Choral Connections Weekend 2024 - Malcolm J. Merriweather
As we closed our 22nd season, Vocális welcomed one of America's great young choral conductors, Malcolm J. Merriweather. Director of the New York Philharmonic Chorus and Music Director of New York City’s, The Dessoff Choirs and Orchestra, Malcolm also serves as Professor of Music at Brooklyn College of the City University of New York. A native of Grand Island, NY, we were thrilled to welcome him home, and be inspired by his deeply moving conducting and teaching.
COMMUNITY SING WITH MALCOLM J. MERRIWEATHER
On Friday, May 31st, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Vocális hosted a Community Sing with Malcolm. The evening celebrated his many talents as he played the organ, performed art songs by Margaret Bonds and Florence Price, and led those present in a choral rehearsal and workshop. The community members and Vocális were also joined by the Grand Island HS Concert Choir, and the Buffalo Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts Chamber Choir.
COMMUNITY SING WITH MALCOLM J. MERRIWEATHER
It was wonderful to have around 150 in attendance. It was a joyful evening of community and singing, which ended as we collectively rehearsed the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, You'll Never Walk Alone. What a great message to end the night! Participants were also invited to return and sing the piece on the Sunday concert, alongside Vocális, and under Dr. Merriweather's direction.
Thank you, Malcolm!
CHORAL CONNECTIONS SEASON FINALE CONCERT - VOICES RAISED
Vocális closed our 22nd season with a celebration of the vast array of choral voices, presenting exciting works by historically marginalized composers. Guest Conductor Malcolm Merriweather led Vocális and soloists in a performance of Margaret Bond’s powerful piece, Credo. The concert program also included works by Rosephanye Powell, Samuel Coleridge Taylor, Nathaniel Dett, Adolphus Hailstork, and Shavon Lloyd. With the addition of the Grand Island HS Concert Choir, and the Buffalo Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts Chamber Choir, it was an emotional and powerful experience for all!
FUNDING PARTNERS
Vocális Chamber Choir is a 501(c)3 non-profit arts organization. Gifts in support of our mission are greatly appreciated and tax deductible.
The Vocális Chamber Choir, a select ensemble of dedicated professionals based in Western New York, is committed to performing great a cappella music from all eras, and to cultivating an awareness of the art of choral singing. We strive to inspire, educate, and enlighten our audiences through an intimate and moving concert experience.
Vocális Chamber Choir is supported in part with cultural funding from the Cullen Foundation and the New York State Council on the Arts. Thanks to County Executive Mark Poloncarz, Governor Kathy Hochul, and the Erie County and New York State Legislatures for their continued support.
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Vocális Chamber Choir
401 McKinley Parkway
Buffalo, NY 14220
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