Complete Repertoire and Soloists: 2011-Present
Patrick Godon, Music Director: 2011-Present
Jeremy Zimmer, Accompanist: 2022-Present
Jim Molina, Accompanist: 2021
Dennis Zimmer, Accompanist: 1998-2020
Music of Liszt: The Sacred and the Profane
April 7, 2024 - Concordia University Chapel of Our Lord
Missa Solemnis by Franz Liszt
Members of the Tower Chorale with the Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest
Missa Solemnis by Franz Liszt
Members of the Tower Chorale with the Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest
Requiem for My Friend
March 2 & 3, 2024 - Emmanuel Episcopal Church
CONCERT ORDER
Requiem for My Friend, Zbigniew Preisner (First part)
Officium (p. 1)
Kyrie (p. 3)
Dies Irae (p. 9)
Offertorium (p. 14)
Sanctus (p. 17)
Agnus Dei (p. 23)
Communio (p. 26)
Lacrimosa (p. 29)
Epitafium (p. 33, organ solo)
Sarah Schroeder, soprano soloist
INTERMISSION
Vesperae Solennes de Confessore, K. 339, Wolgang Amadeus Mozart
Dixit (p. 2)
Confitebor (p. 13)
Beatus vir (p. 24)
Laudate pueri (p. 38)
Laudate Dominum (p. 48)
Sarah Schroeder, soprano soloist
Magnificat (p. 54)
Section leaders and soloists:
Sarah Schroeder, soprano
Daina Fischer, alto
Madison Bolt, tenor
Joseph Ryan, bass
International Chamber Artists
Azusa Tashiro, violin
Jacob Murphy, violin
Melissa Bach, cello
Wes Jones, bass
Mark Linley, percussion & timpani
Jeremy Zimmer, organ
CONCERT ORDER
Requiem for My Friend, Zbigniew Preisner (First part)
Officium (p. 1)
Kyrie (p. 3)
Dies Irae (p. 9)
Offertorium (p. 14)
Sanctus (p. 17)
Agnus Dei (p. 23)
Communio (p. 26)
Lacrimosa (p. 29)
Epitafium (p. 33, organ solo)
Sarah Schroeder, soprano soloist
INTERMISSION
Vesperae Solennes de Confessore, K. 339, Wolgang Amadeus Mozart
Dixit (p. 2)
Confitebor (p. 13)
Beatus vir (p. 24)
Laudate pueri (p. 38)
Laudate Dominum (p. 48)
Sarah Schroeder, soprano soloist
Magnificat (p. 54)
Section leaders and soloists:
Sarah Schroeder, soprano
Daina Fischer, alto
Madison Bolt, tenor
Joseph Ryan, bass
International Chamber Artists
Azusa Tashiro, violin
Jacob Murphy, violin
Melissa Bach, cello
Wes Jones, bass
Mark Linley, percussion & timpani
Jeremy Zimmer, organ
A Festive Nowell
December 2 & 3, 2023 - Emmanuel Episcopal Church
CONCERT ORDER
Il Est Né – Mark Hayes
The Darkest Midnight in December – Stephen Main
Three Carols: Tyrley Tyrlow, Balulalow, and The Sycamore Tree – Peter Warlock
Soloist: Beth Hallworth, soprano
O Magnum Mysterium – Michael John Trotta
Soloist: Sarah Schroeder, soprano
The First Nowell – arr. by Mack Wilberg
(Sing along with the first 2 vs; TB vs 1, SA vs 2, Choir alone vs 3)
Rejoice in the Lamb – Benjamin Britten
Soloists: Sarah Schroeder, soprano; Daina Fischer, mezzo; Madison Bolt, tenor; Joseph Ryan, bass
INTERMISSION
[Two songs by the children's choir from Hinsdale Adventist Academy, Flora Rivera, Music Director:
Angel's Carol – John Rutter
Brightly, Brightly from Chimes in the Night – Allen Pote]
Infant Holy, Infant Lowly (SSAA + Children's Choir) – David Hamilton
Nowell, Nowell, Nowell – Elizabeth Maconchy (1907-1994)
Good Christian Men, Rejoice (TTBB) – David Hamilton
The Twelve Days After Christmas – Frederick Silver
Carol Medley – James Winfield (Sing along)
Includes:
O Come, O Come Emmanuel
O Little Town
Angels We Have Heard on High
Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
What Child Is This?
Away in a Manger (2 settings)
Silent Night
O Come All Ye Faithful
Festival Alleluias (Set to Toccata from Symphony No. 5 by Charles-Marie Widor) – William Ferris
ENCORE: Merry Christmas, Mozart – Jay Althouse
Section leaders:
Sarah Schroeder, soprano
Daina Fischer, alto
Madison Bolt, tenor
Joseph Ryan, bass
Azusa Tashiro, violin
Jeremy Zimmer, organ & piano
Back to top
CONCERT ORDER
Il Est Né – Mark Hayes
The Darkest Midnight in December – Stephen Main
Three Carols: Tyrley Tyrlow, Balulalow, and The Sycamore Tree – Peter Warlock
Soloist: Beth Hallworth, soprano
O Magnum Mysterium – Michael John Trotta
Soloist: Sarah Schroeder, soprano
The First Nowell – arr. by Mack Wilberg
(Sing along with the first 2 vs; TB vs 1, SA vs 2, Choir alone vs 3)
Rejoice in the Lamb – Benjamin Britten
Soloists: Sarah Schroeder, soprano; Daina Fischer, mezzo; Madison Bolt, tenor; Joseph Ryan, bass
INTERMISSION
[Two songs by the children's choir from Hinsdale Adventist Academy, Flora Rivera, Music Director:
Angel's Carol – John Rutter
Brightly, Brightly from Chimes in the Night – Allen Pote]
Infant Holy, Infant Lowly (SSAA + Children's Choir) – David Hamilton
Nowell, Nowell, Nowell – Elizabeth Maconchy (1907-1994)
Good Christian Men, Rejoice (TTBB) – David Hamilton
The Twelve Days After Christmas – Frederick Silver
Carol Medley – James Winfield (Sing along)
Includes:
O Come, O Come Emmanuel
O Little Town
Angels We Have Heard on High
Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
What Child Is This?
Away in a Manger (2 settings)
Silent Night
O Come All Ye Faithful
Festival Alleluias (Set to Toccata from Symphony No. 5 by Charles-Marie Widor) – William Ferris
ENCORE: Merry Christmas, Mozart – Jay Althouse
Section leaders:
Sarah Schroeder, soprano
Daina Fischer, alto
Madison Bolt, tenor
Joseph Ryan, bass
Azusa Tashiro, violin
Jeremy Zimmer, organ & piano
Back to top
Totally Tubular Tunes
Radical Music of the '80s
May 20 & 21, 2023 - First United Methodist Church of La Grange
CONCERT ORDER
All Night Long (1983), Lionel Richie/Arr. by Mark Brymer
Start Me Up (1981) (The Rolling Stones) / Livin' on a Prayer (1986)(Bon Jovi) - (SSA) GLEE mash up, Arr. by Adam Anders, Tim Davis & Ed Lojeski
Total Eclipse of the Heart (1983), by Bonnie Tyler & Jim Steinman; Arr. by Aldo Martinez
Africa (1982) (with rainstorm), by Toto's David Paich and Jeff Porcaro; arr. by Roger Emerson
Ben Adair & Adam Rettberg
Awesome '80s, Arr. by Mark Brymer
Songs include: Our Lips Are Sealed (1981); Walk Like an Egyptian (1986); Jessie's Girl (1981); Mickey (1981); Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)(1983); Whip It (1980); Call Me (1980); The Look of Love (1982); Girls Just Want To Have Fun (1983); Everybody Have Fun Tonight (1986, Wang Chung)
INTERMISSION
Karma Chameleon (1983), by Culture Club; Arr. by Ed Alcroft
Kyrie (1985), by Mr. Mister; Arr. by Kirby Shaw
Eye of the Tiger (1982), by Survivor; Arr. by Kirby Shaw
We Belong (1984), by Pat Benatar; Arr. by Mark Brymer
Jen Hendricks, alto
Faith (1987), by George Michael, Arr. by Kohl Kitzmiller (TTBB)
Like, Totally '80s, Arr. by Mark Brymer
Songs include: It's Still Rock and Roll to Me (1980, Billy Joel), Take On Me (1985, A-ha), Goody Two Shoes (1982), (There's) Always Something There to Remind Me (1983, Naked Eyes), The Reflex (1983, Duran Duran), She Drives Me Crazy (1989, Fine Young Cannibals), She Blinded Me with Science (1982, Thomas Dolby), The Safety Dance (1982, Men Without Hats "We can dance if we want to") and Walking on Sunshine (1982, Katrina and the Waves)
ENCORE:
I Just Called to Say I Love You (1984), by Stevie Wonder; Arr. by Paris Rutherford
Mark McCauley, baritone
Band:
Devin Foster, bass
Tim Berg, drums
Jeremy Zimmer, piano & saxophone
Mark McCauley, piano
May 20 & 21, 2023 - First United Methodist Church of La Grange
CONCERT ORDER
All Night Long (1983), Lionel Richie/Arr. by Mark Brymer
Start Me Up (1981) (The Rolling Stones) / Livin' on a Prayer (1986)(Bon Jovi) - (SSA) GLEE mash up, Arr. by Adam Anders, Tim Davis & Ed Lojeski
Total Eclipse of the Heart (1983), by Bonnie Tyler & Jim Steinman; Arr. by Aldo Martinez
Africa (1982) (with rainstorm), by Toto's David Paich and Jeff Porcaro; arr. by Roger Emerson
Ben Adair & Adam Rettberg
Awesome '80s, Arr. by Mark Brymer
Songs include: Our Lips Are Sealed (1981); Walk Like an Egyptian (1986); Jessie's Girl (1981); Mickey (1981); Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)(1983); Whip It (1980); Call Me (1980); The Look of Love (1982); Girls Just Want To Have Fun (1983); Everybody Have Fun Tonight (1986, Wang Chung)
INTERMISSION
Karma Chameleon (1983), by Culture Club; Arr. by Ed Alcroft
Kyrie (1985), by Mr. Mister; Arr. by Kirby Shaw
Eye of the Tiger (1982), by Survivor; Arr. by Kirby Shaw
We Belong (1984), by Pat Benatar; Arr. by Mark Brymer
Jen Hendricks, alto
Faith (1987), by George Michael, Arr. by Kohl Kitzmiller (TTBB)
Like, Totally '80s, Arr. by Mark Brymer
Songs include: It's Still Rock and Roll to Me (1980, Billy Joel), Take On Me (1985, A-ha), Goody Two Shoes (1982), (There's) Always Something There to Remind Me (1983, Naked Eyes), The Reflex (1983, Duran Duran), She Drives Me Crazy (1989, Fine Young Cannibals), She Blinded Me with Science (1982, Thomas Dolby), The Safety Dance (1982, Men Without Hats "We can dance if we want to") and Walking on Sunshine (1982, Katrina and the Waves)
ENCORE:
I Just Called to Say I Love You (1984), by Stevie Wonder; Arr. by Paris Rutherford
Mark McCauley, baritone
Band:
Devin Foster, bass
Tim Berg, drums
Jeremy Zimmer, piano & saxophone
Mark McCauley, piano
Berlioz Te Deum
WITH THE SYMPHONY OF OAK PARK RIVER FOREST
Jay Friedman, conductor
Patrick Godon, organ
Christian Ketter, tenor
City Voices, William Chin, conductor
Evanston Children's Choir, Gary Geiger, Artistic Director
Pro Musica Youth Chorus, Laura Pinto, Artistic Director
Schola Cantorum of Concordia University, Maurice Boyer, Director
South Holland Master Chorale, Philip J. Bauman, Director
Spirito! Singers, Bravura, Ragazze, and Men of Spirito!, Carling Fitzsimmons, Artistic Director
Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest Chorus, William Chin, Director
Tower Chorale, Patrick Godon, Music Director
April 3, 2023 - Orchestra Hall, Chicago
Te Deum by Hector Berlioz
Jay Friedman, conductor
Patrick Godon, organ
Christian Ketter, tenor
City Voices, William Chin, conductor
Evanston Children's Choir, Gary Geiger, Artistic Director
Pro Musica Youth Chorus, Laura Pinto, Artistic Director
Schola Cantorum of Concordia University, Maurice Boyer, Director
South Holland Master Chorale, Philip J. Bauman, Director
Spirito! Singers, Bravura, Ragazze, and Men of Spirito!, Carling Fitzsimmons, Artistic Director
Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest Chorus, William Chin, Director
Tower Chorale, Patrick Godon, Music Director
April 3, 2023 - Orchestra Hall, Chicago
Te Deum by Hector Berlioz
Bruckner Mass in E Minor
March 11 & 12, 2023 - Emmanuel Episcopal Church
CONCERT ORDER
How Firm a Foundation, Arr. by Leo Nestor
Stephanie Schoenhofer, alto
Agnus Dei/Lacrimosa, by Albinoni/Giazotto; Arr. by Patrick Godon & Anastasia Cameron Balmer
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing, Arr. by Leo Nestor
SHORT INTERMISSION
Mass in E Minor, Anton Bruckner
I. Kyrie
II. Gloria
III. Credo
IV. Sanctus
V. Benedictus
VI. Agnus Dei
Section Leaders:
Sarah Schroder, S1
Amanda Kohl, S2
Daina Fischer, A1
Stephanie Schoenhofer, A2
Madison Bolt, T1
Jim Yarbrough, T2
Joe Ryan, B1
Jess Koehn, B2
International Chamber Artists Wind Ensemble
Laura Perkett, oboe
J. Ricardo Castaneda, oboe
Barbara Drapcho, clarinet
Jennifer Woodrum, clarinet
Jon Schuler, bassoon
Liam Jackson, bassoon
Dan O'Connell, horn
Renee Vogen, horn
Emily Whitaker, horn
Christian Anderson, trumpet
Ryan Hobbs, trumpet
Rachel Castellanos, trombone
Ian Fitzwater, trombone
Darren Castellanos, bass trombone
Jeremy Zimmer, organ
CONCERT ORDER
How Firm a Foundation, Arr. by Leo Nestor
Stephanie Schoenhofer, alto
Agnus Dei/Lacrimosa, by Albinoni/Giazotto; Arr. by Patrick Godon & Anastasia Cameron Balmer
Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing, Arr. by Leo Nestor
SHORT INTERMISSION
Mass in E Minor, Anton Bruckner
I. Kyrie
II. Gloria
III. Credo
IV. Sanctus
V. Benedictus
VI. Agnus Dei
Section Leaders:
Sarah Schroder, S1
Amanda Kohl, S2
Daina Fischer, A1
Stephanie Schoenhofer, A2
Madison Bolt, T1
Jim Yarbrough, T2
Joe Ryan, B1
Jess Koehn, B2
International Chamber Artists Wind Ensemble
Laura Perkett, oboe
J. Ricardo Castaneda, oboe
Barbara Drapcho, clarinet
Jennifer Woodrum, clarinet
Jon Schuler, bassoon
Liam Jackson, bassoon
Dan O'Connell, horn
Renee Vogen, horn
Emily Whitaker, horn
Christian Anderson, trumpet
Ryan Hobbs, trumpet
Rachel Castellanos, trombone
Ian Fitzwater, trombone
Darren Castellanos, bass trombone
Jeremy Zimmer, organ
What Sweeter Music
December 3 & 4, 2022 - Emmanuel Episcopal Church
CONCERT ORDER
Carol of the Bells, Arr. by Wilhousky
What Sweeter Music, by John Rutter
The Song of Moses, by Patrick Godon
Once in Royal David’s City, Arr. by Howard Helvey (TB)
O Holy Night, Arr. by Brian Luckner
Mary Speaks, by Daniel E. Gawthrop (SSAA)
A Holly and Jolly Sing-Along! by James M. Stephenson
Deck the Hall
Jingle Bells
The Holly and the Ivy
Jolly Old St. Nicholas
Frosty the Snowman
Up On the Housetop
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Joy to the World
We Wish You a Merry Christmas
INTERMISSION
Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town, Arr. by Randall Johnson
Jen Hendricks, alto
Rose of Sharon, Arr. by Patti Drennan
Marianne Chybik, alto
Pavane for a Silent Night (Based on the Ravel Pavane), Arr. by Patrick Liebergen
Carol of the Birds, Arr. by Craig Courtney
Totus Tuus, by Henryk Górecki
ENCORE:
We Deck You a Merry Manger, Arr. by Jonathan Miller
Eliza Bangert, flute
Jeremy Zimmer, organ & piano
Back to top
CONCERT ORDER
Carol of the Bells, Arr. by Wilhousky
What Sweeter Music, by John Rutter
The Song of Moses, by Patrick Godon
Once in Royal David’s City, Arr. by Howard Helvey (TB)
O Holy Night, Arr. by Brian Luckner
Mary Speaks, by Daniel E. Gawthrop (SSAA)
A Holly and Jolly Sing-Along! by James M. Stephenson
Deck the Hall
Jingle Bells
The Holly and the Ivy
Jolly Old St. Nicholas
Frosty the Snowman
Up On the Housetop
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Joy to the World
We Wish You a Merry Christmas
INTERMISSION
Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town, Arr. by Randall Johnson
Jen Hendricks, alto
Rose of Sharon, Arr. by Patti Drennan
Marianne Chybik, alto
Pavane for a Silent Night (Based on the Ravel Pavane), Arr. by Patrick Liebergen
Carol of the Birds, Arr. by Craig Courtney
Totus Tuus, by Henryk Górecki
ENCORE:
We Deck You a Merry Manger, Arr. by Jonathan Miller
Eliza Bangert, flute
Jeremy Zimmer, organ & piano
Back to top
Rock the Tower
May 14 & 15, 2022 - Western Springs Christian Reformed Church
CONCERT ORDER
If I Fell by the Beatles
After the Gold Rush by Neil Young, arr. by Peter Knight
Amanda Hanson, alto
I'm Still Standing by Elton John, arr. by Pete Schmutte
Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me by Elton John (SSA)
Joanie Rae Wimmer, tenor
Your Song by Elton John, arr. by Mac Huff
Mary Ubatuba, alto
Rocket Man by Elton John, arr. by Chris Lowry
Jim Yarbrough, tenor
You've Got a Friend by Carole King, arr. by Mac Huff
Lucia Sartori, soprano
Where You Lead by Carole King, arr. by Audrey Snyder
Stephanie Johnston, alto
Carry On by Kansas, arr. by Roger Emerson (TTB)
Adam Rettberg, bass
The Very Best of the Beach Boys (Help, Me Rhonda, Fun, Fun, Fun, I Get Around), arr. by Ed Lojeski
INTERMISSION
Somebody to Love by Queen, arr. by Roger Emerson
Hollis Redmon, soprano; Mark McCauley, bass
Mister Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra, arr. by Deke Sharon
Jen Hendricks, alto; Daina Fischer, alto; Mark McCauley, bass; Roger Dore, bass
Summer of '69: Three Days that Rocked the World (Songs of Woodstock Medley), arr. by Roger Emerson
