On Saturday, March 25, 2023 at 7:30 pm at Bloomington’s Christ Community Church, three of the area’s premier choral ensembles will join forces to present “The Promise of Living: A Concert of Hope and Resilience.” The evening event will be co-hosted by guest artists Sylvia McNair and Marietta Simpson, and will feature the IU African American Choral Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Raymond Wise; Voces Novae, led by Susan Swaney, Artistic Director; and the Bloomington Chamber Singers, under the direction of Gerald Sousa.
The concert will pay tribute to the strength of the human spirit, reminding us that even in these challenging times there is promise, hope, and resilience. The three ensembles will offer selections drawn from a wide and rich variety of styles, showcasing the power of text and music to uplift and inspire. Included on the program will be works by local composers Cindy Kallet, Dominick DiOrio, and the premiere of Don Freund’s “Dr. King’s Garment of Destiny.” The evening will include group singing led by Dr. Wise that will invite audience participation. Sylvia McNair and Marietta Simpson will offer readings drawn from world cultures.
The evening of the concert, the Lincoln Street Boys and Girls Club of Bloomington will present an art exhibit in the lobby of the church entitled “The Promise of Living.” Students from the Club will have been involved in listening to the Aaron Copland composition for which this concert is named, and their artistic impressions of that piece will form the basis for their exhibit.
The event has been generously underwritten and is free and open to the public. However, space is limited, so tickets will need to be reserved in advance. They will be available on this website soon. Any remaining tickets will be available at the door the evening of the concert.
Location: Christ Community Church (503 S. High Street, Bloomington, IN)
Date: Saturday, March 25, 7:30 pm
Admission: Free but ticketed. Reserve tickets/livestream link
