VocalEssence Fall Concerts Program Book 2019-20

Conversations

Hip-Hop

Joy

Crafts

Music

Nordic Family Love Finland

Composers

Beauty

Happy

American Violin

Classical

Carols

Norway

Crafts

Choir

New

Intimate

Classical

Jo

Family

Soul Women Christmas Mexican Love Finla Divine Divine Sing Gospel Jazz Moana Spirituals Orchestra S WITNESS Service

Lullabies

Sing-along

Sweden

omposers

American

uty

Violin

Classical Intimate

Hip-Hop

Carols

Service

Norway Finland

Composers

Choir

Christmas

Beauty

Hip-Hop

Crafts

Choir

ew

exican

Service

Jazz

op

Intimate

Sing-along

Spirituals

Conversations

mily

Music

Nordic

g

pirituals

Composers

Women

Violin

Classical

Happy

Soul Sing

Orchestra Moana

American

Intimate

American

Classical DIVINE LIGHT

New

Choir

New Mexican

Lullabies

Orchestra

Carols

Norway

Christmas

Moana

Carols

Hip-Hop

Choir

Crafts

FALL Violin CONCERTS Beauty Norway

Happy

Service

Jazz

WITNESS

Conversa

Joy

Mu

Nordic Family WHAT A MIGHTY GOD, Women Christmas Love Finland Mexican A VocalEssence WITNESS Concert Jazz Lullabies Divine Gospel Sing-along WELCOME Moana Orchestra CHRISTMAS

Soul ine Sing Finland

Lullabies

Composers

Beauty

Music

Family Nordic Love Finland

Gospel

Joy

Conversations

Joy

Divine

ana Sweden

Violin

Classical

American

{2019-2020 SEASON}

New

orway

Ame

New

Orchestra

Carols

Spirituals

Composers

Lullabies

can

Sing-along

WITNESS

Intimate

Service

Sweden

So Sing

VOCALESSENCE 1900 Nicollet Avenue Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403 612-547-1451 vocalessence.org

VocalEssence is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

CONTENTS CONCERT: Divine Light. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 BEHIND THE MUSIC: A Silence Haunts Me. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 LEARNING AND ENGAGEMENT SPOTLIGHT: VocalEssence Vintage Voices . . . . 11

facebook.com/vocalessence twitter.com/vocalessencemn linkedin.com/company/vocalessence youtube.com/vocalessence instagram.com/vocalessencemn

CONCERT: What a Mighty God, A VocalEssence WITNESS Concert. . . . . . . . . . . 15 BEHIND THE MUSIC: Mass: A Celebration of Love and Joy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 LEARNING AND ENGAGEMENT SPOTLIGHT: VocalEssence Singers Of This Age. . . 22 FAMILY SERIES SPOTLIGHT: The Roeger Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

PLEASE NOTE: • Concerts will be recorded for possible broadcast—please help us keep the performance space quiet. Take a moment now to check that all cell phones, paging devices, wristwatch alarms, and the like are turned off before the concert begins. Thank you.

• Out of respect for the performers and the music creators, please refrain from using cameras or other recording devices during the performance.

• VocalEssence documents its concerts and events through audio and video. As a ticket holder to this event, you consent to use your likeness, without compensation, in any or all media. Please contact info@vocalessence.org with questions.

CONCERT: Welcome Christmas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 BEHIND THE MUSIC: Kim André Arnesen’s Nordic Christmas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 ABOUT VOCALESSENCE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 DONOR SPOTLIGHT: Dave & Linda Mona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 THANK YOU, VOCALESSENCE DONORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

BOARD OF DIRECTORS David L. Mona President

• Student and group discounts are available for most VocalEssence concerts. Half-price tickets are available to students (ages 6-18 and college) with a student ID. Groups of 10 or more save 15% on tickets.

Fred Moore Vice-President

• Children of all ages are welcome at all of our Family Series events. Visit www.vocalessence. org/welcomefamily for more information and a list of events. Tickets for children ages 0-17 are free.

Timothy Takach Secretary

• Accessible seating is available at all of our concert venues. However, some of our facilities do not have elevator access to the balcony level.

Please make your needs known when you order tickets.

• You may return VocalEssence single concert tickets for resale up to 48 hours prior to a performance. No refunds or exchanges can be given; however, you will be sent a receipt for your tax-deductible contribution. (VocalEssence subscribers may call 612-371-5642 to request free ticket exchanges and lost ticket replacement.)

• Latecomers will be seated at appropriate pauses in the concert according to the conductor’s wishes. Please plan plenty of time for locating the concert venue and parking. Or, better yet, allow an extra hour and join us for Concert Conversations with the composers and artists, held one hour before some concerts.

Jacob Wolkowitz Treasurer

Mary Ann Aufderheide Traci V. Bransford Philip Brunelle Cassidy McCrae Burns Margaret Chutich Martha Driessen Anders Eckman Ann Farrell Daniel Fernelius Wayne Gisslen Carolina Gustafson R.J. Heckman Samuel Ingram Joseph Kalkman Paul McDonough David Myers Nancy F. Nelson Richard Neuner Jim Odland Joanne Reeck Don Shelby Jennifer Vickerman Dorene Wernke

LIFETIME DIRECTORS Ann Barkelew Ann Buran Art Kaemmer Nikki Lewis Mike McCarthy

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

HONORARY DIRECTORS Dominick Argento* William Bolcom Dave Brubeck* Aaron Copland* Håkan Hagegård Louise Heffelfinger* Eskil Hemberg* Betty Hulings* Sigrid Johnson James Earl Jones Garrison Keillor Donald Mitchell* Helmuth Rilling John Rutter Peter Schickele Dr. André J. Thomas Eric Whitacre

Rhiannon Fiskradatz Operations Manager for VocalEssence Singers Of This Age

Mary Ann Aufderheide Executive Director Jeff Bina Director of Finance and Operations

Robert Graham Program Manager for Learning and Engagement | Conductor, Vintage Voices Laura Holst Development and Marketing Associate Ethan Johnson Production Manager and Artistic Assistant Amanda Timmer Operations Manager for Learning and Engagement

*In remembrance

Katrina Wallmeyer Director of Development and Communications

ARTISTIC STAFF Philip Brunelle Artistic Director

G. Phillip Shoultz, III Associate Conductor | Director of Learning and Engagement

Elissa Weller Institutional Giving and Events Manager

Mary Jo Gothmann Accompanist

2019-2020 Season

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VOCALESSENCE CONCERT SERIES CONCERTS SPRING 2020 CALENDAR DEEP ROOTS, a VocalEssence WITNESS Concert 30 Years of celebrating African American voices through music Sunday, February 23, 2020 from 4:30-6:30 PM Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis Join us as we honor the deep musical roots from which VocalEssence WITNESS sprang 30 years ago. Guiding you on the journey through spirituals, jazz, gospel, and soul will be homegrown artists—singers, actors, dancers—including two-time Billboard Gospel chart-topper Jovonta Patton and a special 30th Anniversary Community Choir. Continuing our commitment to include new voices on stage, the concert will include a world premiere arrangement of the spiritual Witness by Joel Thompson.

THE MENDELSSOHNS Music of Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn Saturday, April 4, 2020 from 8-10 PM Benson Great Hall, Bethel University, Arden Hills Musical talent often runs in families, and one of history’s most talented set of siblings were the Mendelssohns—Felix and Fanny.

Connected by their extraordinary gifts and love for music, they developed a close relationship that endured from birth to death.

Hear their music side-by-side in this celebration of Felix and Fanny’s marvelous musical creations.

Tickets: vocalessence.org or 612-371-5656 Page 4

2019-2020 Season

2019-2020 SEASON

SPECIAL THANKS Kenneth Baird Ita Beausang Ann Buran Center for Irish Music Harry Chalmiers Kieran Folliard Irish Music and Dance Association Irish Network MN Katie Rowan Jake Runestad

DIVINE LIGHT Sunday, October 13, 2019 at 4 & 7 PM Summit Center 1524 Summit Ave Saint Paul, MN 55105 VocalEssence Ensemble Singers Ruggero Allifranchini, violin Mary Jo Gothmann, piano Philip Brunelle, conductor

2019-2020 SEASON SPONSORS

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

2019-2020 Season

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ARTIST STATEMENT

THE PROGRAM

Performing a concert in a new space is always a thrill—what music to perform in a new acoustic that will enhance the singing and provide an interesting new experience for the listener? Several of the pieces on Divine Light are works I have long wanted to perform and others I have come to know only recently. Ligeti’s Lux Aeterna is one of the choral masterpieces of our time and the acoustic of Summit Center is a wonderful match for it. Many of you will remember this music as being part of the film score 2001: A Space Odyssey. It is a sonic block-buster and a marvelous challenge for professional singers!