I. The Innovators: Suite: Judy Blue Eyes; Somebody to Love; Spinning Wheel.
II. The Rock & Rollers: My Generation; Bad Moon Rising; Evil Ways; Proud Mary.
III. The Balladiers: Helplessly Hoping; If I Were a Carpenter, Dick Lauterbach, bass; Find the Cost of Freedom.
IV. The Entertainers: Silhouettes; Get a Job, Jeff Gebhart, tenor; At the Hop.
ENCORE: Bohemian Rhapsody arr. by Mark Brymer
Section leaders:
Qiana Licorish, soprano
Daina Fischer, alto
Jim Yarbrough, tenor
Joseph Ryan, bass
Band:
Matt Elgazar, guitar
Devin Foster, bass
Tim Berg, drums
Robert McConnell, piano for dress rehearsal and concerts
Jeremy Zimmer, rehearsal pianist
CONCERT ORDER
If I Fell by the Beatles
After the Gold Rush by Neil Young, arr. by Peter Knight
Amanda Hanson, alto
I'm Still Standing by Elton John, arr. by Pete Schmutte
Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me by Elton John (SSA)
Joanie Rae Wimmer, tenor
Your Song by Elton John, arr. by Mac Huff
Mary Ubatuba, alto
Rocket Man by Elton John, arr. by Chris Lowry
Jim Yarbrough, tenor
You've Got a Friend by Carole King, arr. by Mac Huff
Lucia Sartori, soprano
Where You Lead by Carole King, arr. by Audrey Snyder
Stephanie Johnston, alto
Carry On by Kansas, arr. by Roger Emerson (TTB)
Adam Rettberg, bass
The Very Best of the Beach Boys (Help, Me Rhonda, Fun, Fun, Fun, I Get Around), arr. by Ed Lojeski
INTERMISSION
Somebody to Love by Queen, arr. by Roger Emerson
Hollis Redmon, soprano; Mark McCauley, bass
Mister Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra, arr. by Deke Sharon
Jen Hendricks, alto; Daina Fischer, alto; Mark McCauley, bass; Roger Dore, bass
Summer of '69: Three Days that Rocked the World (Songs of Woodstock Medley), arr. by Roger Emerson
I. The Innovators: Suite: Judy Blue Eyes; Somebody to Love; Spinning Wheel.
II. The Rock & Rollers: My Generation; Bad Moon Rising; Evil Ways; Proud Mary.
III. The Balladiers: Helplessly Hoping; If I Were a Carpenter, Dick Lauterbach, bass; Find the Cost of Freedom.
IV. The Entertainers: Silhouettes; Get a Job, Jeff Gebhart, tenor; At the Hop.
ENCORE: Bohemian Rhapsody arr. by Mark Brymer
Section leaders:
Qiana Licorish, soprano
Daina Fischer, alto
Jim Yarbrough, tenor
Joseph Ryan, bass
Band:
Matt Elgazar, guitar
Devin Foster, bass
Tim Berg, drums
Robert McConnell, piano for dress rehearsal and concerts
Jeremy Zimmer, rehearsal pianist
Grant Us Peace
March 5 & 6, 2022 - Emmanuel Episcopal Church
CONCERT ORDER
The Awakening by Joseph M. Martin
How Can I Keep from Singing Arr. by Leo Nestor
I Dream a World by David Brunner
Ain’t No Grave Can Hold My Body Down Arr. by Paul Caldwell & Sean Ivory
SHORT INTERMISSION
Dona Nobis Pacem by Ralph Vaughan Williams
I. Agnus Dei (Lento)
II. Beat! Beat! Drums (Allegro moderato)
III. Reconciliation (Andantino)
IV. Dirge for Two Veterans (Moderato alla marcia)
V. The Angel of Death (L'istesso tempo)
VI. O Man Greatly Beloved (Andante)
Natalie Clyne, soprano soloist and section leader
Aaron Wardell, baritone soloist and section leader
Daina Fischer, alto section leader
Madison Bolt, tenor section leader
Constance Volk, flute
Laura Perkett, oboe & English horn
Parker Nelson, horn
Jonathan Dozois, horn
Sarah Carrillo, trumpet
Simon Gomez, timpani
Mark Linley, percussion
LeAnne Bennion, harp
Emelinda Escobar, violin
Caroline Rothstein, violin
Oana Tatu, viola
Timothy Archbold, cello
Andrew French, bass
Jeremy Zimmer, organ & piano, rehearsal pianist
CONCERT ORDER
The Awakening by Joseph M. Martin
How Can I Keep from Singing Arr. by Leo Nestor
I Dream a World by David Brunner
Ain’t No Grave Can Hold My Body Down Arr. by Paul Caldwell & Sean Ivory
SHORT INTERMISSION
Dona Nobis Pacem by Ralph Vaughan Williams
I. Agnus Dei (Lento)
II. Beat! Beat! Drums (Allegro moderato)
III. Reconciliation (Andantino)
IV. Dirge for Two Veterans (Moderato alla marcia)
V. The Angel of Death (L'istesso tempo)
VI. O Man Greatly Beloved (Andante)
Natalie Clyne, soprano soloist and section leader
Aaron Wardell, baritone soloist and section leader
Daina Fischer, alto section leader
Madison Bolt, tenor section leader
Constance Volk, flute
Laura Perkett, oboe & English horn
Parker Nelson, horn
Jonathan Dozois, horn
Sarah Carrillo, trumpet
Simon Gomez, timpani
Mark Linley, percussion
LeAnne Bennion, harp
Emelinda Escobar, violin
Caroline Rothstein, violin
Oana Tatu, viola
Timothy Archbold, cello
Andrew French, bass
Jeremy Zimmer, organ & piano, rehearsal pianist
Joy! Joy! Joy!
December 4 & 5, 2021 - Emmanuel Episcopal Church
CONCERT ORDER
Bring a Torch, Jeannette Isabella Arr. by Howard Helvey
Ecce Novum by Ola Gjello
Sweet Little Jesus Boy Arr. by Ken Berg
Soloists: Rebecca Prescott, soprano; Aaron Wardell, bass
O Holy Night Arr. by Brian Luckner
Personent Hodie Arr. by John Rutter
There Is No Rose by René Clausen
Paula Kosower, cello
Ringeltänze (Christmas Carol Dances) ~ movements 2-6 ~ by Libby Larsen
2. O Hark the Bell's Glad Song
3. Beautiful Star
Soloists: Rebecca Prescott, soprano; Corinne Wallace-Crane, alto;
Madison Bolt, tenor; Aaron Wardell, bass
4. Le Petit Nouveau Né
5. At Christmas Be Merry
6. The Shepherds All Are Waking
INTERMISSION
Carol Medley by James Winfield (Sing along)
Includes:
O Come, O Come Emmanuel
O Little Town
Angels We Have Heard on High
Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
What Child Is This?
Away in a Manger (2 settings)
Silent Night
O Come All Ye Faithful
Deep Peace by Bill Douglas
Christmas Medley Arr. by Barlow Bradford
Includes three carols:
In Dulci Jubilo
Joseph Dearest, Joseph Mine
Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
ENCORE:
A Merry Christmas (We Wish You a Merry Christmas) Arr. by Arthur Warrell
Jim Molina, piano & organ, rehearsal pianist
Victor Moreno, piano & synthesizer
Paula Kosower, cello
The four soloists listed above were also the section leaders
Back to top
CONCERT ORDER
Bring a Torch, Jeannette Isabella Arr. by Howard Helvey
Ecce Novum by Ola Gjello
Sweet Little Jesus Boy Arr. by Ken Berg
Soloists: Rebecca Prescott, soprano; Aaron Wardell, bass
O Holy Night Arr. by Brian Luckner
Personent Hodie Arr. by John Rutter
There Is No Rose by René Clausen
Paula Kosower, cello
Ringeltänze (Christmas Carol Dances) ~ movements 2-6 ~ by Libby Larsen
2. O Hark the Bell's Glad Song
3. Beautiful Star
Soloists: Rebecca Prescott, soprano; Corinne Wallace-Crane, alto;
Madison Bolt, tenor; Aaron Wardell, bass
4. Le Petit Nouveau Né
5. At Christmas Be Merry
6. The Shepherds All Are Waking
INTERMISSION
Carol Medley by James Winfield (Sing along)
Includes:
O Come, O Come Emmanuel
O Little Town
Angels We Have Heard on High
Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
What Child Is This?
