Uplifting new choral works from living composers will be the theme as Monadnock Chorus presents “Hope Illuminated” Saturday, Dec. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 11 at the Peterborough Town House.
Both concerts start at 4 p.m.
The music includes recently created pieces by Eric Whitacre, Elaine Hagenberg and Jake Runestad, among others. The chorus will be accompanied by a 12-piece professional orchestra. Tickets are $25 (free for students) and can be purchased at monadnockchorus.org.
This will be Artistic Director Morgan Bothwell’s first time leading the chorus. He was named as artistic director in August and has been working with the more than 65 singers in the group throughout the fall. Bothwell teaches and conducts at both Keene State University and Franklin Pierce University.
“My family has lived in Keene for many years and I have long been a fan of the Monadnock Chorus,” Bothwell stated. “The chorus brings so much to the region – high-quality music and culture, of course, but also a connection with other lovers of wonderful music-making.”
Repertoire for the December concerts reflects Bothwell’s experience with living composers of choral music.
“Contemporary American composers are creating some incredibly exciting choral music,” he stated. “We will be presenting a brand-new work by Elaine Hagenberg. It’s all about light and illumination and peace— a wonderful reflection for this time of year.”
Eric Whitacre’s “Alleluia” is also on the program.
“Whitacre’s impact on the choral landscape has shaped the way that choral music is made and consumed in our world today,” Bothwell stated. “We hope people will join us for ‘Hope Illuminated’ and ring in the holiday season with the light and life that this music brings.”
For more than 60 years, Monadnock Chorus has provided singers and audiences throughout the region opportunities to explore and enjoy choral music. Chorus participation is open to all singers regardless of experience, with new members welcomed in January and September.
For information about the December concerts or about joining the chorus, visit www.monadnockchorus.org.