VocalEssence Ensemble Singers

Gabriel Fauré’s Pavane is a well-known orchestral work but I suspect this will be a first hearing for most everyone in its original form for chorus and piano…with text!

Speaking of text, Psalm 151 will be a delight since the Bible has only 150 psalms! I have known John Høybye since 2006 when we served together planning the World Choral Symposium in Copenhagen and I got to know his music. John (80 this year) has a delightful sense of humor which comes through marvelously in this work featuring one of the Twin Cities’ most beloved violinists and personalities, Ruggero Allifranchini.

Jake Runestad’s music has been featured on VocalEssence concerts before and when I heard his newest composition, A Silence Haunts Me which focuses on Beethoven (and this being the Beethoven bicentenary), I felt that such a very moving work was appropriate for this concert because Mary Jo Gothmann is such an expressive pianist!

Lastly, I am always happy to make the discovery of a composer—this time it is Ina Boyle, whose music was composed decades ago but is only now coming to light.

Connections are so important and for me it was through Kenneth Baird, an English colleague, that I was put in touch with Katie Rowan, and through her the music of this Irish composer. Boyle’s lovely music is a joy to sing, and I know you will be delighted to discover such beautiful sounds.

Welcome to the Summit Center as you revel in the beauty of the human voice.

Philip Brunelle, Artistic Director and Founder

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2019-2020 Season

*Psalm 151 John Høybye

Ruggero Allifranchini, violin (2018) I. What a great blast II. Wave upon wave III. Psalm upon psalm *Colores Pacis (The Colors of Peace) John August Pamintuan (2017) Jennifer Bevington, Natalia Romero Arbelaez, Erin Smith Peters, soloists

A Silence Haunts Me Jake Runestad

(2018) Lux Aeterna (Eternal Light)

György Ligeti (1966)

*Gaelic Hymns

I. Jesu, Thou Son of Mary II. The Guardian Angel

Patty Kramer, soloist III. The Light’ner of the Stars IV. The Soul Leading (A Death Blessing) V. Marita Link, soloist VI. Soul Peace (A Death Blessing) VII. Judith McClain Melander, soloist Pavane

Ina Boyle (1924)

Gabriel Fauré (1887)

*U.S. Premiere

WELCOME CHRISTMAS Nordic and American carols to get you in the Christmas spirit FOUR PERFORMANCES December 7, 8, 13, and 15, 2019 Apple Valley, Minneapolis, Roseville

Tickets: $20-$40

vocalessence.org | 612-371-5656

TEXTS PSALM 151

John Høybye

What a great blast from the start, blowing divine love apart, watching bits fly to their stations, spirited by gravitations!

Wave upon wave of Big Bang into the universe sang; God knew how it would begin, picked up his old violin.

Tuned it to supreme effect, lifted his bow to connect, swiftly the Godhead unfurled dance and love into the world.

COLORES PACIS

John August Pamintuan Sung in Latin The colors of peace, I see Are painted from the colors of life There is blue, which means water There is silver, which means metal There is yellow, which means the earth There is red, which means fire There is green, which means wood They go around in a circle And when we put all these together There is white, which means There is no color that separates us all —John August Pamintuan,

Translated by Angela Kliatchko

Psalm upon psalm to his praise David and others would raise, touched by the strings from above, bowing back solos of love.

—Edward Broadbridge

A SILENCE HAUNTS ME Jake Runestad

—after Beethoven’s Heiligenstadt Testament, by Todd Boss

2019-2020 Season

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LUX AETERNA

György Ligeti Sung in Latin May light eternal shine upon them, O Lord, with Thy saints forever,

for Thou art kind.

Eternal rest give to them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine

upon them.

—Roman Catholic Requiem Mass, Translated by Philip Brunelle

GAELIC HYMNS Ina Boyle I. Jesu, Thou Son of Mary Jesu, Thou Son of Mary, have mercy upon us. Amen.

Jesu, Thou Son of Mary, make peace with us. Amen.

With us and for us Where we shall longest be, Be about the morning of our course, Be about the closing of our life Be at the dawning of our life And at the darkening of our day.

Be for us and with us, Merciful God of all.

Consecreate us, condition and lot, Thou King of kings, Thou God of all.

Consecrate us heart and body, Thou King of kings, Thou God of all.

Each heart and body Each day to Thyself, Each night accordingly Thou King of kings, Thou God of all.

Amen.

II. The Guardian Angel Thou angel of God, who hast charge of me From the dear Father of mercifulness, The shepherding king of the fold of the saints To make round about me this night; Be thou a bright flame before me, Be thou a guiding star above me, Be thou a smooth path below me, And be a kindly shepherd behind me, Today, tonight, and for ever.

I am tired and I am a stranger, Lead thou me to the land of angels, For me it is time to go home To the court of Christ, to the peace of heaven.

III. The Light’ner of the Stars Behold the Light’ner of the stars On the crests of the clouds, And the choralists of the sky Lauding Him.

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2019-2020 Season

Coming down with acclaim From the Father above, Harp and lyre of song Sounding to Him. Christ, Thou refuge of my love, Why should not I raise Thy fame!

Angels and saints melodious Singing to Thee.

Son of the Mary of the graces Of exceeding white purity of beauty, Joy were it to me To be in the fields of Thy riches.

Oh Christ, my beloved Oh Christ of the Holy Blood, By day and by night I praise Thee.

IV. The Soul-Leading (A Death Blessing) Be this soul on Thine arm, O Christ, Thou the King, of the city of Heaven.

Since Thou, O Christ, it was who brought’st this soul.

Be its peace on Thine own keeping. Amen.

And may the strong Michael, high King of the angels, Be preparing the path before this soul. Amen.

Oh, strong Michael in peace with thee, soul.

And preparing for thee the way to the Kingdom of the Son of God. Amen, Amen.

V. Soul Peace (A Death Blessing) Since Thou, Christ, it was Who didst buy the soul At the time of yielding the life, At the time of pouring the sweat, At the time of offering the clay, At the time of shedding the blood, At the time of balancing the beam, At the time of severing the breath, At the time of delivering the judgment, Since Thou, Christ, it was who didst buy the soul Be its peace upon Thine own ingath’ring, Jesus Christ, Son of gentle Mary, And may Michael, white, kindly, High king of the holy angels, Take possession of the beloved soul And shield it home to the Three of surpassing love.

—Translated by A. Carmichael

PAVANE

Gabriel Fauré

Sung in French It is Lindor! It is Tircis! And it is all of our victors!

It is Myrtille! It is Lydé! The queens of our hearts How they are provocative! How they are always proud!

How they dare rule over our fates and our days!

Be careful! Observe the step!

Oh mortal insult! The cadence quickens And the fall more certain! We will put them in their place!

We will soon be their lackeys!

How they are ugly! Sweet little face!

How they are mad! (With elegant grace!)

And it is always the same, and so forever!

We love! We hate! We curse our loves!

Farewell Myrtille! Églé! Chloé! Mocking demons!

Farewell, and good day to the tyrants of our hearts!

And good day!

—Robert de Montesquiou, Translated by Ethan Johnson

with guest conductor Dr. Michael McGaghie

Featuring Requiem • Herbert Howells Come to the Woods • Jake Runestad The Stillness of Music • Elaine Hagenberg Saturday, November 16, 7:30 pm

Mairs Concert Hall, Macalester College • St. Paul

Sunday, November 17, 4:00 pm

Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd • Mpls.

Tickets • singersinaccord.org • 612-597-5483

2019-2020 Season

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BEHIND THE MUSIC: A Silence Haunts Me

Jake Runestad

In 2017, Jake Runestad travelled to Vienna and found himself in the Haus der Musik Museum in Vienna, where he encountered a facsimile of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Heiligenstadt Testament. It was the first time he had read the famous text, which is almost equal parts medical history (including Beethoven’s first admission to his brothers that he was going deaf ), last will and testament, suicide note, letter of forgiveness, and prayer of hope. Runestad was flabbergasted and found himself thinking about Beethoven, about loss, and about the tragedy of one of the greatest musicians of all time losing his hearing.