Away in a Manger (2 settings)
Silent Night
O Come All Ye Faithful
Deep Peace by Bill Douglas
Christmas Medley Arr. by Barlow Bradford
Includes three carols:
In Dulci Jubilo
Joseph Dearest, Joseph Mine
Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
ENCORE:
A Merry Christmas (We Wish You a Merry Christmas) Arr. by Arthur Warrell
Jim Molina, piano & organ, rehearsal pianist
Victor Moreno, piano & synthesizer
Paula Kosower, cello
The four soloists listed above were also the section leaders
Back to top
Grant Us Peace
A Mini Tower Virtual Classical Concer
June 13, 2021 - YouTube premiere, click here to watch
How Lovely are the Messengers - Mendelssohn
Agnus Dei/Lacrimosa - Albinoni/Giazotto, arr. by Godon, Balmer, & Mather
Ain't No Grave Can Hold My Body Down - Paul Caldwell & Sean Ivory
Lindsey Adamson, ASL Interpreter
ENCORE: Deep Peace - Bill Douglas
Patrick Godon, piano & organ
Erica Carpenedo, violin
How Lovely are the Messengers - Mendelssohn
Agnus Dei/Lacrimosa - Albinoni/Giazotto, arr. by Godon, Balmer, & Mather
Ain't No Grave Can Hold My Body Down - Paul Caldwell & Sean Ivory
Lindsey Adamson, ASL Interpreter
ENCORE: Deep Peace - Bill Douglas
Patrick Godon, piano & organ
Erica Carpenedo, violin
The Tower Chorale Rocks
A Mini Tower Virtual Pops Concert
April 11, 2021 - YouTube premiere, click here to watch
I'm Still Standing by Elton John, arr. by Pete Schmutte
You've Got a Friend by Carole King, arr. by Mac Huff
Lucia Sartori, soprano
Mister Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra, arr. by Deke Sharon
Jen Hendricks, alto 1; Daina Fischer, alto 2; Mark McCauley, tenor
ENCORE: Bohemian Rhapsody arr. by Mark Brymer
Band: Patrick Godon, piano; Chris Siebold, guitar; Matt Ulery, bass; Tim Berg, drums
I'm Still Standing by Elton John, arr. by Pete Schmutte
You've Got a Friend by Carole King, arr. by Mac Huff
Lucia Sartori, soprano
Mister Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra, arr. by Deke Sharon
Jen Hendricks, alto 1; Daina Fischer, alto 2; Mark McCauley, tenor
ENCORE: Bohemian Rhapsody arr. by Mark Brymer
Band: Patrick Godon, piano; Chris Siebold, guitar; Matt Ulery, bass; Tim Berg, drums
A Tower Chorale Virtual Christmas
December 6, 2020 - YouTube premiere, click here to watch
Bring a Torch, Jeannette Isabella Arr. by Howard Helvey
O Holy Night Arr. by Brian Luckner
Angels We Have Heard on High Arr. by Matthew Culloton
Still, Still, Still Arr. by Barlow Bradford
Hope for Resolution Arr. by Paul Caldwell & Sean Ivory
with the St. Gregory's Choir from the Church of the Holy Spirit, Lake Forest and
Sally Stephenson, violin
ENCORE: A Merry Christmas (We Wish You a Merry Christmas) Arr. by Arthur Warrell
Patrick Godon, piano & organ
Back to top
Bring a Torch, Jeannette Isabella Arr. by Howard Helvey
O Holy Night Arr. by Brian Luckner
Angels We Have Heard on High Arr. by Matthew Culloton
Still, Still, Still Arr. by Barlow Bradford
Hope for Resolution Arr. by Paul Caldwell & Sean Ivory
with the St. Gregory's Choir from the Church of the Holy Spirit, Lake Forest and
Sally Stephenson, violin
ENCORE: A Merry Christmas (We Wish You a Merry Christmas) Arr. by Arthur Warrell
Patrick Godon, piano & organ
Back to top
Day and Night: Rutter, Copland & more
February 29 & March 1, 2020 - First United Methodist Church of La Grange
The Last Words of David by Randall Thompson
Morning Song of Praise, Op. 71, No. 7 by Max Bruch
The Little Horses by Aaron Copland
The Dodger by Copland
Michael Hawes, baritone soloist
Ching-A-Ring-Chaw by Copland, arr. by Irving Fine
Sure on this Shining Night by Morten Lauridsen
Night, Sleep, Death, and the Stars by Daniel Gawthrop
INTERMISSION
Mass of the Children by John Rutter
Chamber Orchestra version
with Anastasia Cameron Balmer, soprano
Michael Hawes, baritone
Pro Musica Youth Chorus, Bill Chin, Artistic Director; Karen Wilberg, Associate Conductor
International Chamber Artists:
Jeremy Zimmer, piano and organ
Yukie Ota, flute
Ashley Ertz, oboe
Teresa Reilly, clarinet
Tsz-Ho Liu, bassoon
Kelly Langenberg, horn
David Chapman-Orr, bass
Mia Venezia, harp
Dan Benson, timpani
David Eisenriech, percussion
The Last Words of David by Randall Thompson
Morning Song of Praise, Op. 71, No. 7 by Max Bruch
The Little Horses by Aaron Copland
The Dodger by Copland
Michael Hawes, baritone soloist
Ching-A-Ring-Chaw by Copland, arr. by Irving Fine
Sure on this Shining Night by Morten Lauridsen
Night, Sleep, Death, and the Stars by Daniel Gawthrop
INTERMISSION
Mass of the Children by John Rutter
Chamber Orchestra version
with Anastasia Cameron Balmer, soprano
Michael Hawes, baritone
Pro Musica Youth Chorus, Bill Chin, Artistic Director; Karen Wilberg, Associate Conductor
International Chamber Artists:
Jeremy Zimmer, piano and organ
Yukie Ota, flute
Ashley Ertz, oboe
Teresa Reilly, clarinet
Tsz-Ho Liu, bassoon
Kelly Langenberg, horn
David Chapman-Orr, bass
Mia Venezia, harp
Dan Benson, timpani
David Eisenriech, percussion
Dusk 'til Dawn
November 9 & 10, 2019 - First Presbyterian Church of La Grange
CONCERT ORDER
Bright Morning Stars arr. by Shawn Kirchner
Jon Hinton, baritone
Ballade to the Moon by Daniel Elder
Lullaby by Daniel Elder
When the Saints Go Marching In arr. by John Rutter
Jennifer Woodrum, clarinet
SHORT INTERMISSION
Calling all Dawns by Christopher Tin
1. Baba Yetu (Our Father - Swahili)
Tenor (measures 7-10, letter B-C, E-F, H-I) - Jerry Spiering
Alto (measures 2-4, 18, 66, and last 2 of movement 12.) - Kati Lechner
2. Mado Kara Mieru (Through The Window I See - Japanese)
Young girl (letter A-B, and L to the end) - Olivia Tobolski
Soprano (letter C-D, F-G) - Peggy McCaffray
Alto (letter E-F) - Kati Lechner
3. Dao Zai Fan Ye (The Path is in Returning - Mandarin)
Soprano & Alto (letter C to E) - Beth Hallworth & Jen Hendricks
4. Se É Pra Vir Que Venha (Whatever Comes, Let it Come - Portuguese)
Alto (letter A-B) - Jen Hendricks
5. Rassemblons-Nous (Let Us Together - French)
Tenor (p. 24, letter C-E) - Joseph O'Shea
6. Lux Aeterna (Eternal Light - Latin)
Soprano - Melissa Raub
7. Caoineadh (To Cry - Irish)
Alto (letter A-B) - Kati Lechner
8. Hymn Do Trójcy Świetęj (Hymn to the Holy Trinity - Polish)
Soprano (letter A-I) - Megan Learned
9. Hayom Kadosh (Today is Sacred - Hebrew)
Soprano - Beth Hallworth
10. Hamsáfár (Journey Together - Farsi)
Soprano - Beth Hallworth
11. Sukla-Krsne (Light and Darkness - Sanskrit)
Baritone (letter A-B, E-F) - Joanie Rae Wimmer
12. Kia Hora Te Marino (May Peace Be Widespread - Maori)
Baritone (m. 23-33) - Jim Kline
2 "Maori" soloists (m. 23-34, 43-51) - Craig Fisher & Mark McCauley
Alto (last 2 measures) - Kati Lechner
ENCORE: 1. Baba Yetu (Our Father - Swahili)
International Chamber Artists Chamber Orchestra:
Elizabeth Choi, violin concertmaster
Yuriy Geyer, violin
Oana Tatu, viola
Melissa Bach, cello
David Chapman-Orr, bass
Yukie Ota, flute
Alex Liedtke, oboe
Jennifer Woodrum, clarinet
Keri Godon, horn
Kelly Langenberg, horn
Chelsea French, trombone
Benjamin Zisook, bass trombone
Mia Venezia, harp
Jason Yoder, timpani
Kevin Kosnik, percussion
David Eisenreich, percussion
Mark Linley, percussion
Back to top
CONCERT ORDER
Bright Morning Stars arr. by Shawn Kirchner
Jon Hinton, baritone
Ballade to the Moon by Daniel Elder
Lullaby by Daniel Elder
When the Saints Go Marching In arr. by John Rutter
Jennifer Woodrum, clarinet
SHORT INTERMISSION
Calling all Dawns by Christopher Tin
1. Baba Yetu (Our Father - Swahili)
Tenor (measures 7-10, letter B-C, E-F, H-I) - Jerry Spiering
Alto (measures 2-4, 18, 66, and last 2 of movement 12.) - Kati Lechner
2. Mado Kara Mieru (Through The Window I See - Japanese)
Young girl (letter A-B, and L to the end) - Olivia Tobolski
Soprano (letter C-D, F-G) - Peggy McCaffray
Alto (letter E-F) - Kati Lechner
3. Dao Zai Fan Ye (The Path is in Returning - Mandarin)
Soprano & Alto (letter C to E) - Beth Hallworth & Jen Hendricks
4. Se É Pra Vir Que Venha (Whatever Comes, Let it Come - Portuguese)
Alto (letter A-B) - Jen Hendricks
5. Rassemblons-Nous (Let Us Together - French)
Tenor (p. 24, letter C-E) - Joseph O'Shea
6. Lux Aeterna (Eternal Light - Latin)
Soprano - Melissa Raub
7. Caoineadh (To Cry - Irish)
Alto (letter A-B) - Kati Lechner
8. Hymn Do Trójcy Świetęj (Hymn to the Holy Trinity - Polish)
Soprano (letter A-I) - Megan Learned
9. Hayom Kadosh (Today is Sacred - Hebrew)
Soprano - Beth Hallworth
10. Hamsáfár (Journey Together - Farsi)
Soprano - Beth Hallworth
11. Sukla-Krsne (Light and Darkness - Sanskrit)
Baritone (letter A-B, E-F) - Joanie Rae Wimmer
12. Kia Hora Te Marino (May Peace Be Widespread - Maori)
Baritone (m. 23-33) - Jim Kline
2 "Maori" soloists (m. 23-34, 43-51) - Craig Fisher & Mark McCauley
Alto (last 2 measures) - Kati Lechner
ENCORE: 1. Baba Yetu (Our Father - Swahili)
International Chamber Artists Chamber Orchestra:
Elizabeth Choi, violin concertmaster
Yuriy Geyer, violin
Oana Tatu, viola
Melissa Bach, cello
David Chapman-Orr, bass
Yukie Ota, flute
Alex Liedtke, oboe
Jennifer Woodrum, clarinet
Keri Godon, horn
Kelly Langenberg, horn
Chelsea French, trombone
Benjamin Zisook, bass trombone
Mia Venezia, harp
Jason Yoder, timpani
Kevin Kosnik, percussion
David Eisenreich, percussion
Mark Linley, percussion
Back to top
Anything Goes: Broadway & Irving Berlin
May 18 & 19, 2019 - Nazareth Academy
CONCERT ORDER
Lullaby of Broadway by Harry Warren, arr. by Jay Althouse
Jim Hutchinson, tenor
Anything Goes by Cole Porter, arr. by Philip Kern
Send in the Clowns by Stephen Sondheim, arr. by Darmon Meader
Comedy Tonight by Stephen Sondheim, arr. by Greg Gilpin
On My Own by Claude Michel Schönberg, arr. by Ed Lojeski
Elizabeth King, soprano
The Wells Fargo Wagon by Meredith Willson, arr. by Roger Emerson
Once Upon a Dream by Frank Wilhorn, arr. by John Leavitt
Nancy Krames, alto
The Lion King (medley) by Elton John, arr. by Mark Brymer
Opening Solo: Amy Rettberg; Solo 1: Jen Henricks, alto; Solo 2: Michelle Chick, soprano
INTERMISSION
There Is Nothin' Like a Dame by Rodgers & Hammerstein, arr. by William Stickles (TTBB)
John Myhre, tenor
Day By Day by Stephen Schwartz, arr. by Lou Hayward (SSAA)
Irving Berlin: A Century of Song arr. by Mac Huff
Full Song List:
· THERE'S NO BUSINESS LIKE SHOW BUSINESS
· SHAKING THE BLUES AWAY - Solo 1: Taryn MacLean, alto; Solo 2: Karen Baer, soprano
· PLAY A SIMPLE MELODY
· ALEXANDER'S RAGTIME BAND
· BLUE SKIES - Megan Learned, soprano
· CHEEK TO CHEEK - Peggy McCaffray, soprano; Joanie Wimmer, tenor
· ANYTHING YOU CAN DO
· THIS IS THE ARMY, MR. JONES
· WHAT'LL I DO? - Mim Farley, soprano
· WHITE CHRISTMAS - Jean Harrison, soprano
· EASTER PARADE (Easter Parade) - John Cooperrider, tenor
· A PRETTY GIRL IS LIKE A MELODY
· DOIN' WHAT COMES NATUR'LLY (Annie Get Your Gun) - Andrea Moen, Solos 1 & 3; Kathy Daley, Solo 2; Karen Bear, Solo 4; Peggy McCaffray, Solo 5; Beth Bassler, Solo 6.
· HEAT WAVE
· PUTTIN' ON THE RITZ
· STEPPIN' OUT WITH MY BABY
· GIVE ME YOUR TIRED, YOUR POOR
· GOD BLESS AMERICA (SING ALONG)
ENCORE: Give My Regards to Broadway by George M. Cohan, arr. by Carl Strommen
Band: Matt Gold, guitar; Emma Adomeit, bass; Nate Friedman, drums
CONCERT ORDER
Lullaby of Broadway by Harry Warren, arr. by Jay Althouse
Jim Hutchinson, tenor
Anything Goes by Cole Porter, arr. by Philip Kern
Send in the Clowns by Stephen Sondheim, arr. by Darmon Meader
Comedy Tonight by Stephen Sondheim, arr. by Greg Gilpin
On My Own by Claude Michel Schönberg, arr. by Ed Lojeski
Elizabeth King, soprano
The Wells Fargo Wagon by Meredith Willson, arr. by Roger Emerson
Once Upon a Dream by Frank Wilhorn, arr. by John Leavitt
Nancy Krames, alto
The Lion King (medley) by Elton John, arr. by Mark Brymer
Opening Solo: Amy Rettberg; Solo 1: Jen Henricks, alto; Solo 2: Michelle Chick, soprano
INTERMISSION
There Is Nothin' Like a Dame by Rodgers & Hammerstein, arr. by William Stickles (TTBB)
John Myhre, tenor
Day By Day by Stephen Schwartz, arr. by Lou Hayward (SSAA)
Irving Berlin: A Century of Song arr. by Mac Huff
Full Song List:
· THERE'S NO BUSINESS LIKE SHOW BUSINESS
· SHAKING THE BLUES AWAY - Solo 1: Taryn MacLean, alto; Solo 2: Karen Baer, soprano
· PLAY A SIMPLE MELODY
· ALEXANDER'S RAGTIME BAND
· BLUE SKIES - Megan Learned, soprano
· CHEEK TO CHEEK - Peggy McCaffray, soprano; Joanie Wimmer, tenor
· ANYTHING YOU CAN DO
· THIS IS THE ARMY, MR. JONES
· WHAT'LL I DO? - Mim Farley, soprano
· WHITE CHRISTMAS - Jean Harrison, soprano
· EASTER PARADE (Easter Parade) - John Cooperrider, tenor
· A PRETTY GIRL IS LIKE A MELODY
· DOIN' WHAT COMES NATUR'LLY (Annie Get Your Gun) - Andrea Moen, Solos 1 & 3; Kathy Daley, Solo 2; Karen Bear, Solo 4; Peggy McCaffray, Solo 5; Beth Bassler, Solo 6.
· HEAT WAVE
· PUTTIN' ON THE RITZ
· STEPPIN' OUT WITH MY BABY
· GIVE ME YOUR TIRED, YOUR POOR
· GOD BLESS AMERICA (SING ALONG)
ENCORE: Give My Regards to Broadway by George M. Cohan, arr. by Carl Strommen
Band: Matt Gold, guitar; Emma Adomeit, bass; Nate Friedman, drums
Dvořák & Pärt Masterpieces
March 2 & 3, 2019 - Emmanuel Episcopal Church
Salve Regina by Arvo Pärt (choir and organ)
INTERMISSION
Mass in D Major, Op. 86 by Antonín Dvořák (choir and organ)
with Erin Nafziger, soprano
Daina Fischer, mezzo
Kevin St. John, tenor
Aaron Wardell, bass
Salve Regina by Arvo Pärt (choir and organ)
INTERMISSION
Mass in D Major, Op. 86 by Antonín Dvořák (choir and organ)
with Erin Nafziger, soprano
Daina Fischer, mezzo
Kevin St. John, tenor
Aaron Wardell, bass
Gloria
December 1 & 2, 2018 - Western Springs Christian Reformed Church
CONCERT ORDER
Gloria, RV 589 by Antonio Vivaldi
Soloists: Erin Cleary, soprano; Lilibeth MacLean, soprano; Mim Farley, soprano; Kati Lechner, alto; Mary Ubatuba, alto
INTERMISSION
O Come, All Ye Faithful arr. by Dan Forrest
Ding! Dong! Merrily on High arr. by Howard Helvey
The Snow by Edward Elgar
Gesu Bambino by Pietro Yon, arr. by Alan Hommerding
Sleep, Holy Child by James Ludwig
Fum, Fum, Fum arr. by Mack Wilberg
Away in a Manger arr. by Mack Wilberg
This Christmastide (Jesse's Carol) by Donald Fraser
ENCORE:
Festival Gloria by Craig Courtney
Mariana Gariazzo, flute
Paul Lowry, trumpet
Blagomira Lipari, violin
John Eckhardt, violin
Jay Pike, viola
Kyra Saltman, cello
Jessica Koch, piano
CONCERT ORDER
Gloria, RV 589 by Antonio Vivaldi
Soloists: Erin Cleary, soprano; Lilibeth MacLean, soprano; Mim Farley, soprano; Kati Lechner, alto; Mary Ubatuba, alto
INTERMISSION
O Come, All Ye Faithful arr. by Dan Forrest
Ding! Dong! Merrily on High arr. by Howard Helvey
The Snow by Edward Elgar
Gesu Bambino by Pietro Yon, arr. by Alan Hommerding
Sleep, Holy Child by James Ludwig
Fum, Fum, Fum arr. by Mack Wilberg
Away in a Manger arr. by Mack Wilberg
This Christmastide (Jesse's Carol) by Donald Fraser
ENCORE:
Festival Gloria by Craig Courtney
Mariana Gariazzo, flute
Paul Lowry, trumpet
Blagomira Lipari, violin
John Eckhardt, violin
Jay Pike, viola
Kyra Saltman, cello
Jessica Koch, piano
A Splash of Music: from Bernstein to Billy Joel
May 19 & 20, 2018 - Nazareth Academy
CONCERT ORDER
Make Our Garden Grow by Leonard Bernstein
The Lobster Quadrille by Irving Fine
The Boatmen's Dance Arr. by Aaron Copland and Irving Fine
Jerry Spiering, tenor
Long Time Ago by Aaron Copland and Irving Fine
Deep River by Alice Parker/Robert Shaw
Beverly Stewart-Anderson, soprano
Stand Still Jordan solo sung by guest soloist Beverly Stewart-Anderson
Wade in the Water by Moses Hogan
Beverly Stewart-Anderson, soprano
INTERMISSION
Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In by Fifth Dimension, Music by Galt MacDermot
Peggy McCaffray, soprano
Song of the Sea by Bruno Coulais and Kila, arr. by Patrick Godon
Singin' in the Rain arr. by Mac Huff
Lullaby by Billy Joel
River of Dreams by Billy Joel
Melissa Raub, soprano & Peter Buscemi, tenor
Till There Was You arr. by Kirby Shaw
Disney Dazzle! arr. by Mac Huff
Includes: Be Our Guest, Belle, Arabian Nights, Kiss the Girl, Part of Your World, A Whole New World, Beauty and the Beast, Fathoms Below, Under the Sea, and Friend Like Me.
