Two decades after the death of internationally acclaimed U.S. composer Leonard Bernstein, the Edmonton Metropolitan Chorus (EMC) soars into their season with Brilliance of Bernstein this Saturday at All Saints Cathedral.
Under the baton of the eloquent David Garber, EMC sings excerpts from several of Bernstein's highlights: the Chichester Psalms, MASS and West Side Story.
“He was a wonderful musician and probably best known as conductor of the New York Philharmonic. The little compositions he wrote turned out to be staples of classical music,” says Garber.
While many think of classical music as an older form, Garber defines it as, “Music that is formally written down and therefore can be accurately performed according to the composer's wishes.”
The chorus introduces the concert with Chichester Psalms, a work of extremely interesting rhythms and beautiful melodies that are Bernstein's testament to peace. “But it's very challenging for them. The pitch is set very high for them especially for tenors, bass and altos.”
The story is actually told from a sheep's point of view and how life under a shepherd is a peaceful existence. “It's interplayed with violence, warfare and rulers of different tribes and nations plotting against each other.”
Daniel Garber, 7, Garber's nephew makes his debut as the treble soloist. “He has a tremendous voice, so clear and true. It's so rare to hear a boy as treble soloist and that alone is worth the ticket price.”
The second selection is excerpts from MASS originally commissioned by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to commemorate the opening of the John F. Kennedy Centre in Washington, D.C.
The controversial work was in part an anti-war statement that fused texts of Latin liturgy, Hebrew prayer and English lyrics backed by a rock band. “It has a popular sixties element.”
Garber suggests that soprano Janet Smith and tenor/guitarist Caleb Nelson will be singing in a more stripped down, laid-back style reminiscent of Bob Dylan and Joan Baez.
Closing the 50-minute concert is select songs from West Side Story. “I like the jazz elements, the melody, the rhythm and the text by Stephen Sondheim, written early in his career.”
Special guest musicians include Nora Baumanis (harp), Jeremy Spurgeon (organ) and Maynor Salyn (percussion).
Tickets are $10 to $15. Call 780-420-1757 or online at www.tixonthesquare.ca.
Preview
Brilliance of Bernstein<br />Edmonton Metropolitan Chorus<br />Saturday, November 27 at 8 p.m.<br />All Saints Anglican Cathedral<br />10035 - 103 Street<br />Tickets: $10 to $12/advance; $12 to $15/door. Call 780-420-1757 or purchase online at www.tixonthesquare.ca