Beethoven put it this way, “Ah, how could I possibly admit an infirmity in the one sense which ought to be more perfect in me than others, a sense which I once possessed in the highest perfection, a perfection such as few in my profession enjoy or ever have enjoyed.”

When the American Choral Directors Association offered the Raymond C. Brock Commission to Runestad for the 2019 National Conference, he took many months to settle on a topic, finally deciding on setting Beethoven’s words.

“What an absolutely devastating yet inspiring account of the power of the human spirit. In the moment of his loss—when he wrote the Heiligenstadt Testament—he had no idea how profound his legacy would be.” Because of the length of the letter, a verbatim setting was impractical; Runestad once again turned to his friend and frequent collaborator, Todd Boss, to help. Boss’s poem, entitled A Silence Haunts Me– After Beethoven’s Heiligenstadt Testament creates a scena—a monologue in Beethoven’s voice for choir. The poem is both familiar and intimate; Boss has taken the fundamentals of Beethoven’s letter and spun it into a libretto that places the reader/listener into the same small, rented room as one of the most towering figures of the Romantic Era.

“What an absolutely devastating yet inspiring account of the power of the human spirit. In the moment of his loss—when he wrote the Heiligenstadt Testament—he had no idea how profound his legacy would be.”

A Silence Haunts Me sounds more like a self-contained monologue from an opera than a traditional choral piece. Runestad sets the poetry with an intense, emotional directness and uses some of Beethoven’s own musical ideas to provide context. Stitched into the work are hints at familiar themes from the Moonlight Sonata, the 3rd, 6th, and 9th Symphonies, and Creatures of Prometheus, but they are, in Runestad’s words, “filtered through a hazy, frustrated, and defeated state of being.” In wrestling with Beethoven, with legacy, and with loss, Runestad has written a score where the poetry creates the form, where the text drives the rhythm, where the melody supports the emotional content, and where the natural sounding vocal lines, arresting harmony, and idiomatic accompaniment—in this case, piano in honor of Beethoven—come together to offer the audience an original, engaging, thoughtful, and passionate work of choral art.

Edited from the program note by Dr. Jonathan Talberg

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2019-2020 Season

LEARNING AND ENGAGEMENT SPOTLIGHT VocalEssence Vintage Voices: Wilmetia Henderson VocalEssence builds community and transforms lives through singing together.

When it comes to the value of group singing for older adults, research makes a strong case: choir participation improves psychological and social well-being, and helps with the management of both mental and physical health issues.

To build Vintage Voices, its program for older adults, VocalEssence established choirs at senior centers and assisted living communities. Holding the 12-week series of rehearsals at these convenient locations helped Vintage Voices succeed at integrating artistic practices into the lives of its older singers. When each choir celebrates the end of the Vintage Voices season with a public performance, right onsite, friends know exactly where to find them.

Wilmetia Henderson is a member of the Sabathani Vintage Voices choir at Sabathani Senior Center. “I sing in the church choir at St. Peter’s AME, too, just down the street from Sabathani,” she said. “I love the gospel music we sing in church, but at the time the Vintage Voices program started, I was also interested in learning other types of songs, and Vintage Voices offered that variety.”

Henderson joined the choir, led by conductor Rob Graham and pianist John Jensen, in its first year.

“Rob taught us new things: he gets us moving with little stretching exercises and voice warm-ups at the beginning of rehearsals, and teaches us how to breathe. I like that, because it helps loosen up the voice, and it makes me a stronger singer with my church choir as well.”

“Everybody was a little shy at first, singing very quietly,” Henderson remembers. “But it didn’t take very long for us to start talking about our families and children. We became friends. Now there’s a wonderful camaraderie. It’s a diverse group of people, and we’ve come from different ways of life, but we seem to connect. And now we sing louder, because we hold each other up—we’re always trying to get the notes right by listening to each other!”

“My favorite memory is from right after our first concert,” said Henderson. “We were a little bit shy, but everyone was talking about how well we did, and we were just happy and smiling and hugging each other, because we got through it together and did okay! Rob, our conductor, was well pleased. Also, let us not forget our dynamic pianist, John Jensen, whose expertise is mind boggling. The two together make Vintage Voices as great as it is!”

“As a senior, it’s such a good thing to do,” said Henderson, “because you’re using your memory. You’re learning songs and remembering the notes, and that exercises your brain. I’m 69 and I find myself forgetting things, but with learning these songs, I see I’m okay, because I see that I CAN learn.” After five years in the choir, Henderson says, “It still gives me so much pleasure to go to rehearsals and sing with everyone. It’s added more joy to my life.”

“It still gives me so much pleasure to go to rehearsals and sing with everyone. It’s added more joy to my life.”

–Wilmetia, Sabathni

Vintage Voices Singer

2019-2020 Season

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BIOGRAPHIES Co-concertmaster of the SPCO, Ruggero Allifranchini was born into a musical household in Milan, Italy, and was raised on a diverse musical diet ranging from Beethoven to John Coltrane. As a chamber musician of diverse repertoire and styles, he is a member of Accordo, a founding member of the Borromeo Quartet and Nobilis piano trio with whom he toured around the world.

He has been a guest artist of the Chamber Music Societies of Boston and Lincoln Center, as well as chamber music festivals in Seattle, Vancouver, and El Paso. He is the Concertmaster of the Mostly Mozart Festival Orchestra in New York. Allifranchini graduated from the Curtis Institute of Music where he studied with Szymon Goldberg. He performs on a Samuel Zygmuntowicz violin made in 2018 in Brooklyn. His favorite activity/hobby/love besides music is cooking.

Allifranchini says that classical music is important to him because “since a very young age it has been the best way for me to express and communicate the deepest emotions and ideas I felt inside.

Having over 400 years of music at our disposal, I’ve always found it hard to label it as ‘classical’ music.”

Ina Boyle (1889-1967) lived all her life in the family home in Enniskerry, Ireland. She studied composition in Dublin and crossed the Irish Sea for lessons with Ralph Vaughan Williams in 1923. Unfortunately, the outbreak of the Second World War ended her travels as well as any musical opportunities in London. Despite this, she continued to compose throughout her life.

Boyle composed 16 Gaelic Hymns coming from the Hebrides and Western Highlands of Scotland. The five performed today were published in 1930. Although there have been performances in England and Ireland these performances mark the U.S. premiere.

VOCALESSENCE ENSEMBLE SINGERS David A. Beccue, Tenor, began singing with VocalEssence in 2019.

David’s favorite choral piece is “Ubi Caritas” by Guy Forbes.

Jennifer Bevington, Soprano, has sung with VocalEssence for seven years. Jennifer’s favorite choral piece is “Our Father” by Alexander Gretchaninoff.

Ben Brunnette, Tenor, began singing with VocalEssence in 2019.

Ben’s favorite choral piece is “Fürchte dich nicht” BWV 228 by Johann Sebastian Bach.

Josh Conroy, Bass, has sung with VocalEssence for four years. Josh’s favorite choral piece is “O Day Full of Grace” by F. Melius Christiansen.

Jimmy Deignan, Bass, began singing with VocalEssence in 2019.

Jimmy’s favorite choral piece is “Song for Athene” by John Tavener.

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2019-2020 Season

Ben Dyleuth, Bass, has sung with VocalEssence for one year. Ben’s favorite choral piece is “My Soul’s Been Anchored in the Lord” by Moses Hogan.

Anders Eckman, Tenor, has sung with VocalEssence for twelve years. Anders’s favorite choral piece is “Os Justi” by Anton Bruckner.

Joseph Ellickson, Bass, has sung with VocalEssence for seven years. Joseph’s favorite choral piece is “An Elm We Lost” by David Gompper.

Anna George Meek, Alto, has sung with VocalEssence for thirteen years. Anna’s favorite choral pieces are “Walden” by Dominick Argento and Rachmaninoff’s Vespers.

David Gindra, Bass, has sung with VocalEssence for one year.

David’s favorite choral piece is “Fürchte dich nicht” BWV 228 by Johann Sebastian Bach.

Robert J. Graham, Tenor, has sung with VocalEssence for seven years. Robert’s favorite choral piece is “O Magnum Mysterium” by Morten Lauridsen.