Soloists: Dan Creed, Lindsey Brandt, Jen Henricks, Ralph & Cathy Adamson
ENCORE: Africa by Toto's David Paich and Jeff Porcaro, arr. by Roger Emerson
Soloists: Jerry Spiering, John Rosenberg, Erin Cleary
Band: Jeff Swanson, guitar; Michael Harmon, bass; Nate Friedman, drums
CONCERT ORDER
Make Our Garden Grow by Leonard Bernstein
The Lobster Quadrille by Irving Fine
The Boatmen's Dance Arr. by Aaron Copland and Irving Fine
Jerry Spiering, tenor
Long Time Ago by Aaron Copland and Irving Fine
Deep River by Alice Parker/Robert Shaw
Beverly Stewart-Anderson, soprano
Stand Still Jordan solo sung by guest soloist Beverly Stewart-Anderson
Wade in the Water by Moses Hogan
Beverly Stewart-Anderson, soprano
INTERMISSION
Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In by Fifth Dimension, Music by Galt MacDermot
Peggy McCaffray, soprano
Song of the Sea by Bruno Coulais and Kila, arr. by Patrick Godon
Singin' in the Rain arr. by Mac Huff
Lullaby by Billy Joel
River of Dreams by Billy Joel
Melissa Raub, soprano & Peter Buscemi, tenor
Till There Was You arr. by Kirby Shaw
Disney Dazzle! arr. by Mac Huff
Includes: Be Our Guest, Belle, Arabian Nights, Kiss the Girl, Part of Your World, A Whole New World, Beauty and the Beast, Fathoms Below, Under the Sea, and Friend Like Me.
Soloists: Dan Creed, Lindsey Brandt, Jen Henricks, Ralph & Cathy Adamson
ENCORE: Africa by Toto's David Paich and Jeff Porcaro, arr. by Roger Emerson
Soloists: Jerry Spiering, John Rosenberg, Erin Cleary
Band: Jeff Swanson, guitar; Michael Harmon, bass; Nate Friedman, drums
Carmina Burana
March 3, 2018 - Emmanuel Episcopal Church
March 4, 2018 - Concordia University Chapel of Our Lord
April 23, 2018 - Orchestra Hall with the Symphony of Oak Park River Forest
Also on the program, Beethoven's Choral Fantasy, with Patrick Godon as piano soloist
by Carl Orff
Version for soprano, tenor, baritone soloists, choir, children's choir, 2 pianos, and percussion
with Jessica Coe, soprano
Patrick Muehleise, tenor
Daniel Eifert, bass
Pro Musica Youth Chorus, Bill Chin, Artistic Director; Karen Wilberg, Associate Conductor
March 4, 2018 - Concordia University Chapel of Our Lord
April 23, 2018 - Orchestra Hall with the Symphony of Oak Park River Forest
Also on the program, Beethoven's Choral Fantasy, with Patrick Godon as piano soloist
by Carl Orff
Version for soprano, tenor, baritone soloists, choir, children's choir, 2 pianos, and percussion
with Jessica Coe, soprano
Patrick Muehleise, tenor
Daniel Eifert, bass
Pro Musica Youth Chorus, Bill Chin, Artistic Director; Karen Wilberg, Associate Conductor
- Fortuna Imperatrix Mundi (Fortune, Empress of the World)
- I. Primo vere (In Springtime)
- Uf dem anger (On the Lawn)
- II. In Taberna (In the Tavern)
- III. Cour d'amours (The Court of Love)
- Blanziflor et Helena (Blanziflor and Helena)
- 24. Ave formosissima
- Fortuna Imperatrix Mundi (Fortune, Empress of the World)
- 25. O Fortuna (Fortune, Empress of the World)
On With the Snow
December 2 & 3, 2017 - Western Springs Christian Reformed Church
CONCERT ORDER
Magnificat by John Rutter
Soloists: Erin Cleary & Melissa Raub
INTERMISSION
Glouchestershire Wassail by Paul French
I Saw Three Ships arr. by Rory Cooney
Carol Medley arr. by James Winfield (Sing along)
The Christmas Waltz arr. by Steve Zegree
I'll Be Home for Christmas arr. by Paul Langford
Let it Snow! (from Glee!) arr. by Mark Brymer
Yukie Ota, flute
Sarah Carrillo, trumpet
Christian Anderson, trumpet
Keri Godon, horn
Ian Fitzwater, trombone
Simon Gomez, timpani
Kevin Kosnik, percussion
Jessica Koch, piano
Guest choir: Lyons Township High School Sophomore Madrigals (Saturday only)
CONCERT ORDER
Magnificat by John Rutter
Soloists: Erin Cleary & Melissa Raub
INTERMISSION
Glouchestershire Wassail by Paul French
I Saw Three Ships arr. by Rory Cooney
Carol Medley arr. by James Winfield (Sing along)
The Christmas Waltz arr. by Steve Zegree
I'll Be Home for Christmas arr. by Paul Langford
Let it Snow! (from Glee!) arr. by Mark Brymer
Yukie Ota, flute
Sarah Carrillo, trumpet
Christian Anderson, trumpet
Keri Godon, horn
Ian Fitzwater, trombone
Simon Gomez, timpani
Kevin Kosnik, percussion
Jessica Koch, piano
Guest choir: Lyons Township High School Sophomore Madrigals (Saturday only)
Dream a Little Dream
May 19 & 21, 2017 - Nazareth Academy
CONCERT ORDER
Beautiful Dreamer by Stephen Foster/arr. by Michael Teolis
Dream a Little Dream of Me by Fabian Andre and Wilbur Schwandt/arr. by Jay Althouse
Mister Sandman by Pat Ballard/arr. by Ed Lojeski
At Last by Harry Warren/arr. by Jay Althouse
I Got Rhythm by George and Ira Gershwin/arr. by Mark Hayes
Yesterday Once More by John Bettis and Richard Carpenter/arr. by Ed Lojeski
Lilibeth MacLean, soloist
From a Distance by Julie Gold/arr. by Ed Lojeski
Kati Lechner, soloist
O Brother, Where Art Thou? Medley arr. by Mac Huff
Includes: I'll Fly Away, Keep on the Sunny Side, Down to the River to Pray,
I Am a Man of Constant Sorrow, and In the Highways
Elizabeth Bassler, Mary Ubatuba, Lindsey Brandt, James Downey, John Rosenberg, Paul Greene,
soloists; Mark Miner, banjo
INTERMISSION
Over the Rainbow from The Wizard of Oz by Harold Arlen/arr. by Greg Gilpin (p. 34 to the end)
I Dreamed a Dream from Les Misérables by Claude-Michel Schönberg/arr. by Ed Lojeski (p. 8 bottom-14 top)
Melissa Raub, soloist
The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber/Medley arr. by Ed Lojeski
Includes: The Phantom of the Opera, Think of Me, Angel of Music, All I Ask of You,
Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again, The Point of No Return
Moon River by Henry Mancini/arr. by Ed Lojeski
Sit Down You're Rockin' the Boat from Guys and Dolls, by Frank Loesser/arr. by Mac Huff (p. 37 to the end)
Bruce MacLean, Marv Taylor, soloists
The Impossible Dream arr. by Mark Hayes
ENCORE: You'll Never Walk Alone with Climb Ev'ry Mountain by Richard Rodgers/arr. by Mark Hayes
Band: Sam Hasting, guitar; Michael Harmon, bass; Nate Friedman, drums
CONCERT ORDER
Beautiful Dreamer by Stephen Foster/arr. by Michael Teolis
Dream a Little Dream of Me by Fabian Andre and Wilbur Schwandt/arr. by Jay Althouse
Mister Sandman by Pat Ballard/arr. by Ed Lojeski
At Last by Harry Warren/arr. by Jay Althouse
I Got Rhythm by George and Ira Gershwin/arr. by Mark Hayes
Yesterday Once More by John Bettis and Richard Carpenter/arr. by Ed Lojeski
Lilibeth MacLean, soloist
From a Distance by Julie Gold/arr. by Ed Lojeski
Kati Lechner, soloist
O Brother, Where Art Thou? Medley arr. by Mac Huff
Includes: I'll Fly Away, Keep on the Sunny Side, Down to the River to Pray,
I Am a Man of Constant Sorrow, and In the Highways
Elizabeth Bassler, Mary Ubatuba, Lindsey Brandt, James Downey, John Rosenberg, Paul Greene,
soloists; Mark Miner, banjo
INTERMISSION
Over the Rainbow from The Wizard of Oz by Harold Arlen/arr. by Greg Gilpin (p. 34 to the end)
I Dreamed a Dream from Les Misérables by Claude-Michel Schönberg/arr. by Ed Lojeski (p. 8 bottom-14 top)
Melissa Raub, soloist
The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber/Medley arr. by Ed Lojeski
Includes: The Phantom of the Opera, Think of Me, Angel of Music, All I Ask of You,
Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again, The Point of No Return
Moon River by Henry Mancini/arr. by Ed Lojeski
Sit Down You're Rockin' the Boat from Guys and Dolls, by Frank Loesser/arr. by Mac Huff (p. 37 to the end)
Bruce MacLean, Marv Taylor, soloists
The Impossible Dream arr. by Mark Hayes
ENCORE: You'll Never Walk Alone with Climb Ev'ry Mountain by Richard Rodgers/arr. by Mark Hayes
Band: Sam Hasting, guitar; Michael Harmon, bass; Nate Friedman, drums
Annelies: The Voice of Anne Frank
March 5, 2017 - Western Springs Christian Reformed Church
March 12, 2017 - Concordia University
Annelies by James Whitbourn
Chamber version
1. Introit - Prelude
2. The capture foretold
3. The plan to go into hiding
4. The last night at home and arrival at the annexe
5. Life in hiding
6. Courage
7. Fear of capture and the second break-in
8. Kyrie – Sinfonia
9. The dream
10. Devastation of the outside world
11. Passing of time
12. The hope of liberation and a spring awakening
13. The capture and the concentration camp
14. Anne's meditation
Jessica Coe, soprano
Barbara Drapcho, clarinet
Caroline Slack, violin
Jocelyn Butler, cello
Dennis Zimmer, piano
March 12, 2017 - Concordia University
Annelies by James Whitbourn
Chamber version
1. Introit - Prelude
2. The capture foretold
3. The plan to go into hiding
4. The last night at home and arrival at the annexe
5. Life in hiding
6. Courage
7. Fear of capture and the second break-in
8. Kyrie – Sinfonia
9. The dream
10. Devastation of the outside world
11. Passing of time
12. The hope of liberation and a spring awakening
13. The capture and the concentration camp
14. Anne's meditation
Jessica Coe, soprano
Barbara Drapcho, clarinet
Caroline Slack, violin
Jocelyn Butler, cello
Dennis Zimmer, piano
Dreaming of Christmas
December 2, 3, & 4, 2016 - Emmanuel Episcopal Church
Ding Dong Merrily arr. by Barlow Bradford
Dirait-On (V. from Les Chansons des Roses) by Morten Lauridsen
Tomorrow Shall be my Dancing Day by John Gardner
O Holy Night arr. by Brian Luckner
Three French Carols arr. by Russell Schulz-Widmar
Includes: Three Great Kings, What Is This Lovely Fragrance?, and Carol of the Birds
Mary Ubatuba, Erin Cleary, and Lillibeth MacLean, soloists
I Ponder by Craig Courtney
Justyn Jost, conductor
Still, Still, Still arr. by Barlow Bradford
INTERMISSION
Christmas Wonderland arr. by Teena Chinn
Includes: Christmas Time Is Here, Winter Wonderland, A Song for Christmas, and Sleigh Ride
White Christmas arr. by Kirby Shaw
Up on the Housetop arr. by Kirby Shaw
Grown Up Christmas List arr. by Greg Gilpin
Elizabeth King, soloist
It’s the Holiday Season arr. by Jill Gallina
Christmas Flourish arr. by Randol Alan Bass
Includes: Shiloh (William Billings), Joy to the World, Silent Night (German/English), Angels We Have Heard on High
Soloists: Lauren Reynolds, soprano, and Janet Mensen Reynolds, mezzo-soprano
Brass: Jordan Olive & Wes Skidgel, trumpets; Jena Gardner, horn; Lucas Steidinger, trombone; Matthew Gaunt, tuba
Percussion: Josh Hooten
Ding Dong Merrily arr. by Barlow Bradford
Dirait-On (V. from Les Chansons des Roses) by Morten Lauridsen
Tomorrow Shall be my Dancing Day by John Gardner
O Holy Night arr. by Brian Luckner
Three French Carols arr. by Russell Schulz-Widmar
Includes: Three Great Kings, What Is This Lovely Fragrance?, and Carol of the Birds
Mary Ubatuba, Erin Cleary, and Lillibeth MacLean, soloists
I Ponder by Craig Courtney
Justyn Jost, conductor
Still, Still, Still arr. by Barlow Bradford
INTERMISSION
Christmas Wonderland arr. by Teena Chinn
Includes: Christmas Time Is Here, Winter Wonderland, A Song for Christmas, and Sleigh Ride
White Christmas arr. by Kirby Shaw
Up on the Housetop arr. by Kirby Shaw
Grown Up Christmas List arr. by Greg Gilpin
Elizabeth King, soloist
It’s the Holiday Season arr. by Jill Gallina
Christmas Flourish arr. by Randol Alan Bass
Includes: Shiloh (William Billings), Joy to the World, Silent Night (German/English), Angels We Have Heard on High
Soloists: Lauren Reynolds, soprano, and Janet Mensen Reynolds, mezzo-soprano
Brass: Jordan Olive & Wes Skidgel, trumpets; Jena Gardner, horn; Lucas Steidinger, trombone; Matthew Gaunt, tuba
Percussion: Josh Hooten
Isn't It Romantic?
