Commemoration of the Civil WarBel Canto Chorus’ 80th anniversary season, which coincides with the sesquicentennial of the beginning of the American Civil War, features bluegrass music, spirituals, and commemorative compositions. Join the Bel Canto Chorus singers as they reflect on one of the nation's most difficult times through the soothing but unblinking eye of music. The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass Sunday, October 10, 2010, 3:00 PM Humphrey Scottish Rite Masonic Center 790 N Van Buren St, Milwaukee 53202 The plaintive sounds of Appalachia, heard in folksongs and spirituals such as Down by the Riverside, help set the stage for the approaching Civil War conflict. Evoking the echoes of angry abolitionists and heated secessionists, Carol Barnett’s Bluegrass Mass reflects the troubled times and brings gentle joy and comfort. Featuring Bel Canto Chorus, Bel Canto Boy Choir, and bluegrass band Above the Town. Pre-concert exhibition, Masonic Center Lobby, 2:00-2:55 PM See the faces of the Civil War through a special portrait photography display from the Civil War Museum, and learn the personal stories of the past from reenactors in period dress. Post-concert reception, Schroeder Lounge at the Masonic Center, 5:00-6:00 PM Join the Bel Canto family in celebrating its 80th anniversary season! Christmas in the Basilica Saturday, December 4, 2010, 7:30 PM Sunday, December 5, 2010, 3:00 PM Basilica of St. Josaphat 2333 S Sixth St, Milwaukee 53215 Traditional beloved carols and hymns, including O Come, All Ye Faithful, Silent Night, Biebl’s Ave Maria and Rutter’s Shepherd’s Pipe Carol, performed in the breathtaking Basilica, make for the perfect beginning to every family’s holiday season. Featuring Bel Canto Chorus, Bel Canto Boy Choir, and special guests the Milwaukee Handbell Ensemble. Remembrance: Legacy of the Civil War Sunday, March 13, 2011, 3:00 PM Christ King Parish 2604 N Swan Blvd, Wauwatosa 53226 Joseph Baber’s heart-wrenching An American Requiem, Op. 80, anchors this commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the Civil War. Hear the legacy of our country’s pain in letters home, and in poetry and speeches of the times, as it was torn apart in the epic struggle between North and South. Featuring Bel Canto Chorus and special guests the Milwaukee Chamber Orchestra. Pre-concert demonstration, Gathering Space at Christ King Parish, 2:00-2:55 PM Learn about—and try for yourself—the unique dances of the Civil War era. Presented by the Civil War Museum and the West Side Soldiers Aid Society. Give Us Peace Saturday, May 21, 2011, 7:30 PM Oconomowoc Arts Center 641 E Forest St, Oconomowoc 53066 Experience the fiery oratory of Frederick Douglass with Kirke Mechem’s Songs of the Slave, and the poignant poetry of Walt Whitman through Ralph Vaughan Williams’s Dona nobis pacem, as these works invite us to reflect on the Civil War and its legacy. Featuring Bel Canto Chorus in collaboration with the Waukesha Choral Union, and special guests the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra (Edo de Waart, Music Director). Pre-concert activities, Oconomowoc Arts Center grounds and lobby, 6:00-7:15 PM Learn the stories of the Civil War and its lasting impact on American history. Presented by the Civil War Museum, the Cushing’s Battery reenactment unit, and students of the Oconomowoc Area School District. |