Robin Joy Helgen, Alto, has sung with VocalEssence for nine years. Robin’s favorite choral piece is “Ruht whol, ihr heiligen Gebeine” final chorus from St. John Passion by Johann Sebastian Bach.

Chloe Johnson, Soprano, has sung with VocalEssence for one year. Chloe’s favorite choral piece is “Salvation is Created” by Pavel Chesnokov.

JoAnna Johnson, Soprano, has sung with VocalEssence for eight years. JoAnna’s favorite choral piece is “Sicut Cervus” by Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina.

Patty Kramer, Alto, began singing with VocalEssence in 2019.

Patty’s favorite choral piece is “We Shall Overcome” arranged by Tom Trenney.

Erik Krohg, Bass, has sung with VocalEssence for three years.

Erik’s favorite choral piece is “Path of Miracles” by Joby Talbot.

Myrtle Lemon, Soprano, has sung with VocalEssence for one year. Myrtle’s favorite choral piece is “Figure humaine” by Francis Poulenc.

Marita J. Link, Alto, has sung with VocalEssence for twenty years.

Marita’s favorite choral piece is “Lobet den Herrn, alle Heiden” by Johann Sebastian Bach.

Meghan Lowe, Soprano, has sung with VocalEssence for two years. Meghan’s favorite choral piece is “My Soul’s Been Anchored in the Lord” by Moses Hogan.

Nicholas Mattsson, Tenor, has sung with VocalEssence for eleven years. Nicholas’s favorite choral piece is “Walden Pond” by Dominick Argento.

Judith McClain Melander, Alto, has sung with VocalEssence for six years.

Judith’s favorite choral piece is “Hymnody of Earth” by Malcolm Dalglish.

Margaret Sabin, Soprano, has sung with VocalEssence for twenty years. Margaret’s favorite choral piece is “Pilgrim’s Hymn”

by Stephen Paulus.

Sadie Nelson, Alto, has sung with VocalEssence for four years. Sadie’s favorite choral piece is “Hymn to St. Cecilia” by Benjamin Britten.

Dr. Michael P. Schmidt, Bass, has sung with VocalEssence for five years. Michael’s favorite choral pieces are John Rutter’s Requiem as well as “Agnus Dei” by Samuel Barber.

William Pederson, Tenor, has sung with VocalEssence for thirteen years. William’s favorite choral piece is “Three Kings” by Healey Willan.

Kristina Rodel Sorum, Alto, has sung with VocalEssence for three years.

Kristina’s favorite choral piece is “Moon Goddess” by Jocelyn Hagen.

Natalia Romero Arbelaez, Soprano, has sung with VocalEssence for one year.

Natalia’s favorite choral piece is La Pasión según San Marcos by Osvaldo Golijov.

Mari Scott, Soprano, has sung with VocalEssence for eleven years. Mari’s favorite choral piece is “The Road Home”

by Stephen Paulus.

Erin Smith Peters, Alto, has sung with VocalEssence for five years. Erin’s favorite choral piece is “Fern Hill” by John Corigliano.

VocalEssence Ensemble Singers.

Photo © Bruce Silcox

2019-2020 Season

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CELEBRATE OUR COMMUNITY OF VOICES. Classical MPR’s Choral Stream includes a variety of Minnesota ensembles, composers, presenters and performances. Discover a range of musical styles — from world-class to college choirs, from Baroque to Bernstein.

Listen at classicalmpr.org/choral.

Made possible in part by the State of Minnesota Legacy Amendment’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, approved by voters in 2008.

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2019-2020 Season

2019-2020 SEASON

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Elhai The Lorenz Corporation Kris Kropff Subito Music Corporation David Murray Westminster Town Hall Forum Susan McKenna

WHAT A MIGHTY GOD, A Vocalessence WITNESS Concert Sunday, November 17, 2019 at 4 PM St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church 900 Stillwater Road Mahtomedi, MN 55115 VocalEssence Chorus VocalEssence Ensemble Singers Dr. André J. Thomas, conductor NaGuanda Nobles, soloist Christian Mark Gibbs, soloist Orchestra

2019-2020 SEASON SPONSORS

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

2019-2020 Season

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ARTIST STATEMENTS As VocalEssence WITNESS celebrates its thirtieth year, Philip Brunelle and I wanted to find a unique way to properly celebrate the impact this award-winning initiative has had in our community and beyond. And that’s when the thought occurred…Why settle for one celebration when we can have TWO? This season, we break the mold and celebrate the good times with: Two opportunities to hear amazing music highlighting the artistic contributions of African Americans to our shared cultural heritage; Two opportunities to gather together and reflect on the brilliant roster of Teaching Artists that has engaged over 100,000 young people in Minnesota classrooms; Two opportunities to engage and educate on issues of social justice and equity; Two opportunities to bring year-round attention to the stories and legacies our people continue to create.

To make What a Mighty God, A VocalEssence WITNESS Concert extra special, we welcome a beloved friend of VocalEssence and an internationally renowned composer, conductor, and pedagogue to lead this afternoon’s program. Dr. André Thomas is no stranger to VocalEssence having served as a guest conductor during the 2010-2011 concert season. His original compositions and arrangements of folk songs and spirituals have been sung by choirs around the world, with many ranking as best sellers. We are delighted to welcome André to conduct this specially curated presentation of spirituals and gospel, including the Minnesota premiere of his Mass: A Celebration of Love and Joy. —G. Phillip Shoultz, III, Associate Conductor | Director of Learning and Engagement It is a great pleasure for me to return to Minnesota and to all my friends at VocalEssence. I have fond memories of my last visit with you in 2011 at Orchestra Hall.

I am especially pleased to be sharing my new Mass: A Celebration of Love and Joy with you, having just premiered it in Kansas City last March for the national convention of the American Choral Directors Association. I am pleased that the soloists, NaGuanda Nobles and Christian Mark Gibbs who sang in the premiere can be with us and that the orchestrations are the work of a very talented Minneapolis composer, Robert Elhai.

It is also a joy to share with you the rich bounty of arrangements by African American composers on the first half of the program–music that I know will lift your spirits. It is music for all of us.

—Dr. André J. Thomas

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2019-2020 Season

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THE PROGRAM VocalEssence Chorus and Ensemble Singers In That Great Gettin’ Up Morning

arr. Don Marsh (1990)

VocalEssence Chorus The Drinking Gourd

arr. André Thomas (1997)

Goin’ Up to Glory

arr. André Thomas (1995)

He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands

arr. Margaret Bonds (1963)

Scandalize My Name

arr. Howard Rodgers (1990)

Swing Low, Sweet Chariot Beautiful City

arr. Evelyn Simpson-Current (1990) arr. André Thomas (2006)

Every Time I Feel the Spirit

arr. Moses Hogan (1995)

This Little Light of Mine

arr. Moses Hogan (2002)

Until I Reach My Home

arr. Brandon Boyd (2019)

INTERMISSION VocalEssence Chorus and Ensemble Singers What a Mighty God Mass: A Celebration of Love and Joy I. Kyrie II. Gloria III. Credo IV. Sanctus V. Agnus Dei How Majestic

TOGETHER WE SING FESTIVAL Sat, Jan 18, 2020 1:30-5 PM Minnesota History Center 345 W Kellogg Blvd Saint Paul, MN 55102

“Come together…right now” and sing as we honor the musical legacy of Minnesota and the rich tapestry of voices who call it home. Enjoy a performance by future stars from our radically diverse youth choir, VocalEssence Singers Of This Age, and give back to our community through a service project to benefit a local nonprofit.

arr. Michael Abels (1991) André Thomas (2018)

FREE | Advanced registration requested arr. Michael Abels (2005)

vocalessence.org 612-371-5656 2019-2020 Season

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TEXTS IN THAT GREAT GETTIN’ UP MORNING

arr. Don Marsh

GOIN’ UP TO GLORY

arr. André Thomas

I’m going to tell you about the coming of the judgment.

Fare thee well, Fare thee well.

There’s a better day coming.

Sun-up to sun-down, picking that cotton, Sun-up to sun-down, worked for the master, Sun-up to sun-down, chains and shackles, No more auction block for me!

Refrain: In that great gettin’ up morning, Fare thee well, Fare thee well.