May 20 & 22, 2016 - Nazareth Academy
Isn’t It Romantic? - by Richard Rodgers, Arr. by Steve Zegree (1932)
Peggy McCaffray & Melissa Raub, soprano soloists
Cheek to Cheek - by Irving Berlin, Arr. by Kirby Shaw (1935)
Mary Ubatuba, alto soloist; Marv Taylor, tenor soloist
Stormy Weather - by Harold Arlen, Arr. by Jay Althouse (1933)
Georgia On My Mind - by Hoagy Carmichael, Arr. by Kirby Shaw (1930)(TTBB)
Bruce MacLean, bass soloist; Mark Miner, tenor soloist
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes - by Jerome Kern, Arr. by Ralph Hunter (1933)(SSA)
Silhouettes: A Medley of Jerome Kern Melodies - Arr. and adapted by Clay Warwick & Patrick Godon (SATB)
The Song Is You (1930)
Lovely To Look At (1935)
Why Do I Love You (1927)
The Way You Look Tonight (1936)
INTERMISSION
As Time Goes By - by Herman Hupfeld, Arr. by Russ Robinson (1931)
Lucia Sartori & Beth Strauss, soprano soloists
They Can’t Take That Away From Me - Gershwin, Arr. by Carl Strommen (1936)
Over the Rainbow - by Harold Arlen, Arr. by Russ Robinson (1938)
In the Still of the Night - by Cole Porter, Arr. by William Stickles (1937)
Rebecca Schurwanz, alto soloist
Star Dust - by Hoagy Carmichael, words by Mitchell Parish, Arr. by Ed Lojeski (1927)
Jen Hendricks, alto soloist; John Rosenberg, bass soloist; Marv Taylor, tenor soloist
Moonglow - by Will Hudson, Eddie De Lange, and Irving Mills, Arr. Teena Chinn (1934)
Get Happy: A Choral Montage of Songs from the Thirties - Arr. by Hawley Ades
Including:
Of Thee I Sing - by George & Ira Gershwin (1931)
Night and Day - by Cole Porter (1932)
It’s Only a Paper Moon - by Harold Arlen (1933)
Two Hearts in 3/4 Time - by Robert Stolz (1930)
Dancing in the Dark - by Arthur Schwartz (1931)
Begin the Beguine - by Cole Porter (1935)
Get Happy - by Harold Arlen and Ted Koehler (1929)
ENCORE: It Don’t Mean a Thing if it Ain’t Got that Swing - by Duke Ellington, Arr. by Mac Huff (1931)
Solo Quintet: Erin Cleary, soprano; Andrea Moen & Mary Ubatuba, altos; Mark Miner, tenor; Bruce MacLean, bass
Band: Jeff Swanson, guitar; Michael Harmon, bass; Nate Friedman, drums
Isn’t It Romantic? - by Richard Rodgers, Arr. by Steve Zegree (1932)
Peggy McCaffray & Melissa Raub, soprano soloists
Cheek to Cheek - by Irving Berlin, Arr. by Kirby Shaw (1935)
Mary Ubatuba, alto soloist; Marv Taylor, tenor soloist
Stormy Weather - by Harold Arlen, Arr. by Jay Althouse (1933)
Georgia On My Mind - by Hoagy Carmichael, Arr. by Kirby Shaw (1930)(TTBB)
Bruce MacLean, bass soloist; Mark Miner, tenor soloist
Smoke Gets in Your Eyes - by Jerome Kern, Arr. by Ralph Hunter (1933)(SSA)
Silhouettes: A Medley of Jerome Kern Melodies - Arr. and adapted by Clay Warwick & Patrick Godon (SATB)
The Song Is You (1930)
Lovely To Look At (1935)
Why Do I Love You (1927)
The Way You Look Tonight (1936)
INTERMISSION
As Time Goes By - by Herman Hupfeld, Arr. by Russ Robinson (1931)
Lucia Sartori & Beth Strauss, soprano soloists
They Can’t Take That Away From Me - Gershwin, Arr. by Carl Strommen (1936)
Over the Rainbow - by Harold Arlen, Arr. by Russ Robinson (1938)
In the Still of the Night - by Cole Porter, Arr. by William Stickles (1937)
Rebecca Schurwanz, alto soloist
Star Dust - by Hoagy Carmichael, words by Mitchell Parish, Arr. by Ed Lojeski (1927)
Jen Hendricks, alto soloist; John Rosenberg, bass soloist; Marv Taylor, tenor soloist
Moonglow - by Will Hudson, Eddie De Lange, and Irving Mills, Arr. Teena Chinn (1934)
Get Happy: A Choral Montage of Songs from the Thirties - Arr. by Hawley Ades
Including:
Of Thee I Sing - by George & Ira Gershwin (1931)
Night and Day - by Cole Porter (1932)
It’s Only a Paper Moon - by Harold Arlen (1933)
Two Hearts in 3/4 Time - by Robert Stolz (1930)
Dancing in the Dark - by Arthur Schwartz (1931)
Begin the Beguine - by Cole Porter (1935)
Get Happy - by Harold Arlen and Ted Koehler (1929)
ENCORE: It Don’t Mean a Thing if it Ain’t Got that Swing - by Duke Ellington, Arr. by Mac Huff (1931)
Solo Quintet: Erin Cleary, soprano; Andrea Moen & Mary Ubatuba, altos; Mark Miner, tenor; Bruce MacLean, bass
Band: Jeff Swanson, guitar; Michael Harmon, bass; Nate Friedman, drums
Mendelssohn's St. Paul
March 6, 2016 - Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church
March 13, 2016 - St. Gregory the Great
First Part
1. Overture - p. 1
2. chorus Lord! Thou alone art God - p. 9-19
3. choral To God on high - p. 20
4. recitative And the many that Believed
5. chorus Now this man ceaseth not - p. 24-33
6. recitative & chorus And all that sat in the council - p. 38-39
7. aria (S) Jerusalem! Thou that killest the Prophets
8. recitative & chorus Then they ran upon him; Stone him to death (He blasphemes God) - p. 43-48
9. recitative & choral And they Stoned him; To thee, O Lord. I yield my spirit - p. 49-50
10. recitative And the Witnesses
11. chorus Happy and Blest are they - p. 51-59
12. recitative (T) & aria (B) And Saul made havock of the Church; Consume them all
13. recitative & arioso (Sii) But the Lord is mindful of his own
14. recitative & chorus The Conversion - p. 68-69
15. chorus Rise! Up! Arise! - p. 70-83
16. choral Sleepers, wake, a voice is calling - p. 84-85
17. recitative And his companions
18. aria (B) O God, have Mercy
19. recitative And there was a Disciple
20. aria (B) & chorus I praise thee, O Lord - p. 92-99
21. recitative And Ananias went his way
22. chorus O great is the depth - p. 102-112
INTERMISSION
Second Part
23. chorus The Nations are now the Lord's - p. 113-127
24. recitative And Paul came to the congregation
25. duettino (TB) Now we are Ambassadors
26. chorus How lovely are the Messengers - p. 131-136
27. recitative & Arioso I will sing of thy great mercies
28. recitative & chorus But when the Jews; Thus saith the Lord; And they laid wait for Paul - p. 140-141
29. chorus & choral Is this he?; O Thou, the True and Only Light - p. 142-147, 148-151
30. recitative But Paul and Barnabas spake freely
31. duet (TB) For so hath the Lord
32. recitative And there was a man at Lystra
33. chorus The gods themselves - p. 157-160
34. recitative And they call Barnabas, Jupiter
35. chorus O be gracious, Ye Immortals - p. 161-165
36. recitative & chorus Now when the Apostles; For know ye not?; But our God abideth in Heaven! - p. 171-178
37. recitative Then the Multitude
38. chorus This is Jehovah's Temple - p. 179-185
39. recitative And they all persecuted Paul
40. cavatine (T) Be though faithful unto death
41. recitative And Paul sent and called the elders
42. chorus Far be it from thy path - p. 190-191
43. chorus See what love - p. 193-196
44. recitative And though he be offered
45. chorus Not only unto him - p. 198-207
Kirsten Leslie, soprano
Callie Wohletz, soprano
Julia Hardin, alto
Hoss Brock, tenor
Vince Wallace, bass
Full orchestra of International Chamber Artists (ICA)
Back to top
March 13, 2016 - St. Gregory the Great
First Part
1. Overture - p. 1
2. chorus Lord! Thou alone art God - p. 9-19
3. choral To God on high - p. 20
4. recitative And the many that Believed
5. chorus Now this man ceaseth not - p. 24-33
6. recitative & chorus And all that sat in the council - p. 38-39
7. aria (S) Jerusalem! Thou that killest the Prophets
8. recitative & chorus Then they ran upon him; Stone him to death (He blasphemes God) - p. 43-48
9. recitative & choral And they Stoned him; To thee, O Lord. I yield my spirit - p. 49-50
10. recitative And the Witnesses
11. chorus Happy and Blest are they - p. 51-59
12. recitative (T) & aria (B) And Saul made havock of the Church; Consume them all
13. recitative & arioso (Sii) But the Lord is mindful of his own
14. recitative & chorus The Conversion - p. 68-69
15. chorus Rise! Up! Arise! - p. 70-83
16. choral Sleepers, wake, a voice is calling - p. 84-85
17. recitative And his companions
18. aria (B) O God, have Mercy
19. recitative And there was a Disciple
20. aria (B) & chorus I praise thee, O Lord - p. 92-99
21. recitative And Ananias went his way
22. chorus O great is the depth - p. 102-112
INTERMISSION
Second Part
23. chorus The Nations are now the Lord's - p. 113-127
24. recitative And Paul came to the congregation
25. duettino (TB) Now we are Ambassadors
26. chorus How lovely are the Messengers - p. 131-136
27. recitative & Arioso I will sing of thy great mercies
28. recitative & chorus But when the Jews; Thus saith the Lord; And they laid wait for Paul - p. 140-141
29. chorus & choral Is this he?; O Thou, the True and Only Light - p. 142-147, 148-151
30. recitative But Paul and Barnabas spake freely
31. duet (TB) For so hath the Lord
32. recitative And there was a man at Lystra
33. chorus The gods themselves - p. 157-160
34. recitative And they call Barnabas, Jupiter
35. chorus O be gracious, Ye Immortals - p. 161-165
36. recitative & chorus Now when the Apostles; For know ye not?; But our God abideth in Heaven! - p. 171-178
37. recitative Then the Multitude
38. chorus This is Jehovah's Temple - p. 179-185
39. recitative And they all persecuted Paul
40. cavatine (T) Be though faithful unto death
41. recitative And Paul sent and called the elders
42. chorus Far be it from thy path - p. 190-191
43. chorus See what love - p. 193-196
44. recitative And though he be offered
45. chorus Not only unto him - p. 198-207
Kirsten Leslie, soprano
Callie Wohletz, soprano
Julia Hardin, alto
Hoss Brock, tenor
Vince Wallace, bass
Full orchestra of International Chamber Artists (ICA)
Back to top
Photos by Michael Blaszak
'Tis Love That's Born
December 4, 6, & 13, 2015
Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 203 S Kensington Ave, La Grange, IL 60525
CONCERT ORDER
Away in a Manger, verse 1 SING-ALONG
IV. A Day in a Manger (Away in a Manger) from Anniversary Carols - by Jackson Berkey
The Nativity - by Eric Thiman
A short Christmas cantata for soprano & tenor soli, chorus & organ
COPYRIGHT 1934 (nodding to our 30th Anniversary Season)
Includes the below hymns and other familiar texts from Messiah:
Prologue: On Jordan’s Bank
Part I: Hail to the Lord’s Anointed!
Part II: Glory to God, From Heaven Above the Angels Come
Part III: Epiphany: Where is He that is Born? (T/B), How Brightly Beams the Morning Star!, In Bethlehem (T/B), Brightest and Best
Epilogue: Arise, Shine, for Thy Light Is Come
Concluding Hymn: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling - SING-ALONG
Elizabeth Blanke, soprano
Klaus Georg, tenor
Kati Lechner, alto
Marvin Taylor, tenor
INTERMISSION
Christmas Sonnet - by Lee Dengler
LITTLE SET: 3 Little Lambs – text by William Blake:
The Lamb (2015) – by Bob Moore
Little Lamb (2004) – by David Cherwien
The Lamb (1982) – by John Tavener
I am a Little Dreydl - Arr. by Mark Zuckerman
O Little Town of Bethlehem - Arr. by Hal Hopson
SING-ALONG: vs 1 (SA only), vs 2 ALL, vs 3 CHOIR, vs 4 ALL
What Child Is This (Greensleeves) - Arr. by T. Frederick H. Candlyn
SING-ALONG on the refrains
Some Children See Him - Arr. by Jay Rouse
Let Us Adore Him - Arr. by John Lee
ENCORE – Silent Night, verse 1 SING-ALONG
VII. Still, Still Night (Silent Night) from Anniversary Carols
Kati Lechner, alto soloist
Brass: Ryan Hobbs & Amy Nelson, trumpets; Keri Godon, horn; Jonathan Houghtling, trombone
Back to top
Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 203 S Kensington Ave, La Grange, IL 60525
CONCERT ORDER
Away in a Manger, verse 1 SING-ALONG
IV. A Day in a Manger (Away in a Manger) from Anniversary Carols - by Jackson Berkey
The Nativity - by Eric Thiman
A short Christmas cantata for soprano & tenor soli, chorus & organ
COPYRIGHT 1934 (nodding to our 30th Anniversary Season)
Includes the below hymns and other familiar texts from Messiah:
Prologue: On Jordan’s Bank
Part I: Hail to the Lord’s Anointed!
Part II: Glory to God, From Heaven Above the Angels Come
Part III: Epiphany: Where is He that is Born? (T/B), How Brightly Beams the Morning Star!, In Bethlehem (T/B), Brightest and Best
Epilogue: Arise, Shine, for Thy Light Is Come
Concluding Hymn: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling - SING-ALONG
Elizabeth Blanke, soprano
Klaus Georg, tenor
Kati Lechner, alto
Marvin Taylor, tenor
INTERMISSION
Christmas Sonnet - by Lee Dengler
LITTLE SET: 3 Little Lambs – text by William Blake:
The Lamb (2015) – by Bob Moore
Little Lamb (2004) – by David Cherwien
The Lamb (1982) – by John Tavener
I am a Little Dreydl - Arr. by Mark Zuckerman
O Little Town of Bethlehem - Arr. by Hal Hopson
SING-ALONG: vs 1 (SA only), vs 2 ALL, vs 3 CHOIR, vs 4 ALL
What Child Is This (Greensleeves) - Arr. by T. Frederick H. Candlyn
SING-ALONG on the refrains
Some Children See Him - Arr. by Jay Rouse
Let Us Adore Him - Arr. by John Lee
ENCORE – Silent Night, verse 1 SING-ALONG
VII. Still, Still Night (Silent Night) from Anniversary Carols
Kati Lechner, alto soloist
Brass: Ryan Hobbs & Amy Nelson, trumpets; Keri Godon, horn; Jonathan Houghtling, trombone
Back to top
Photos by Michael Blaszak
30th Anniversary Gala Celebration
November 6, 2015
Marriott, Burr Ridge
Quartet of singers representing the Tower Chorale: Erin Cleary, soprano; Mary Ubatuba, alto; Mark Miner, tenor; Bruce MacLean, bass
Guest soloists: Dr. Douglas Anderson & Janet Mensen Reynolds
Guest accompanist: Betsy Waldon
Benefit Committee: Jennifer Hendricks, Selmin Cicek, & Kati Lechner
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Marriott, Burr Ridge
Quartet of singers representing the Tower Chorale: Erin Cleary, soprano; Mary Ubatuba, alto; Mark Miner, tenor; Bruce MacLean, bass
Guest soloists: Dr. Douglas Anderson & Janet Mensen Reynolds
Guest accompanist: Betsy Waldon
Benefit Committee: Jennifer Hendricks, Selmin Cicek, & Kati Lechner
Back to top
Photos by Max Moskal
Folkfest
May 15 & 16, 2015 - Nazareth Academy
I am a Poor Wayfaring Stranger – Arr. by Donald Bailey
Erin Cleary, soprano soloist
Workin’ on the Railroad! – Arr. by Donald Moore (TTB)
If You've Only Got a Moustache – by Stephen Foster, Arr. by Larry Shackley
Mark Miner, tenor soloist
Slumber My Darling – by Stephen Foster, Arr. by David Düsing (SSA)
Oh! Susanna – by Stephen Foster, Arr. by Alice Parker & Robert Shaw
Shenandoah – American Folk Song, Arr. by James Erb
My Johnny’s A Soldier – Arr. by Catherine Bennett (SSA)
This Land is Your Land – Woody Guthrie, Arr. by Robert DeCormier INCLUDES SING-A-LONG
Paul Greene, bass soloist
INTERMISSION
Blowin’ in the Wind – Bob Dylan, Arr. by Len Thomas
Where Have All the Flowers Gone – Pete Seeger, Arr. by Robert DeCormier INCLUDES SING-A-LONG
Erin Cleary, soprano soloist; Jennifer Henricks, alto soloist; Mark Miner, tenor soloist
The Sound of Silence – Paul Simon, Arr. by Mark Hayes
Bridge Over Troubled Water – Paul Simon, Arr. by Kirby Shaw
Melissa Adamson, soprano soloist; John Rosenberg, bass soloist
Loves Me Like a Rock – Paul Simon, Arr. by Greg Gilpin
Jennifer Hendricks, alto soloist; Mark Miner, tenor soloist
Hallelujah – Leonard Cohen, Arr. by Roger Emerson
Tom Licar, bass soloist
John Denver: A Legacy of Song – MEDLEY Arr. by Ed Lojeski
Encore: Turn, Turn, Turn, - Pete Seeger, Arr. by Roger Emerson
Jennifer Hendricks, alto soloist
Back to top
Photos by Michael Blaszak
Glories of French Music
May 9, 2015 - Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church
Concert with the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra & Elmhurst Choral Union
Stephen Alltop, conductor
Gabriel Fauré - Requiem, Op. 48 (Rutter Edition)
Photos by Michael Blaszak
Fauré Masterworks
March 1, 2015 - St. Cletus Church
March 8, 2015 - St. Gregory the Great
Gabriel Fauré - Tantum Ergo, Op. 65, No. 2 (1894) Trio for Treble Soloists and SSA Choir
Fauré - Three Motets
Maria, Mater Gratiae, Op. 47, No. 2 (1888) Duet for Treble Choir
Ave Maria, Op. 67, No. 2 (1894) Unison Treble Choir
Ave Verum Corpus, Op. 65, No. 1 (1894) Duet for Treble Choir
Fauré - Tantum Ergo (1904) Soprano Soloist & SATB Choir
Fauré - Cantique de Jean Racine, Op. 11 (1865) SATB
INTERMISSION
Fauré - Requiem, Op. 48 (Rutter Edition)
Kristen Frost, soprano
Thomas Hall, bass-baritone
Chamber orchestra of International Chamber Artists (ICA)
Back to top
Photos by Michael Blaszak
Feliz Navidad: A Concert of Holiday Warmth
December 5 & 7, 2014 - Holy Trinity Catholic Church
CONCERT ORDER
God Rest You Merry! – Arr. by Jim Winfield and dedicated to the TC (includes a Sing-a-long)
Carols and Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest – Arr. by Conrad Susa
