A reflection on life’s blessings is the theme of Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s upcoming Spring Concert Choir performance.
The event is set for 7:30 p.m. on March 7 and will feature over 35 students from across all degree majors on campus. Held at the Epiphany Lutheran Church on 1501 W. Chautauqua St., Carbondale, the concert is free and open to the community.
Combining over 400 years of music
The fun concert combines a great variety of musical selections that all speak about the things that bless us, and how we can bless others. With pieces sung in three different languages and spanning over 400 years of musical history, it is a perfect evening for the whole family.
As a mixed ensemble with a long-standing tradition at SIU, the concert choir works to bring well-crafted music to the community, explained Susan Davenport, director of choral activities.
“People will hear music all the way from the Renaissance, to a fun little arrangement of a popular childhood song,” Davenport said. “There is great variety in this concert.”
Whether the music is from 400 years ago or just last month, the goal is to create a beautiful atmosphere that people will leave feeling encouraged and grateful, Davenport explained.
Jenny Kirby will accompany the group on the piano and organ, while students will join in on the violin, cello, percussions and special solos.
Preparing for two other spring events
The spring concert serves as a precursor to two other upcoming musical events this spring. The SIU Concert Choir will accompany the Southern Illinois Dance Company for a unique performance on April 12-13 at Shryock Auditorium. The two groups will connect live music with the dance concert in a fun and upbeat collaboration that is all new to SIU.
The semester will conclude with a monumental performance of “Verdi Requiem,” a historic work from the Romantic era. Southeast Missouri State University will join SIU’s Symphony Orchestra, Choral Union and Chamber Singers for the event on April 25 at Shryock Auditorium.
Tickets for “Verdi Requiem” are available now at events.siu.edu.