Going up to glory Going up to meet my Lord I’m going up to glory Going up to meet my Lord

Preacher fold your Bible, For the last soul’s converted. Refrain:

Saints and sinners, Will you go see that heavenly land?

I’m going up to heaven to see my robe, See that heavenly land.

Blow your trumpet Gabriel Lord how loud shall I blow it?

Blow it right calm and easy, Do not alarm all my people, Tell them all to come to the judgment. Refrain: Then you see those coffins busting, Then you see the folks rising, Then you see the world on fire, Then you see the stars falling, Then you see that lightining, Then you hear that rumbling thunder, Fare thee well, poor sinner. Refrain: —Traditional

THE DRINKING GOURD

arr. André Thomas Follow the drinking gourd, Follow the drinking gourd, For the old man is awaiting for to carry you to freedom If you follow the drinking gourd.

When the sun comes back, And the first quail calls, Follow the drinking gourd.

The river bank will make a very good road.

The dead trees will show you the way.

Left foot, peg foot, traveling on, Follow the drinking gourd.

The river ends between two hills, Follow the drinking gourd.

There’s another river on the other side, Follow the drinking gourd.

Where the great river meets the little river, Follow the drinking gourd.

—Traditional

Brighter than the sun!

Meet my Lord!

—Traditional

HE’S GOT THE WHOLE WORLD IN HIS HANDS

arr. Margaret Bonds He’s got the whole world in His hand.

He’s got the wood and the waters in His hand, He’s got the sun and the moon right in His hand, He’s got the whole world in His hand.

He’s got the birds and the bees right in His hand, He’s got the beasts of the field right in His hand, He’s got the whole world in His hand.

He’s got you and me right in His hand, He’s got everybody in His hand, He’s got the whole world in His hand.

—Traditional SCANDALIZE MY NAME

arr. Howard Rodgers I met my brother the other day And gave him my right hand.

As soon as ever my back was turned He scandalized my name.

Now do you call that a brother?

No, no Scandalize my name.

I met my sister the other day And gave her my right hand.

As soon as ever my back was turned She too scandalized my name.

Now do you call that a sister?

No, no Scandalize my name.

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I met my preacher the other day And gave him my right hand.

As soon as ever my back was turned He too scandalized my name.

Out of God’s mouth came fire and smoke.

Looked all around me, it looked so fine, Till I asked my Lord if all was mine.

Now do you call that religion?

No, no Scandalize my name.

—Traditional

Jordan River, chilly and cold, It chills the body but not the soul.

There is but one train upon this track.

It runs to heaven and then right back.

—Traditional

CALVARY

arr. Evelyn Simpson-Current

THIS LITTLE LIGHT OF MINE

arr. Moses Hogan

They crucified my Lord, And he never said a mumbling word.

Can’t you hear those hammers ringing?

Surely he died on Calvary.

They pierced him in the side, And he never said a mumbling word.

His blood came streaming down, And he never said a mumbling word.

He hung his head and died, And he never said a mumbling word.

—Traditional

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.

All through the night, I’m gonna let it shine.

My God gave it to me, I’m gonna let it shine, children.

—Traditional

BEAUTIFUL CITY

arr. André Thomas Three gates in the east, Three gates in the west, Three gates in the north, Three gates in the south, Twelve gates to the city, Hallelu.

Oh, what a beautiful city!

Lord, I want to live up yonder, In bright mansions above.

My mother lives up in glory, I want to live there too.

My father lives up in glory, I want to live there too.

My sister lives up in glory, I want to live there too.

My brother lives up in glory, I want to live there too.

The beautiful city of God! I want to be in that number, The beautiful city of God! Twelve gates to the city, Hallelujah!

—Traditional

EV’RY TIME I FEEL THE SPIRIT

arr. Moses Hogan Every time I feel the Spirit, Moving in my heart I will pray.

Upon the mountain, when my Lord spoke,

UNTIL I REACH MY HOME

arr. Brandon A. Boyd Lord, until I reach my home.

Until I reach my home; I never expect my journey over, ’til I reach my home.

I would not be a sinner I’ll tell you the reason why; I’m afraid my Lord might call my name and I wouldn’t be ready to die.

I went up to the valley I didn’t go there to stay; Then my soul got happy, Then I stayed all day.

“Ain’a That Good News?”

I got a crown up in a that kingdom ain’a that good news?

I got a crown up in a that kingdom ain’a that good news?

I’m a gonna lay down this world gonna shoulder up a my cross, Gonna take it home to my Jesus, ain’a that good news?

—Traditional

INTERMISSION

WHAT A MIGHTY GOD

arr. Michael Abels What a mighty God we serve, We bow down before him, Heaven and earth adore him, What a mighty God we serve!

He is the master of the sky and sea, He’s the great Jehovah who lives eternally!

He is the Savior who died on Calvary, He’s a mighty God we serve!

2019-2020 Season

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Sing unto the Lord a new song, Clap your hands before him, praise the Lord!

Praise Him with the cymbal and praise Him with the dance, He’s a mighty God we serve!

Sing before him, he’s a mighty God! Dance before him, he’s a mighty God! Shout before him, alleluia!

—Traditional

MASS: A CELEBRATION OF LOVE AND JOY

André Thomas Kyrie Kyrie eleison. (Lord, have mercy on us.)

Lord, have mercy on us.

Sinner, please don’t let this harvest pass.

Where you gonna be when the trumpet sounds?

Lord, have mercy, Christ, have mercy.

In a world of disarray, in a world wracked with pain, We need your help, O Christ!

Christe, eleison. (Christ, have mercy on us.)

Christ, have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy on us.

Lord, King of heaven, have mercy on us!

Gloria Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to all people of goodwill.

We praise Thee, we bless Thee, We adore Thee, we glorify Thee, We give thanks to Thee for Thy great glory.

Lord God, King of heaven, Almighty One. Glory be to Jesus Christ, Lamb of God, the Son of God, Thou who takes away all the sins of the world, have mercy on us, receive our prayers.

Thou who sits at the right hand of God Almighty in heaven, have mercy on us!

For only Thou art holy, only Thou art the Lord.

Only Thou art holy, only Thou art most high.

In the name of God, in the name of the Son, In the name of the Holy Ghost, in the glory of the Trinity, Amen!

Credo I believe in God, Almighty.

I believe in God, Maker of heaven and earth, And in Jesus Christ, the Son, our Lord, Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, Born of the Virgin Mary, Suffered under Pilate, was crucified and buried.

He descended into hell!

On the third day, he rose.

He ascended to heaven.

From death he was set free.

Now he sits at the right hand, And he’s waiting for you and me.

He will judge all the world.

He will judge you and me.

I believe in the Holy Spirit.

I believe in God and the holy catholic church.

I believe in one baptism for the remission of sin and rebirth.

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2019-2020 Season

I believe in the resurrection, and the communion of saints in this world.

I believe when my life is over, I’m going home just to live with my God. I believe in the Father, in the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

I await the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.

I believe in God, Maker of heaven and earth, God Almighty!

I believe in God!

Sanctus Above him stood the seraphim, and one cried to another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is to come.

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; heaven and earth are full of thy glory.”

In the year that King Uzziah died I also saw the Lord.

He was sitting on his throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple.

Above it stood the seraphim.

Each one had six wings; with two he covered his face, And with two he covered his feet, and with two he did fly.

And one cried to another: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is to come.

Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; heaven and earth are full of thy glory.

Hosanna in the highest, Hosanna to the Son of David.

Blessed is he, who comes in the name of the Lord.”

Lord God of hosts.

Like the seraphim I want two wings to cover my face.

Oh Lord, I want two wings to fly away, so the world can’t do me no harm.

We’re crying holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; heaven and earth are full of thy glory!

Agnus Dei Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.

You died on Calvary, just to set the captives free.

You died on Calvary to save a sinner like me!

Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, grant us Thy peace!

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain.

The Lamb is worthy, redeemed by his precious blood.

God’s given us power and riches and wisdom and strength, Power and riches and glory and blessing.

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain.

Amen!

HOW MAJESTIC

arr. Michael Abels Oh Lord of Lords, how majestic is thy name o’er all the earth, Oh Lord, we praise your name, Oh Lord, we magnify your name, Prince of Peace, Mighty God, how majestic is your name, Oh Lord!

King of Kings (forever and ever), And Lord of Lords (hallelujah), And he shall reign forever and ever, how majestic is thy name, oh Lord!