I. ¡Oh, mi Belén!
II. El Desembre Congelat (Catalan)
III. Alegrìa
Soloists: Carlos Miguel-Pueyo, John Rosenberg, & Marvin Taylor
IV. A la Nanita Nana
V. Las Posadas
VI. Campana sobre Campana
VII. En Belén Tocan a Fuego
Soloists: Mary Ubatuba & Jean Harrison
VIII. El Noi de la Mare (Catalan)
Soloists: Erin Cleary, Jen Hendricks, Mark Miner, & Paul Greene
IX. Chiquirriquitìn
X. El Rorro
INTERMISSION
A Child is Born (based on Londonderry Air) – Arr. by Mary McDonald
I Wonder As I Wander – Arr. by J. Aaron McDermid
Diana Myhre, soloist
O Holy Night – Arr. by Brian Luckner (TC files 2011)
Infant Holy, Infant Lowly – Traditional Polish, arr. by Grant Cochran
Melissa Adamson, soloist
Tres Villancicos – Arr. by Ben Allaway (TC files)
I. Dadme Albricias (sung in Castilian)
II. Rìu, Rìu Chiu (sung in Castilian)
Soloists: Karen Smith & Mark Miner
III. Dansaron (sung in early Catalan)
Soloists: Karen Smith & Paul Greene
ENCORE: Jingle All the Way Medley (includes Sing-a-long) - Arr. by David T. Clydesdale
Featuring Jingle Bells, Deck the Hall, Jolly Old St. Nicholas, Over the River, Up on the Housetop, We Wish You a Merry
Christmas, and Feliz Navidad.
Instrumentalists: Catherine Chabot, flute; Tija Danilovics, harp; Jason Deroche, guitar; Josh Hooten, percussion; Sarah Carrillo & Leslie Scarpino, trumpets; Keri Godon, horn; Chelsea French, trombone
Guest choir: Holy Trinity School Children, grades 6-8
Back to top
Photos by Michael Blaszak
Here Comes the Sun: Music of the Beatles
May 3 & 4, 2014 - Nazareth Academy
CONCERT ORDER
Ob-la-di, Ob-la-da ~ Arr. by Audrey Snyder
If I Fell ~ Arr. by Mac Huff
Let it Be ~ Arr. by Kirby Shaw
Jennifer Hendricks & Bruce MacLean, soloists
Can't Buy Me Love ~ Arr. by Kirby Shaw
In My Life ~ Arr. by Greg Jasperese
And I Love Her ~ Arr. by Snyder
Bruce MacLean, soloist
Good Day, Sunshine ~ Arr. by Kirby Shaw
Paul Greene, soloist
INTERMISSION
Here Comes the Sun ~ Arr. by Alan Billingsley
MEDLEY: Love Is All You Need (A Tribute to the Beatles) ~ Arr. by Roger Emerson
Includes: All You Need Is Love - Paul Greene, soloist
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band
With A Little Help From My Friends - Tom Licar, soloist
Imagine - Carleen Van Dahm, soloist
A Hard Day's Night
Ticket To Ride - Bruce MacLean & John Rosenberg, soloists
The Long And Winding Road - Marvin Taylor soloist
When I'm Sixty-Four
Strawberry Fields Forever
Yesterday - Nicole Melody, soloist
She Loves You
All You Need Is Love (reprise)
Good Night ~ Arr. by Audrey Snyder
ENCORE: Hello, Goodbye - Arr. Adam Anders, Tim Rice & Mac Huff
Mark & Barb Miner, soloists
Band: Jim Tashjian, guitar; Martin Stonikas, bass; Pete Tashjian, drums
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Photos by Michael Blaszak
Brahms Requiem: A German Requiem for All
March 2, 2014 - Divine Infant
March 9, 2014 - St. Gregory the Great
Johannes Brahms, Ein deutsches Requiem, Op. 45
Andrew Raiskums & Philip Legge edition
1. Chorus: Selig sind, die da Leid tragen (Blessed are those who mourn)
2. Chorus: Denn alles Fleisch es ist wie Gras (For all flesh is like grass) - p. 16
Die Erlöseten des Herrn (The redeemed of the Lord) - p. 31, m. 206
3. Bass Solo and Chorus: Herr, lehre doch mich (Lord, teach me) - p. 45
4. Chorus: Wie lieblich sind deine Wohnungen (How lovely are your dwellings) - p. 64
5. Soprano Solo and Chorus: Ihr habt nun Traurigkeit (You now have sorrow) - p. 77
6. Baritone Solo and Chorus: Denn wir haben hie keine bleibende Statt (For here we have no permanent place) - p. 85
Denn es wird die Posaune schallen (For the trumpet will sound) - p. 90, m. 82
Herr, du bist würdig (Lord, you are worthy) - p. 99, m. 208
7. Chorus: Selig sind die Toten (Blessed are the dead) - p. 115
Erin Philleo, soprano
Eric Miranda, bass-baritone
Full orchestra of International Chamber Artists (ICA)
Back to top
Photos by Michael Blaszak
Spirit of the Season
December 14 & 15, 2013 - St. Cletus
CONCERT ORDER
Christmas Day: Choral Fantasy on Old Carols – Gustav Holst AUDIENCE SING ALONG WITH p. 5 & 6
Includes God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Old Breton Melody, The First Noel
SOLOISTS: Karen Smith, mezzo; Erin Cleary, soprano; Marv Taylor, tenor; John Rosenberg, baritone; Paul Greene, bass
Still, Still, Still (SSATTBB & piano) ~ Arr. by Barlow Bradford
Shout for Joy: A Suite of Christmas Spirituals ~ Robert DeCormier
(2013 is the 150 year anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation)
1. Rise Up Shepherd
2. What Month Was My Jesus Born In?
Nicole Melody, soprano solo
3. The Virgin Mary Had-A One Son
4. Shout For Joy
5. Go Tell It on the Mountain
Jennifer Sherrill, soprano solo
INTERMISSION
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel – Arr. by Samuel Metzger AUDIENCE SING ALONG
O Holy Night ~ Brian Luckner
Rockabye, Sweet Baby Boy – Arr. by Stan Pethel
I Just Heard Some Good News - Arr. by Jay Althouse (TTBB)
SOLOISTS: Todd Combs, tenor; Martin Daley, bass
Home for the Holidays – Arr. by Don Craig (SSA)
SOLOISTS: Mary Ubatuba, alto; Nancy Krames, alto
Carol of the Bells (jazzy) – Arr. by Kirby Shaw
Silver Bells from The Lemon Drop Kid - Arr. by Kevin Robison
ENCORE: Deep Peace – Bill Douglas
Brass: Brian Reichenbach & D. Kyle Upton, trumpets; Keri Godon, horn; Rachel Castellanos, trombone
Guest choir: St. Cletus Youth Choirs
Back to top
Photos by Michael Blaszak
Songs My Mother Taught Me
May 11 & 12, 2013 - Nazareth Academy
CONCERT ORDER
The Silken Thread ~ Jan Sanborn
Songs My Mother Taught Me ~ Antonin Dvorak, Arr. by Ron Kean
Freedom River ~ Patrick M. O’Shea
soloist: Diana Myhre
oboe: Laura Perkett
Ave Maria ~ Franz Schubert, arr. by Cesare Sodero (TTBB)
soloist: Kathryn Greenfield
Lullaby ~ Johannes Brahms
Lullaby ~ Edward Elgar
Lullabye ~ Billy Joel, Arr. by Roger Emerson (SSA)
Wind of the Western Sea ~ Bill Douglas
Sleep, Kentucky Babe ~ Wayland Rogers (SSA)
The Teddy Bears' Picnic ~ John Bratton, Arr. by Andrew Carter
INTERMISSION
Hail Holy Queen from Sister Act ~ Arr. by Mark Shaiman
soloist: Sharon McBride
You’ll Be in My Heart from Tarzan ~ Phil Collins
soloist: John Rosenberg
Over the Rainbow, Arr. by Russ Robinson
The Rainbow Connection from The Muppet Movie ~ Paul Williams and Kenny Ascher, Arr. by Hawly Ades
The Sound of Music Medley ~ Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein, Arr. by Clay Warnick
soloists: Kathryn Greenfield, Lillibeth MacLean, Sharon McBride, Diana Myhre, & Jennifer Sherrill
ENCORE: Lollipop ~ Arr. by Greg Jasperse
Band: Ken Ross, jazz guitar; Charlie Kirchen, bass; Andrew Green, drums
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Photos by Michael Blaszak
Mozart the Great
March 3, 2013 - Divine Infant
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Mass in C Minor, K. 427 (417a) “The Great”
Barenreiter Urtext edition, completed by Helmut Eder
Choruses
p. 2 - Kyrie
p. 11 - Gloria
p. 25 - Gratias
p. 32 - Qui tollis
p. 52 - Jesu Christe
p. 53 - Cum Sancto Spiritu
p. 67 - Credo
p. 87 - Sanctus
p. 91 - Hosanna
p. 110 - Hosanna
Laura Pinto, soprano
Juliet Petrus, soprano
Zachary Vanderburg, tenor
Douglas Anderson, bass
Full orchestra of International Chamber Artists (ICA)
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Photos by Michael Blaszak
Time for Joy
November 30 & December 1, 2012 - St. John of the Cross
CONCERT ORDER
Jingle Bells ~ Arr. by Audrey Snyder
Winter Wonderland ~ Arr. by Leo Arnaud
soloist: Jean Harrison
Once in Royal David’s City ~ Arr. by Howard Helvey (TB)
Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella ~ Arr. by Howard Helvey
O Magnum Mysterium ~ Morten Lauridsen
St. John of the Cross Children’s Choirs sing 2 selections on their own
Lullabies for the Christ Child ~ Arr. Craig Courtney, SATB Choir & Children’s Choirs
Joy to the World ~ Arr. Richard Proulx SING ALONG (Verses 1 & 3) & Children’s Choirs
INTERMISSION
Joyful, All Ye Nations, Rise! ~ Arr. by Mary McDonald, SING ALONG
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas ~ Arr. Mark Hayes
soloist: Erin Cleary
Sleep Well, Thou Child of God ~ Patrick Godon
Angels We Have Heard on High ~ Arr. Matthew Culloton
The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy ~ Traditional Trinidad Carol, Arr. Stephen Hatfield
Ave Maria ~ Anton Bruckner
Patapan ~ Arr. Sandra Peter (SSAA)
O Holy Night ~ Brian Luckner
Deck the Hall, Arr. John D. Miller
ENCORE: Good King Kong Looked Out ~ P. D. Q. Bach
Brass: Ian Cochran & D. Kyle Upton, trumpets; Keri Godon, horn; Rachel Castellanos, trombone
Guest choir: St. John of the Cross Children's Choirs
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Photos by Michael Blaszak
Memorial Day Event
Battle Hymn of the Republic ~ Arr. Roy Ringwald
Navy Hymn ~ Arr. James Ployhar
Armed Forces Salute ~ Arr. Joyce Eilers
Nearer, My God, To Thee ~ Arr. Keith Brion & Loras Schissel
A Night of Gershwin
May 5 & 6, 2012 - Nazareth Academy
CONCERT ORDER
Strike Up the Band ~ Arr. Pete King
Someone to Watch Over Me ~ Arr. Jay Althouse
soloist: Darlene Parker & Bruce MacLean
They Can’t Take That Away From Me ~ Arr. Carl Strommen
But Not For Me ~ Arr. Phillip Kern
soloist: Erin Cleary
Nice Work If You Can Get It ~ Arr. Greg Gilpin
Embraceable You ~ Arr. Jay Althouse
Oh, Lady Be Good ~ Arr. Douglas Mac Lean (TTBB)
soloist: Mark Miner
I've Got a Crush on You ~ HS Vocal Comp song #1
Slap That Bass ~ Arr. Larry Shackley
‘S Wonderful ~ Arr. Russell Robinson
soloists: John & Diana Myhre
I Got Rhythm ~ Arr. Mark Hayes
INTERMISSION
(Raffle drawing)
By Strauss ~ HS Vocal Comp song #2
Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off ~ Arr. Russell Robinson
A Foggy Day ~ Arr. Russell Robinson
soloists: Diana Myhre & John Rosenberg
Fascinating Rhythm ~ Arr. Mac Huff
The Man I Love ~ Arr. Mark Hayes (SSAA)
Love is Here to Stay ~ Arr. Darmon Meader
Porgy & Bess Medley ~ Arr. Ed Lojeski
soloists: Lilibeth MacLean, J-nett Asa, Paul Greene
ENCORE: Clap Yo’ Hands ~ Arr. Greg Gilpin
soloists: Judy Concklin & Jennifer Sherrill
Band: Ken Ross, jazz guitar; Matt Ulery, bass; Jon Dietemyer, drums
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Photos by Michael Blaszak
The Creation by Franz Joseph Haydn
March 4, 2012 - Divine Infant
March 11, 2012 - St. Mary of the Angels Church, Chicago
Peters edition, Urtext edited by Klaus Burmeister
Choruses
No. 2, p. 4 - And the Spirit of God
No. 3, p. 11 - Despairing, cursing rage
No. 5, p. 23 - And from th'ethereal vaults resound
No. 11, p. 43 - Awake the harp
No. 14, p. 56 - The heavens are telling
No. 20, p. 96 - The Lord is great
No. 27, p. 127 - Achieved is the glorious work
No. 29, p. 140 - Achieved is the glorious work
No. 31, p. 154 - For ever blessed be his pow'r
No. 35, p. 204 - Sing the Lord, ye voices all!
