Submitted by Deirdre Roberts and Joyce Kirkpatrick
One defining feature of a fine choral
group lies in the ensemble’s ability to shift convincingly from the
stylistic differences of one composer’s music to that of another.
The Greater Middletown Chorale flourishes with varied programming.
Joseph D’Eugenio (pictured), now in his
fifteenth year as artistic director of the GMC, has selected an
ambitious program containing pieces by Bernstein, Britten, and Brahms
for the group’s concert at 7:00 p.m. on May 12th at the
Bethany Covenant Church in Berlin, CT.
With customary enthusiasm, Mr.
D’Eugenio offers: “One of the exciting parts about the GMC is
that the singers are open to performing established choral repertoire
by known composers and premiering new works by contemporary
composers. This chorale distinguishes itself by varied programming.
In this concert we have large ensemble pieces such as the Chichester
Psalms by Bernstein and Nänie by Johannes Brahms, but we
also have Rejoice in the Lamb by Britten. This is performed by
a chamber group of just sixteen singers, joined by a boy soprano and
a harpist. Also, there is a trio comprised of a soprano, cello and
piano performing the gorgeous pair of Op. 91 songs by Brahms. This
kind of programming is stimulating for the ensemble and audience
alike. ”