—Traditional

BEHIND THE MUSIC Mass: A Celebration of Love and Joy Dr. André Thomas kicked off his long career as a scholar, composer, and conductor when he was just 14, taking charge of his church’s music program in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas. Last year, he retired from his role as a professor of choral education at Florida State University. In creating his Mass: A Celebration of Love and Joy, Thomas used his lifetime love of gospel to infuse the work with the uplifting energy of African American musical traditions.

“Hymns of gospel songs were the first thing I started banging out on the piano at age four,” said Thomas, “but there wasn’t a mass written using the conventions of gospel until 1978, when Robert Ray composed his Gospel Mass. I thought, ‘It’s been 40 years, it’s time there was another gospel mass written!’”

The mass includes five movements: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei. Although Latin is the traditional language of liturgy, “In my mass, I used a little bit of Latin in the opening movement. In the remaining movements, I use English translations of the Latin text and various interpolations from scripture,” said Thomas, “because gospel music should be immediately accessible to the listener.”

He found a particular opportunity to express himself in setting the Kyrie and Sanctus. “The interpolation in the Kyrie reflects my own change of heart about the Negro spiritual. When I first started studying music, I thought Spirituals gave white people the opportunity to make fun of black people.” It was Jester Hariston who challenged this perspective. He said, “What bothers you is dialect.

The “th” sound in English was not present in any of the African dialects, so your ancestors simply accommodated. He explained many more things. It changed my life. I found pride and identity in learning the history of my ancestors, and you can hear that love of the spiritual reflected in my utilization of the spiritual, ‘Sinner, please don’t let this harvest pass.’”

“…It changed my life.

I found pride and identity in learning the history of my ancestors…”

–Dr. André Thomas

“The Sanctus opens with a quartal harmony,” Thomas says, “which is a nod to French composer Francis Poulenc,” a favorite composer of his, known for his use of quartal harmony. With the additional text, he said, “I wanted to be more descriptive of the vision of the Prophet found in the Book of Isaiah, Chapter 6. The Sanctus text in English is, ‘Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of Hosts. Heaven and Earth are full of thy Glory.’ I wanted to go beyond that and show the scene of these angels, cherubim and seraphim, whose job is just to sit near the throne of God and cry Holy, Holy, Holy.”

“The Ray Gospel Mass ends with a reflective feeling,” Thomas said. “I decided, ‘This is a celebration of love and joy—I want it to end UP!’” He hopes the Minnesota audience for the piece, a symphonic presentation orchestrated by Robert Elhai, will connect with its style and spirit. “If listeners catch that exuberance, and that feeling of wanting to jump for joy—well, it will be exactly the response I had in mind when I started writing.”

2019-2020 Season

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LEARNING AND ENGAGEMENT SPOTLIGHT VocalEssence Singers Of This Age: Simone Meyer VESOTA, also known as VocalEssence Singers Of This Age, is one of our newest programs. Its bold mission? To build a youth choir that truly reflects our community’s diversity. VocalEssence has been a presence in local high schools for decades, so we knew these kids loved to sing. VESOTA was designed to take away all the barriers that stood between committed enthusiasm and actual participation in a choir: it provides transportation and meals for all events, free performance outfits, and access to other local arts events.

“I had no intention of being a part of VESOTA. I thought I wouldn’t be good enough,” said Simone Meyer, who was a sophomore at Edison High School in Minneapolis when the school’s choir teacher encouraged her to join. At the time, Simone had lost her connection to her natural love of performing.

Newly transplanted from Texas, Simone had tried to find her voice in school choir, but she still felt like an outsider. “I became a very shy and whispery singer, and developed stage fright,” she said.

It was her father who gave her that extra nudge. “My dad, wanting me to succeed, convinced me to audition. It ended being the best decision of my life.”

In VESOTA, Simone didn’t just get her confident voice back, she found a community.

“I’ve never felt more at home in a choir than with VESOTA. You won’t ever meet anyone as beautiful, kind, funny, and strong as these singers. When we rehearse, nobody is ever left out. If you have difficulties learning a section to a song, Shoultz meets with you one-on-one. We are constantly giving each other support and courage. Through VESOTA, I’ve made friends with people who live across the world from me—and I’ve made friends with people who attend my school. We may have 50 bodies but our hearts all beat as one,” she said.

“My dad, wanting me to succeed, convinced me to audition. It ended being the best decision of my life.”

— Simone, VESOTA Singer

“I remember the thrill of stepping on the stage of Orchestra Hall for the first time, of singing at the Ordway for the first time, and how special it felt to perform in such beautiful spaces. We sang to change people’s lives, to live in a moment of happiness, to be powerful and fearless. To sing is to feel completely free. Free without limitation. Free without judgment.”

Simone was one of the founding members of VESOTA. Going into her third year with the choir, she knows it has changed her forever. They can even tell down in Texas. “My mom still lives there, so she isn’t able to see me every day, but it really touches her heart when I tell her about transforming people’s lives with music and community. She said it’s a gift to a mother, hearing me speak so passionately about something that I love.”

It’s a gift Simone loves sharing. “If anyone was wondering about this choir and wanted to join, I would tell them, ‘We sing to have fun, we sing because we love it. It just so happens that changing the world by doing what we love comes with our unity and strength. Our choir is beautiful—and it would be even more so with you.”

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Investing in our communities has always been, and continues to be a cornerstone of our company. It’s why since 1946 Target has our guests and team members live, work and play. Learn more at Target.com/corporateresponsibility. Š2016 Target Brands, Inc. Target and the Bullseye Design are registered trademarks of Target Brands, Inc. C-000415-06-003

2019-2020 Season

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VOCALESSENCE FAMILY SERIES 2019-2020 CALENDAR Featuring child-centered programming with live music, crafts, and opportunities to sing and move.

Sat, Sept 28, 2019

TALES & TUNES

Read, sing, and create at this

musical story time

Larson Hall, American Swedish Institute, Minneapolis

WINTER WONDER

Sat, Dec 14, 2019

THREE EVENTS Clap, wiggle, and sing along to your

favorite holiday songs

Reception Hall, Minneapolis Institute of Art, Minneapolis

MOANA MOVIE SING-ALONG

Sat, Feb 1, 2020

TWO EVENTS Sing out proudly with VocalEssence singers

while watching this new Disney classic

Larson Hall, American Swedish Institute, Minneapolis

Thurs, May 21, 2020 VOCALESSENCE ยกCANTARร !

COMMUNITY CONCERT 2020

Celebrate Mexico through new music sung by students

Ordway Music Theater, Saint Paul

Sat, May 30, 2020

VOICES CALLING PRE-TOUR CONCERT

See the future of choral music at

this inspirational concert

Hoversten Chapel, Augsburg University, Minneapolis

Tickets: Adult (18+) $15 / Child (0-17) FREE vocalessence.org/welcomefamily or 612-371-5656 Page 24

2019-2020 Season

BIOGRAPHIES Dr. André J. Thomas, renowned conductor, composer, and arranger has a worldwide reputation in the field of choral music and as professor of choral activities at Florida State University. He also is President-Elect of the American Choral Directors Association and his guest conducting has taken him throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, and all 50 states in the USA. In 2011, Dr. Thomas was the featured conductor for the VocalEssence WITNESS concert at Orchestra Hall.

ORCHESTRA

As a composer and arranger, he has dozens of published works as well as two instructional videos. He is the most sought-after African American choral conductor in the USA and his music is found in virtually every high school and college and university library.

VIOLIN 2 Carol Lebovic Emily Saatoff Claire Loudon Ian Synder Stephanie Skor

In March 2017, ACDA presented Dr. Thomas with its highest honor the Robert Shaw Award, and in November 2017, National Collegiate Choral Organization presented him with its Lifetime Achievement Award.

At an early age, Mrs. NaGuanda Nobles discovered a love for singing. She accepted a full scholarship to attend F.S.U. and received a BM and MM degree in Voice Performance. Receiving rave reviews for her “big, warming soprano with a lovely shimmering top that she uses with a ravishing effect,” Mrs. Nobles has made her mark on the concert and operatic stages.

She offers a winning combination of beauty and intensity in her singing. Please visit www.naguandanobles.com for more information.