Christine Robertson, soprano
Janet Mensen Reynolds, mezzo-soprano
Javier Bernardo, tenor
Jeffrey DeLay, bass
Full orchestra of International Chamber Artists (ICA)
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Do You Hear What I Hear? Holiday Classics with The Tower Chorale
December 3 & 4, 2011 - St. Cletus
CONCERT ORDER
O Come All Ye Faithful ~ Arr. by Robert Clatterbuck, SING ALONG
Carol of the Bells ~ Arr. by Wilhousky
Ding Dong! Merrily on High ~ 16th c. French tune, Arr. by Alwes
Jingle Bells ~ Arr. by Audrey Snyder
What Sweeter Music ~ Rutter
Angels We Have Heard on High ~ Arr. Jackson Berkey
Still, Still, Still ~ Austrian Carol, Arr. by Norman Luboff
The Holly and the Ivy ~ Richard Shephard
Good Christian Men, Rejoice (MEN) ~ Hamilton
Ave Maria ~ Franz Biebl
soloists: Peter Harrison, Mark Miner, Anthony King
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year ~ Ades
INTERMISSION, then Highlands Show Choir performs 3 songs
Hark! The Herald ~ Pelz SING ALONG
O Tannenbaum ~ Winfield
Lo, How a Rose (WOMEN) ~ Sutcliffe
Go Tell It (Spiritual) ~ Arr. by Carolyn Jennings
White Christmas – Irving Berlin, Arr. Kirby Shaw
O Holy Night ~ Brian Luckner
Do You Hear What I Hear? ~ Regney/Shayne Arr. by Harry Simeone
Encore: We Wish (anonymous) and Yorkshire Wassail (Eng) – Brandvik
Brass: Christian Anderson & Ian Cochran, trumpets; Keri Godon, horn; Arkadiusz Gorecki, trombone
Guest choir: Highlands Show Choir
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Concert Titles, Dates, & Locations from 1986 founding to 2011
Jim Winfield, Music Director
A Night to Remember
May 6 & 7, 2011 - Nazareth Academy
3 B's
March 6, 2011 - Divine Infant
Silver Bells
December 3 & 4, 2010 - St. John of the Cross
America Sings!
November 7, 2010
Steppin' Out on Broadway!
May 8, 2010 - Nazareth Academy
Music of the Masters (Bach, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Mozart Requiem)
March 7, 2010 - Divine Infant
Rejoice! A Holiday Celebration with Strings
December 11 & 12, 2009 - St. John of the Cross
Night at the Prom
May 9, 2009 - Nazareth Academy
Your Majesty
March 8, 2009 - Divine Infant
Holiday Magic
December 6 & 7, 2008 - Union Church
Let's Go to the Movies!
April 26, 2008 - Reber Center
Sounds of Paradise - Requiems
March 2, 2008 - Divine Infant
Heaven and Nature Sing
December 8 & 9, 2007 - Union Church
As Time Goes By
April 28, 2007 - Reber Center
King David
March 4, 2007 - Divine Infant
O Tannenbaum
December 2 & 3, 2006 - Union Church
42nd Street
May 6, 2006 - Reber Center
Mendelssohn's Elijah
March 5, 2006 - Divine Infant
Sing in Exultation!
December 2 & 3, 2005 - St. John of the Cross
The Envelope Please!
May 7, 2005 - Hinsdale High School
Handel's Saul
March 6, 2005 - Divine Infant
God Rest Ye Merry!
December 4 & 5, 2004 - Union Church
Songs from the Melting Pot
May 8, 2004 - Hinsdale High School
Grant Us Peace!
March 7, 2004 - Divine Infant
The Promise of Christmas "A Season of Peace"
December 6 & 7, 2003 - Western Springs Baptist Church
As Time Goes By III
May 10, 2003 - Hinsdale High School
Music of Johannes Brahms
March 2, 2003 - Divine Infant
I Heard the Bells!
December 6 & 7, 2002 - St. John of the Cross
As Time Goes By II
May 11, 2002 - Hinsdale High School
Sacred Masterworks, Cantata No. 21, Bach, Durufle Requiem, Op. 9
March 3, 2002 - Seventh-Day Adventist
A Christmas Garland
December 1 & 2, 2001 - Divine Infant
Show of Shows
May 12, 2001 - Hinsdale High School
Beethoven Mass in C (and others)
March 4, 2001 - Divine Infant
A Joyful Noise
December 1 & 2, 2000 - St. John of the Cross
Songs from Many Homelands
May 20, 2000 - Hinsdale High School
Haydn's The Seasons
March 5, 2000 - St. Louise De Marillac
Chorus, Brass and Christmas
December 4 & 5, 1999 - Westchester Community Church
As Time Goes By
May 8, 1999 - Hinsdale High School
Amadeus Live, Mozart's Ave Verum Corpus, Requiem Mass
March 7, 1999 - St. Louise De Marillac
Winter Wonderland
December 5 & 6, 1998 - Divine Infant
America from Heritage to Fantasy
May 9, 1998 - Hinsdale High School
Saint Paul, Op. 36
March 1, 1998 - St. Louise De Marillac
Angels Heard on High
December 5 & 7, 1997 - Divine Infant
The Tower Chorale Classics
May 17, 1997 - Hinsdale High School
Music of Brahms, A German Requiem, Song of the Fates, Tragic Overture
March 9, 1997 - St. Louise De Marillac
'Tis the Season
December 6 & 7, 1996 - St. John of the Cross
The Tower Chorale's Greatest Hits
May 18, 1996 - Hinsdale High School
Mendelssohn's Elijah
March 10, 1996 - St. Louise De Marillac
Hark the Glad Sound
December 1 & 2, 1995 - St. Francis Xavier
A Choral Spectacular
May 20, 1995 - Hinsdale High School
A Joint Concert, Pomp and Circumstance March, Elgar, Five Mystical Songs, Vaughn Williams, Belshazzar's Feast, Walton
March 10 & 12, 1995 - Divine Infant
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
December 9 & 10, 1994 - St. Louise De Marillac
Sing Out America
May 21, 1994 - Hinsdale High School
Songs of Praise, Handel's Coronation Anthems, Poulenc's Gloria
March 6, 1994 - Divine Infant
Festival of Joy
December 3 & 4, 1993 - St. John's Lutheran Church
Porgy and Bess
May 15, 1993 - Hinsdale High School
At Your Request, Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem, Purcell, Song of Destiny, Op. 54, Brahms, Faure Requiem, Op. 48
March 7, 1993 - Divine Infant
Joy to the World
December 11 & 12, 1992 - Bethlehem Center
Hooray for Hollywood
May 16, 1992 - Hinsdale High School
Hosanna, Excerpts from All Night Vigil, Rachmaninoff, Rutter Requiem
March 8, 1992 - St. John's Lutheran Church
Handel's Messiah and Do-it-yourself Messiah
December 6 & 7, 1991 - St. John of the Cross/St. Barbara's
Opera, Operetta, Et Cetera
May 18, 1991 - Hinsdale High School
War and Peace, Mass in Time of War, Haydn, Dona Nobis Pacem, Vaughn Williams
March 10, 1991 - St. Cletus
Joyeux Noel
December 7 & 8, 1990 - Bethlehem Center
The Best of Broadway
June 2, 1990 - Hinsdale High School
The Creation, Haydn
March 11, 1990 - Seventh-Day Adventist
Joy to the World
December 1 & 2, 1989 - St. John's Lutheran Church
Familiar Classics for Chorus and Orchestra
April 30, 1989 - Hinsdale High School
Tragic Overture, A German Requiem Op. 45, Brahms
February 25, 1989 - St. John of the Cross
Songs from Many Homelands
November 20, 1988 - Bethlehem Center
A Broadway Spectacular
May 1, 1988 - Hinsdale High School
King David
February 21, 1988 - Hinsdale High School
Chorus, Brass and Christmas
November 22, 1987 - St. Francis Xavier
Sounds of Spring
May 5, 1987 - Lyons South
Mendelssohn's Elijah
February 22, 1987 - St. Cletus
America Sings!
November 16, 1986 - Bethlehem Center
History of The Tower Chorale
In the spring of 1986, the idea of a community chorus was developed by Mr. James Winfield and the Western Springs Community Center Association (WSCCA). He approached Charles Neal, President of the WSCCA, to ask if the association would be open to the idea of starting a community chorus to rehearse in the Grand Avenue School. Mr. Neal was enthusiastic about the idea, with the hope that such a group could become the flagship organization of the new community center.
A publicity campaign was launched with around 35 people singing for 10 minutes at an association meeting to present the possibility of forming a chorus. At a second meeting, 80 people attended and enthusiasm ran high. The decision was made by the WSCCA to sponsor the proposed community chorus and that rehearsals would be held at the Grand Avenue School in Western Springs.
The chorus formed an executive committee and soon, thereafter, the choral group was branded “The Tower Chorale,” a name designated by Mr. Winfield and approved by the executive committee to signify something uplifting and to denote the water tower landmark in Western Springs. The Tower Chorale began their first official season in the fall of 1986 with a concert entitled “America Sings.”
Later in the 1990s, the WSCCA finished its mission of retiring the bonds that were initially issued in order to fund the donation of Grand Center to the village of Western Springs as a community center. The Tower Chorale then began the arduous process of becoming an independent non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization and was officially created May 27, 1999.
Over the years, the group has numbered 80-90 vocalists comprised of amateur and professional adult singers of all ages and backgrounds. The roster has included former members of the Chicago Symphony Chorus, the Grant Park Symphony Chorus, the Light Opera Works, the Chicago Opera Theater, the Apollo Chorus and various community theater and music organizations. The Tower Chorale has become recognized as one of the premier vocal musical groups in the area enjoyed by over 1,500 patrons each concert season.
The purpose of the group is to offer the opportunity for choral music enjoyment and growth in an environment of fellowship, by means of a variety of secular and sacred musical experiences, providing an entertainment and artistic resource for the community and satisfaction for the performers.
The vision of the Tower Chorale has been to grow in its popularity with audiences and singers in order to sustain itself for the foreseeable future; to be regarded by its audience as an enjoyable and inspiring group to hear and by its members as a rewarding group with which to sing; to foster and broaden community appreciation for, and involvement in, the performing arts.
The Tower Chorale performs at a variety of concert sites around the local western suburban areas and includes three highly diversified concerts per year: 1) holiday concerts in December – sacred and secular music for the season accompanied by an instrumental ensemble and with a guest musical group, usually young people; 2) a “formal” concert in March of a traditional oratorio or other such work or works with professional soloists, usually accompanied by full orchestra; and, 3) a concert in May, with music ranging from Broadway to Hollywood, folk songs and world music, the “Great American Song Book” to pop music and rock ‘n roll.
Carnegie Hall
In May 2009, the Tower Chorale was invited along with several other choral groups to perform at Carnegie Hall. Members present from the Tower Chorale were: J-nett Asa, Murnie Baker, Carol Blatter, Judy Concklin, Linda Dukes, Jean Harrison, and Dorothy Stephan. Singing at Carnegie Hall was an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Tower Chorale and other choral groups were originally invited to perform at Carnegie Hall in a New Music program featuring K. Lee Scott’s “Requiem.” Previously, the composer had come up from Alabama to hear The Tower Chorale perform his great work under the direction of Jim Winfield in March of 2008.
Unfortunately, due to various factors and a lack of awareness of Mr. Scott’s beautiful work, the program was changed to the Fauré “Requiem” paired with a better-known work, John Rutter’s “Magnificat.” Any disappointment quickly dissipated when it was announced that Rutter would be conducting his own work.
Rehearsals were conducted most of Saturday, Sunday and part of Monday before the actual performance on Memorial Monday evening. There was so much to learn about singing and vocal expression, as top-notch professionals made the approximately 160 amateur singers sound far better than their best. During rehearsals and also in performance, the impish and elfin John Rutter cleverly cultivated a deep understanding of the exciting and brilliantly simple freshness of his work.
J-nett Asa recalls, “Walking into the legendary concert hall for dress rehearsal was highly emotional for me. So many greats had shown their art to the world in the place where I stood. I coughed just to hear myself. An indescribably pristine and phenomenal sound sang back to me. I was surprised at the minimal décor of the Isaac Stern Auditorium, with its basic sophistication unchanged since 1891. This quiet elegance only added to the thrill when the lights went down on a nearly full house of about 2700 people (including members of my family). Apparently the audience was as enchanted as I was that night – we got a standing ovation! Rutter's "Magnificat" was truly magnificent!”
Italy
In March 2013, a number of Tower Chorale members joined the choir from St. Gregory the Great Church in Chicago for a 10-day pilgrimage to Italy. Patrick Godon, Director of Music for both groups, conducted. Tower Chorale members included Murnie Baker, Cynthia Blaszak, Marty & Kathy Daley, Roger Dore & Ellen Peirce, Linda Dukes, Paul Greene, Peter & Jean Harrison, John Kulaga, Larry & Mary LaPalio, Tom Licar, Diane Muss, John & Diana Myhre, Mary Beth Niziol, Betsy Spiering, Ellen Spiering, Jim Reid, Don Robbins, Byron & Nanette Shinn, Bill Somers, Bill & Barbara Stratton, Marvin Taylor, and Wayne VerGowe. The group was invited to be the Principal Choir to sing at the Vatican for the 500th anniversary of the founding of the Cappella Giulia, the Musical Chapel Choir of St. Peter’s. This trip coincided, incidentally, with the election of the new pope, Pope Francis, of whom the choir caught a glimpse in his first public appearance after the election. A high point was the tour of Pompeii where the group sang “Deep Peace” at an outdoor amphitheater in memory of all the souls that lost their lives in the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.
One of the choir masses was at the magnificent Cathedral of Naples, San Gennaro. The pastor’s name was Padre Papa - Father Pope. Perhaps an omen that a new pope was imminent! Just before the end of the mass, Padre Papa called for applause for the choir, maestro Peterson and maestro Godon to affirm their efforts. He ended by inviting the choir to sing a concert on their next visit to Napoli. He was visibly pleased and even posed in a picture with the group at the end. He was elaborate and generous with his praise of the choir’s singing -- so much so, that one of our basses said he was so choked up he couldn’t sing the beginning of the last song. Our tour manager, Rita Felici, would later tell Patrick that this priest was “open-arms” once he heard the group sing, but when they asked permission earlier if the choir could do a concert there, he had said no. He changed his tune, so this also became a conversion tour!
On their way to their first Italian concert at the Church of Gesu Nuovo in Naples, the bus driver suddenly turned up the radio and thousands of people were cheering. Rita came on the microphone and announced, “We have a new pope!” It was an amazing time to be in Italy. The choir dedicated their concert to the new pope and the whole evening was electric. It was raining, but a good number of Neapolitans attended the concert. The choir’s last two songs were dedicated to a young man who was killed in a car accident exactly one year earlier, adding another layer of meaning to the performance. Many of his family members were in attendance. The choir sounded wonderful from beginning to end. The crowd went wild after the spiritual, “My Soul’s Been Anchored,” giving a standing ovation.
The group also toured Sorrento, Capri, the Amalfi Coast, Montecassino (a 5th century abbey), Mentorella, and sang at numerous beautiful churches along the way. Once in Rome, the choir sang at the four major basilicas, all magnificent: St. Mary Major’s, St. John Lateran, St. Paul’s Outside the Walls, and culminating with the moving service at St. Peter’s Basilica celebrating the 500th anniversary of the Cappella Giulia.
Music Directors
Patrick Godon began his tenure at the Tower Chorale in July of 2011. Mr. Godon has held many top-level posts in music. Since 2003, he has been Director of Music at St. Gregory the Great Church in Chicago. In 2006, he founded the International Chamber Artists (ICA), a Chicago-based chamber music ensemble of classically trained musicians. He has performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) as second keyboardist and has done piano solo work for them. He also performs with the CSO’s MusicNOW ensemble, the Ars Viva Symphony Orchestra, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, and the Delaware Symphony Orchestra. He has performed for four Dame Myra Hess concerts at the Chicago Cultural Center, broadcast live on WFMT. Mr. Godon holds the degree of Master of Music in Piano Performance from DePaul University. Click here for a full biography.
