There is something very unique about experiencing a live choir concert. Live performances in general are riveting experiences, but there is a certain magic in hearing voices harmonize together eloquently.
The sound of a choir can move an audience in powerful ways. Think of how the choral themes in blockbuster films like “The Lord of The Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” or “Harry Potter” have helped make powerful scenes come to life by expressing music through the union of voices.
On Oct. 25, Eastern Michigan University’s choirs will each give their debut performances under the new direction of Dr. Brandon Johnson. The concert will take place in Pease Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free for everyone, and the event can earn you LBC credit.
The choirs featured this semester have had a face-lift; there will be an all women’s choir featuring both non-music majors and musicians of EMU, an all men’s choir and a select chamber singers’ ensemble made up of music majors.
The styles of music will range from a cappella Baroque pieces to African holiday celebration songs.
“I really want this performance to appeal to the 21st Century audience,” Dr. Johnson explained to the Chamber Singers during rehearsal last week. “You have something special, as vocalists, to offer.”
As for students who are part of the ensembles, many upperclassmen have expressed enthusiasm for the leadership of the new director.
“Dr. J. is ready to move forward fast,” said sophomore Rebecca Meyers, a section leader in the Chamber Choir. “Plus, he’s enthusiastic on creating a positive learning environment.”
And none of these brand-new choirs can get that chance if fellow peers and faculty aren’t in Pease Auditorium at 7:30 pm on Saturday to hear them in their debut performance.
For more information about upcoming choral and music events Eastern Michigan’s music department has to offer, visit the music events page at emich.edu/musicdance/events.