Christian Mark Gibbs is very excited to sing with VocalEssence. A New York City native, he has sung with The Metropolitan Opera (Porgy and Bess), Denver Center (Oklahoma), Opera Colorado (Falstaff), the Philadelphia Orchestra (Tosca), and the Aspen Music Festival (La Traviata). His awards include the 2019 Guyana Cultural Association, the 2016 Metropolitan Opera Competition (Regional Finalist), and the 2017 GJ Symphony Young Artist. www.christianmarkgibbs.com

VIOLIN 1 Roger Frisch Brenda Mickens Kseniya Khvashchynskaya Louisa Woodful-Harris Cindy Marvin Renata Steve

BASS Irving Steinberg Electric Bass Greg Hippen FLUTE/PICCOLO Hannah Green-Peterson OBOE/ ENGLISH HORN Sarah Carmack CLARINET Jennifer Gerth BASSOON Emma Pichal

VIOLA Alastair Browne Charles Krenner Tamas Strasser CELLO Jane Cords-O’Hara Diane Tremaine Darin Anderson

FRENCH HORN Neal Bolter Allison Akins

TROMBONE Phillip Ostrander BASS TROMBONE Larry Zimmerman TIMPANI Erik Barsness PERCUSSION Josh Carlson DRUM SET Steve Kimball PIANO Dan Chouinard CONTRACTOR Chris Volpe

TRUMPET Martin Hodel Jonathan Brandt

American Public Media and Classical Minnesota Public Radio present

WELCOME CHRISTMAS WITH HOST JOHN BIRGE

Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2019 at 7pm and stream on-demand in the Holidays section at YourClassical.org Classical Minnesota Public Radio 99.5 FM in the Twin Cities and online at classicalmpr.org This year’s VocalEssence Welcome Christmas broadcast features music from our 2018 concert, with performances of the créme de la créme of Christmas premiers over the past 49 years and looks toward the future with Nico Muhly’s The Faire Starre.

2019-2020 Season

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FAMILY SERIES SPOTLIGHT: The Roeger Family Choral music lovers have been around for hundreds of years, but by 1969, when VocalEssence launched its concert programming, Western musical culture was changing at lightning speed. Rap and punk hadn’t even been invented yet, and the choir’s youngest members spent their high school and college years listening to brand-new sounds out of the United Kingdom by artists only a few years out of college themselves: The Beatles and the Rolling Stones.

VocalEssence could continue growing only if every new wave of young people understood the magic of group singing. Religious music gave the world composers like Bach, but the joy from singing together lifted the human spirit long before that, and it will continue to do so far into the future—as long as we keep teaching it to our youth!

That’s why the VocalEssence Family Series was created. The Family Series respects the high energy of children and tailors its programming to their rhythms: storybook readings and nursery rhymes for the littlest, movie musical sing-alongs for the grade-schoolers. And it keeps events affordable by making admission for children free with the purchase of an adult ticket.

Andrea Roeger, a former singer in the VocalEssence Chorus, has three children ages six and under. The Family Series programming has been a staple of her weekend activities calendar for the past few years.

“As a singer myself, I love choral music and wanted to expose my children to it in a way that would be inspiring and engaging,” said Roeger. “These concerts where just what I was looking for!”

“I wanted to expose my children to it in a way that would be inspiring and engaging,” said Roeger. “These concerts where just what I was looking for!”

–Andrea Roeger Roeger reports that family friends and, of course, grandparents have joined in the fun of accompanying Cole (six), Kai (four), and sometimes even baby Levi to the shows. “Everyone loves the mix of pieces specifically for children, interaction to keep kids engaged, and pieces you’d expect to hear at concerts for an adult audience.”

“The Christmas concerts are helping us build what I hope will become a family tradition. And the kids loved the Tales and Tunes event, because the audience had the opportunity to listen, learn, and create.

The children get exposed to a wide variety of music, and it’s a stress-free experience because it’s done in bite-sized pieces. Most Family Series concerts are long enough to hear several songs, but not so long that my kids get bored. We always leave excited to come back for more.”

What does Roeger want other parents to know? “These programs are a wonderful way to expose children to quality live choral music in a fun and interactive way,” she says. “I grew up listening to classical music and have grown to love and appreciate it because of that exposure. If we want to ensure that beautiful music continues to be produced and performed, and that musicians are supported and have an audience, we need to teach our kids so that they develop a love and appreciation for it too. The Family Series is a great outlet for that.”

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2019-2020 Season

2019-2020 SEASON

SPECIAL THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT OF THIS CONCERT American Composers Forum

Eivind Heiberg, Connie O’Brien, and Linda Pederson

SPECIAL THANKS Kjell Bergh Dan Forrest Carolyn Jennings Jaakko Mäntyjärvi Michael Moore Mack Wilberg

WELCOME CHRISTMAS Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 7:30 PM Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, Apple Valley Sunday, December 8, 2019 4 PM Plymouth Congregational Church, Minneapolis Friday, December 13, 2019 7:30 PM Plymouth Congregational Church, Minneapolis Sunday, December 15, 2019 4 PM Roseville Lutheran Church, Roseville VocalEssence Chorus & Ensemble Singers Philip Brunelle, conductor G. Phillip Shoultz, III, conductor Orchestra

2019-2020 SEASON SPONSORS

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

2019-2020 Season

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ARTIST STATEMENT

THE PROGRAM

I love planning the Welcome Christmas program with the challenge of having so many possibilities to choose from!

Usually a ‘main piece’ presents itself and from there the rest of the program evolves. That is true this year with our commission of Kim André Arnesen for Nordic Christmas.

VocalEssence Ensemble Singers

Several years ago I spoke with Eivind Hallberg, CEO of Sons of Norway, about their upcoming Sons of Norway 125th Anniversary and suggested that they might be interested in celebrating the occasion with a choral work by a Norwegian composer to be heard across the USA. With his interest and that of the board of Sons of Norway, I approached Kim about such a holiday commission and he was intrigued. Now it is a reality and I know you will be delighted!

Realizing that we had this Scandinavian work (using carols from various Nordic countries) it made sense to add music from Sweden, Finland, and Norway to the mix for the first half; as a contrast we are focusing on arrangements of Christmas melodies from USA composers for the second half–many favorites and some, as always, with audience participation.

For the 22nd year we are delighted to have our carol competition collaborating with the American Composers Forum.

Each year the competition focuses on carols for choir with one solo instrument—this year we feature the violin. Almost 50 entries came from across the USA and Canada and we are pleased to have 2 wonderful carols to add to our Christmas canon.

It is a busy and wonderful time of year! I trust it will be a special season for each of you as well.

— Philip Brunelle Artistic Director and Founder

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Stephen Was a Stable Boy Jaakko Mäntyjärvi

World Premiere of SATB Version (2016) Miles and Miles Justin Merritt

Roger Frisch, violin (2014) Snow Sigurd Lie, arr. Øistein Sommerfeldt

Chloe Johnson, soloist (1974) The Orbit Carol Paul John Rudoi

Welcome Christmas Carol Contest Winner (2019)

Roger Frisch, violin Nordic Christmas Kim André Arnesen

World Premiere (2019) I. O Yule, Full of Gladness (Å, jul med din glede) II. A Little Child, Delightfully (Et lidet barn saa lystelig)

JoAnna Johnson, soloist III. Now Shine a Thousand Candles Bright (Nu tändas tusen julejus)

Myrtle Lemon, soloist IV. Good Day, You Green and Glittering Tree (Du grønne, glitrende tre, god dag)

David Gindra, soloist V. Lovely is the Dark Blue Sky (Dejlig er den himmel blå)

Margaret Sabin, soloist VI. A Child is Born in Bethlehem (Eit barn er født I Betlehem) INTERMISSION VocalEssence Chorus Have You Seen the Baby Jesus?