James Winfield served as founder and director of the Tower Chorale for 25 seasons, retiring in June 2011. He brought a wealth of professional experience to the group. He sang in the Chicago Symphony Chorus for seven years and served as Associate Director of that ensemble for eight years under its founder, Margaret Hillis. He spent another eight years as music director of the West Suburban Symphony Orchestra of Hinsdale and has had several choral and instrumental arrangements published. He served as Music Director and Organist of the First Congregational Churches of Western Springs and Elmhurst for a total of 41 years, and, since 1999, in the same capacity at the Oak Park Temple B’nai Abraham Zion. Mr. Winfield holds music degrees from Indiana University and Northwestern University.
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May 6 & 7, 2011 - Nazareth Academy
3 B's
March 6, 2011 - Divine Infant
Silver Bells
December 3 & 4, 2010 - St. John of the Cross
America Sings!
November 7, 2010
Steppin' Out on Broadway!
May 8, 2010 - Nazareth Academy
Music of the Masters (Bach, Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Mozart Requiem)
March 7, 2010 - Divine Infant
Rejoice! A Holiday Celebration with Strings
December 11 & 12, 2009 - St. John of the Cross
Night at the Prom
May 9, 2009 - Nazareth Academy
Your Majesty
March 8, 2009 - Divine Infant
Holiday Magic
December 6 & 7, 2008 - Union Church
Let's Go to the Movies!
April 26, 2008 - Reber Center
Sounds of Paradise - Requiems
March 2, 2008 - Divine Infant
Heaven and Nature Sing
December 8 & 9, 2007 - Union Church
As Time Goes By
April 28, 2007 - Reber Center
King David
March 4, 2007 - Divine Infant
O Tannenbaum
December 2 & 3, 2006 - Union Church
42nd Street
May 6, 2006 - Reber Center
Mendelssohn's Elijah
March 5, 2006 - Divine Infant
Sing in Exultation!
December 2 & 3, 2005 - St. John of the Cross
The Envelope Please!
May 7, 2005 - Hinsdale High School
Handel's Saul
March 6, 2005 - Divine Infant
God Rest Ye Merry!
December 4 & 5, 2004 - Union Church
Songs from the Melting Pot
May 8, 2004 - Hinsdale High School
Grant Us Peace!
March 7, 2004 - Divine Infant
The Promise of Christmas "A Season of Peace"
December 6 & 7, 2003 - Western Springs Baptist Church
As Time Goes By III
May 10, 2003 - Hinsdale High School
Music of Johannes Brahms
March 2, 2003 - Divine Infant
I Heard the Bells!
December 6 & 7, 2002 - St. John of the Cross
As Time Goes By II
May 11, 2002 - Hinsdale High School
Sacred Masterworks, Cantata No. 21, Bach, Durufle Requiem, Op. 9
March 3, 2002 - Seventh-Day Adventist
A Christmas Garland
December 1 & 2, 2001 - Divine Infant
Show of Shows
May 12, 2001 - Hinsdale High School
Beethoven Mass in C (and others)
March 4, 2001 - Divine Infant
A Joyful Noise
December 1 & 2, 2000 - St. John of the Cross
Songs from Many Homelands
May 20, 2000 - Hinsdale High School
Haydn's The Seasons
March 5, 2000 - St. Louise De Marillac
Chorus, Brass and Christmas
December 4 & 5, 1999 - Westchester Community Church
As Time Goes By
May 8, 1999 - Hinsdale High School
Amadeus Live, Mozart's Ave Verum Corpus, Requiem Mass
March 7, 1999 - St. Louise De Marillac
Winter Wonderland
December 5 & 6, 1998 - Divine Infant
America from Heritage to Fantasy
May 9, 1998 - Hinsdale High School
Saint Paul, Op. 36
March 1, 1998 - St. Louise De Marillac
Angels Heard on High
December 5 & 7, 1997 - Divine Infant
The Tower Chorale Classics
May 17, 1997 - Hinsdale High School
Music of Brahms, A German Requiem, Song of the Fates, Tragic Overture
March 9, 1997 - St. Louise De Marillac
'Tis the Season
December 6 & 7, 1996 - St. John of the Cross
The Tower Chorale's Greatest Hits
May 18, 1996 - Hinsdale High School
Mendelssohn's Elijah
March 10, 1996 - St. Louise De Marillac
Hark the Glad Sound
December 1 & 2, 1995 - St. Francis Xavier
A Choral Spectacular
May 20, 1995 - Hinsdale High School
A Joint Concert, Pomp and Circumstance March, Elgar, Five Mystical Songs, Vaughn Williams, Belshazzar's Feast, Walton
March 10 & 12, 1995 - Divine Infant
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
December 9 & 10, 1994 - St. Louise De Marillac
Sing Out America
May 21, 1994 - Hinsdale High School
Songs of Praise, Handel's Coronation Anthems, Poulenc's Gloria
March 6, 1994 - Divine Infant
Festival of Joy
December 3 & 4, 1993 - St. John's Lutheran Church
Porgy and Bess
May 15, 1993 - Hinsdale High School
At Your Request, Praise the Lord, O Jerusalem, Purcell, Song of Destiny, Op. 54, Brahms, Faure Requiem, Op. 48
March 7, 1993 - Divine Infant
Joy to the World
December 11 & 12, 1992 - Bethlehem Center
Hooray for Hollywood
May 16, 1992 - Hinsdale High School
Hosanna, Excerpts from All Night Vigil, Rachmaninoff, Rutter Requiem
March 8, 1992 - St. John's Lutheran Church
Handel's Messiah and Do-it-yourself Messiah
December 6 & 7, 1991 - St. John of the Cross/St. Barbara's
Opera, Operetta, Et Cetera
May 18, 1991 - Hinsdale High School
War and Peace, Mass in Time of War, Haydn, Dona Nobis Pacem, Vaughn Williams
March 10, 1991 - St. Cletus
Joyeux Noel
December 7 & 8, 1990 - Bethlehem Center
The Best of Broadway
June 2, 1990 - Hinsdale High School
The Creation, Haydn
March 11, 1990 - Seventh-Day Adventist
Joy to the World
December 1 & 2, 1989 - St. John's Lutheran Church
Familiar Classics for Chorus and Orchestra
April 30, 1989 - Hinsdale High School
Tragic Overture, A German Requiem Op. 45, Brahms
February 25, 1989 - St. John of the Cross
Songs from Many Homelands
November 20, 1988 - Bethlehem Center
A Broadway Spectacular
May 1, 1988 - Hinsdale High School
King David
February 21, 1988 - Hinsdale High School
Chorus, Brass and Christmas
November 22, 1987 - St. Francis Xavier
Sounds of Spring
May 5, 1987 - Lyons South
Mendelssohn's Elijah
February 22, 1987 - St. Cletus
America Sings!
November 16, 1986 - Bethlehem Center
History of The Tower Chorale
In the spring of 1986, the idea of a community chorus was developed by Mr. James Winfield and the Western Springs Community Center Association (WSCCA). He approached Charles Neal, President of the WSCCA, to ask if the association would be open to the idea of starting a community chorus to rehearse in the Grand Avenue School. Mr. Neal was enthusiastic about the idea, with the hope that such a group could become the flagship organization of the new community center.
A publicity campaign was launched with around 35 people singing for 10 minutes at an association meeting to present the possibility of forming a chorus. At a second meeting, 80 people attended and enthusiasm ran high. The decision was made by the WSCCA to sponsor the proposed community chorus and that rehearsals would be held at the Grand Avenue School in Western Springs.
The chorus formed an executive committee and soon, thereafter, the choral group was branded “The Tower Chorale,” a name designated by Mr. Winfield and approved by the executive committee to signify something uplifting and to denote the water tower landmark in Western Springs. The Tower Chorale began their first official season in the fall of 1986 with a concert entitled “America Sings.”
Later in the 1990s, the WSCCA finished its mission of retiring the bonds that were initially issued in order to fund the donation of Grand Center to the village of Western Springs as a community center. The Tower Chorale then began the arduous process of becoming an independent non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization and was officially created May 27, 1999.
Over the years, the group has numbered 80-90 vocalists comprised of amateur and professional adult singers of all ages and backgrounds. The roster has included former members of the Chicago Symphony Chorus, the Grant Park Symphony Chorus, the Light Opera Works, the Chicago Opera Theater, the Apollo Chorus and various community theater and music organizations. The Tower Chorale has become recognized as one of the premier vocal musical groups in the area enjoyed by over 1,500 patrons each concert season.
The purpose of the group is to offer the opportunity for choral music enjoyment and growth in an environment of fellowship, by means of a variety of secular and sacred musical experiences, providing an entertainment and artistic resource for the community and satisfaction for the performers.
The vision of the Tower Chorale has been to grow in its popularity with audiences and singers in order to sustain itself for the foreseeable future; to be regarded by its audience as an enjoyable and inspiring group to hear and by its members as a rewarding group with which to sing; to foster and broaden community appreciation for, and involvement in, the performing arts.
The Tower Chorale performs at a variety of concert sites around the local western suburban areas and includes three highly diversified concerts per year: 1) holiday concerts in December – sacred and secular music for the season accompanied by an instrumental ensemble and with a guest musical group, usually young people; 2) a “formal” concert in March of a traditional oratorio or other such work or works with professional soloists, usually accompanied by full orchestra; and, 3) a concert in May, with music ranging from Broadway to Hollywood, folk songs and world music, the “Great American Song Book” to pop music and rock ‘n roll.
Carnegie Hall
In May 2009, the Tower Chorale was invited along with several other choral groups to perform at Carnegie Hall. Members present from the Tower Chorale were: J-nett Asa, Murnie Baker, Carol Blatter, Judy Concklin, Linda Dukes, Jean Harrison, and Dorothy Stephan. Singing at Carnegie Hall was an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Tower Chorale and other choral groups were originally invited to perform at Carnegie Hall in a New Music program featuring K. Lee Scott’s “Requiem.” Previously, the composer had come up from Alabama to hear The Tower Chorale perform his great work under the direction of Jim Winfield in March of 2008.
Unfortunately, due to various factors and a lack of awareness of Mr. Scott’s beautiful work, the program was changed to the Fauré “Requiem” paired with a better-known work, John Rutter’s “Magnificat.” Any disappointment quickly dissipated when it was announced that Rutter would be conducting his own work.
Rehearsals were conducted most of Saturday, Sunday and part of Monday before the actual performance on Memorial Monday evening. There was so much to learn about singing and vocal expression, as top-notch professionals made the approximately 160 amateur singers sound far better than their best. During rehearsals and also in performance, the impish and elfin John Rutter cleverly cultivated a deep understanding of the exciting and brilliantly simple freshness of his work.
J-nett Asa recalls, “Walking into the legendary concert hall for dress rehearsal was highly emotional for me. So many greats had shown their art to the world in the place where I stood. I coughed just to hear myself. An indescribably pristine and phenomenal sound sang back to me. I was surprised at the minimal décor of the Isaac Stern Auditorium, with its basic sophistication unchanged since 1891. This quiet elegance only added to the thrill when the lights went down on a nearly full house of about 2700 people (including members of my family). Apparently the audience was as enchanted as I was that night – we got a standing ovation! Rutter's "Magnificat" was truly magnificent!”
Italy
In March 2013, a number of Tower Chorale members joined the choir from St. Gregory the Great Church in Chicago for a 10-day pilgrimage to Italy. Patrick Godon, Director of Music for both groups, conducted. Tower Chorale members included Murnie Baker, Cynthia Blaszak, Marty & Kathy Daley, Roger Dore & Ellen Peirce, Linda Dukes, Paul Greene, Peter & Jean Harrison, John Kulaga, Larry & Mary LaPalio, Tom Licar, Diane Muss, John & Diana Myhre, Mary Beth Niziol, Betsy Spiering, Ellen Spiering, Jim Reid, Don Robbins, Byron & Nanette Shinn, Bill Somers, Bill & Barbara Stratton, Marvin Taylor, and Wayne VerGowe. The group was invited to be the Principal Choir to sing at the Vatican for the 500th anniversary of the founding of the Cappella Giulia, the Musical Chapel Choir of St. Peter’s. This trip coincided, incidentally, with the election of the new pope, Pope Francis, of whom the choir caught a glimpse in his first public appearance after the election. A high point was the tour of Pompeii where the group sang “Deep Peace” at an outdoor amphitheater in memory of all the souls that lost their lives in the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.
One of the choir masses was at the magnificent Cathedral of Naples, San Gennaro. The pastor’s name was Padre Papa - Father Pope. Perhaps an omen that a new pope was imminent! Just before the end of the mass, Padre Papa called for applause for the choir, maestro Peterson and maestro Godon to affirm their efforts. He ended by inviting the choir to sing a concert on their next visit to Napoli. He was visibly pleased and even posed in a picture with the group at the end. He was elaborate and generous with his praise of the choir’s singing -- so much so, that one of our basses said he was so choked up he couldn’t sing the beginning of the last song. Our tour manager, Rita Felici, would later tell Patrick that this priest was “open-arms” once he heard the group sing, but when they asked permission earlier if the choir could do a concert there, he had said no. He changed his tune, so this also became a conversion tour!
On their way to their first Italian concert at the Church of Gesu Nuovo in Naples, the bus driver suddenly turned up the radio and thousands of people were cheering. Rita came on the microphone and announced, “We have a new pope!” It was an amazing time to be in Italy. The choir dedicated their concert to the new pope and the whole evening was electric. It was raining, but a good number of Neapolitans attended the concert. The choir’s last two songs were dedicated to a young man who was killed in a car accident exactly one year earlier, adding another layer of meaning to the performance. Many of his family members were in attendance. The choir sounded wonderful from beginning to end. The crowd went wild after the spiritual, “My Soul’s Been Anchored,” giving a standing ovation.
The group also toured Sorrento, Capri, the Amalfi Coast, Montecassino (a 5th century abbey), Mentorella, and sang at numerous beautiful churches along the way. Once in Rome, the choir sang at the four major basilicas, all magnificent: St. Mary Major’s, St. John Lateran, St. Paul’s Outside the Walls, and culminating with the moving service at St. Peter’s Basilica celebrating the 500th anniversary of the Cappella Giulia.
Music Directors
Patrick Godon began his tenure at the Tower Chorale in July of 2011. Mr. Godon has held many top-level posts in music. Since 2003, he has been Director of Music at St. Gregory the Great Church in Chicago. In 2006, he founded the International Chamber Artists (ICA), a Chicago-based chamber music ensemble of classically trained musicians. He has performed with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) as second keyboardist and has done piano solo work for them. He also performs with the CSO’s MusicNOW ensemble, the Ars Viva Symphony Orchestra, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, and the Delaware Symphony Orchestra. He has performed for four Dame Myra Hess concerts at the Chicago Cultural Center, broadcast live on WFMT. Mr. Godon holds the degree of Master of Music in Piano Performance from DePaul University. Click here for a full biography.
James Winfield served as founder and director of the Tower Chorale for 25 seasons, retiring in June 2011. He brought a wealth of professional experience to the group. He sang in the Chicago Symphony Chorus for seven years and served as Associate Director of that ensemble for eight years under its founder, Margaret Hillis. He spent another eight years as music director of the West Suburban Symphony Orchestra of Hinsdale and has had several choral and instrumental arrangements published. He served as Music Director and Organist of the First Congregational Churches of Western Springs and Elmhurst for a total of 41 years, and, since 1999, in the same capacity at the Oak Park Temple B’nai Abraham Zion. Mr. Winfield holds music degrees from Indiana University and Northwestern University.
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