Rosephanye Powell (2011)

Festival First Nowell*

Trad. French, arr. Dan Forrest (2014)

Little Lamb, Who Made Thee

Welcome Christmas Carol Contest Winner

Roger Frisch, violin In Silent Night

Travis Ramsey (2019) Mitchell Southall (1957)

VocalEssence Chorus & Ensemble Singers O Tannenbaum

Trad. German, arr. Alice Parker (1953)

Iesus Anattonnia (Huron Carol) Algonquin Carol, arr. Susan LaBarr (2012) I Saw Three Ships & We Three Kings* English Carol & American hymn,

( from “A Christmas Garland”) arr. Conrad Susa

Michael Fairbairn, Erik Krogh, Joseph Ellickson, soloists (1989) Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming Michael Praetorius, arr. Jan Sandström (1995) O Little Town of Bethlehem

American hymn, arr. David Evan Thomas (2010)

A Band of Gypsies (Una tropa de gitanos) Mexico anonymous, ed. Craig Russell

Mari Scott, Natalia Romero Arbelaez, (2001)

Patty Kramer, Anders Eckman, soloists Christmas Is Coming English Carol, arr. Mack Wilberg

Orchestration by Philip Brunelle and Paul Gerike (2015) *Audience Sing In gratitude for the inspiration that David and Ann Buran provided to VocalEssence for so many years, we are pleased to dedicate the first Welcome Christmas concert at Plymouth Congregational Church each season in their honor. We look forward to celebrating their contributions at these performances for years to come.

Add sparkle to your holiday season with original carols alongside outstanding arrangements of your favorite melodies.

At this Welcome your Christmas with glorious music ranging from “Jingle Bells” to Nordic carols—plus John Rutter’s “Carol of the Magi” for chorus and cello.

concert Buy any 3 CDs get one FREE!

Available at the CD table and via vocalessence.org.

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TEXTS AND TRANSLATIONS STEPHEN WAS A STABLE BOY Jaakko Mäntyjärvi

MILES AND MILES Justin Merritt

Stephen was a stable boy, – steady now, steed of mine! he watered his horses five.

– all for the shining star.

The dead of winter on the road Miles and miles from home The desert dust stings my eyes Miles and miles to go Miles and miles and miles and miles Miles before I sleep Miles and miles and miles and miles On this Christmas eve

No dawn is yet seen, yet seen!

But the stars they sparkle in the sky.

Two [of them] were red, they earned their keep well.

Two [of them] were white, they were alike each other.

The fifth he was dapple-grey, that one Stephen rides himself!

No dawn is yet seen, yet seen!

But the stars they sparkle in the sky.

Before the rooster has crowed, he already was in the stable.

Quickly the saddle is put on, before the sunrise.

Leather coat and cap, dogs and rifle.

No dawn is yet seen, yet seen!

But the stars they sparkle in the sky.

He reached the forest before anyone had woken.

On the trail of the ugly wolf bold and fearless he goes.

Stephen brought down the wolf, and now the wolf is no more.

No dawn is yet seen, yet seen!

But the stars they sparkle in the sky.

Stephen rode to the cellar vault, where he was used to draw the ale.

Now there’s a fire in our hearth, Christmas gruel and Christmas pork.

After Christmas, Brother Knut – steady now, steed of mine! brings the song to an end.

– Help us God and Saint Stephen!

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No dawn is yet seen, yet seen!

But the stars they sparkle in the sky.

—Traditional, Translated by Jaakko Mäntyjärvi 2019-2020 Season

Now nine long months have come and gone Miles and miles from home Can’t wait to see my first born son Miles and miles to go My baby will be born tonight Miles and miles from home Who will give me shelter here?

Miles and miles to go We have to flee to save our child Miles and miles from home God only knows when we’ll return Miles and miles to go Still they cry in Bethlehem Miles and miles from home Mothers comfort little ones Miles and miles to go —Justin Merritt SNOW Sigurd Lie, arr. Øistein Sommerfeldt There is nothing in the world so quiet as snow As it slowly falls and flecks the cold air; Muffling your tread, hushing every step, Muting noisy voices and their clamor.

There is nothing in the world so clean as the snow: Soft swan-down of whitened wings from heaven.

On your hand a flake fine as silken cloth.

Purest thoughts in silent dance enliven.

There is nothing in the world that soothes as the snow; Silently you hear soft sounds now pealing.

Oh, so fine a tone like a silver bell In your heart of hearts now clear is chiming.

—Helge Rode, Translated by Leland B. Sateren

The Text The Orbit Carol, by Paul John Rudoi

THE ORBIT CAROL   Paul John Rudoi

we will circle round circle round

circling round

a distant light we seek tonight a star so bright cannot be found so turn the world around

that fateful day we orbit a babe protect it from ourselves until and so we fly to see a sign

circle round

circle round

see birds of love circling above reminders of a flight begun to save a blazing sun release

beginning with a birth ensnares a love of sacred worth a life of pain and slow

circle round

circle round

ever seeking, ever blest, a world in toil and tenderness orbits a babe

orbits a babe a world in toil and tenderness ever seeking, ever blest,

circle round

circle round

herds are flocking to and fro they’re on the move, such urgency to find what you and me

are running to the call with maids and mothers one and all we kings and boys and shepherds too

circle round

For more information on this music or to purchase scores, please visit www.pauljohnrudoi.com.

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NORDIC CHRISTMAS

Kim André Arnesen Commissioned by VocalEssence and Philip Brunelle, Artistic Director, with support from Sons of Norway, the largest Norwegian-American organization in the world, in celebration of their 125th Anniversary.

I.

O Yule, Full of Gladness

O Yule, full of gladness and cheer and delight, We welcome you now with our singing.

Our hearts open wide to the brilliance of light From heaven to earth you are bringing.

We merrily clap and sing, A happy welcome bring, So happily, so happily.

For joy and love is born now at Christmas!

With shepherds and wiseman your star we behold, Its brightness o’er Bethlehem beaming, And we too would follow, as prophets foretold, Where light everlasting is streaming.

Now join hand in hand, and together we’ll welcome The Yule, and pledge love and faith to each other, For we all are bound by the love that we share, Rejoice every sister and brother!

—Gustava Kielland, Translated by Carolyn Jennings II.

A Little Child, Delightfully

A little child, delightfully, Is born to all Earth’s people By purest maiden, wondrously; He came to be our Savior.

Had not the son of God been born, We all would be lost; He is our sole Redeemer.

We thank you, sweetest Jesus Christ, For being born in human form; Protect us from all evil.

—Traditional German, Translated by

Bjørn Fredrik Meyer III.

Now Shine a Thousand Candles Bright

Now shine a thousand candles bright upon the world’s dark sphere; the deep blue sky is set alight as myriad flames appear.

In suburb, ghetto, farm and town they spread the news abroad that Jesus Christ is born tonight, our Savior and our God. O star that shines o’er Bethlehem, now let your kindly light with tranquil hope and glory shine in every home tonight.

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To every dark and anguished heart send down your ray divine, and may the light of God’s own love like Christmas candles shine.

—Emmy Köhler, Translated by J. Irving Erickson

and Karl A. Olson IV.

Good Day, You Green and Glittering Tree

Good day, you green and glittering tree!

We welcome you as we gladly greet you With Christmas lights and Norwegian flags And high on top is your shinig star.

Yes, it must shine for us to remind, Yes, it must shine for it will remind Us of our God, yes, of our God. The first Yule in a foreign land God lit a brilliant star to show That, as was promised in prophesy, God’s Son was sent for all to see.

Yes, starlight shone on the angel’s mirth ’Round Bethlehem, ’round Bethlehem.

Our parents taught us of Jesus, the Son, On evenings when in our home we gathered.

We know His law and His gentle words; We know we’ll never forsake them.

The star still shines, and our tree reminds us.

Our Christmas tree, our Christmas tree.

—Johan Krohn, Translated by anonymous

adapted by Kim André Arnesen V.

Lovely is the Dark Blue Sky

Lovely is the dark blue sky, Joy to see for every eye; How the golden stars are blinking, How they’re smiling, how they’re winking From the earth to Heaven high!

In the midst of Christmas night, Through the dark a glimmering light; Suddenly we saw appearing Brightest flame, the heavens clearing, Like a little star-sun bright.

Blessed star, as bright as day, Toward the Child you light the way; Bright and glorious through the ages As foretold in sacred pages, Shine upon our path, we pray!

—Nikolai Frederik Severin Grundtvig, Translated by Charles Anthony Silvestri and Kim André Arnesen, based on “Bright and Glorious is the Sky” from the Lutheran Hymnal and “Lovely is the dark blue sky” by an unknown translator.

VI.

A Child is Born in Bethlehem

A Child is born in Bethlehem; Exult for joy Jerusalem!

Alleluia, alleluia!

FESTIVAL FIRST NOWELL Trad. French, arr. Dan Forrest

There in a manger lowly lies, Lo, He who reigns above the skies.

Alleluia, alleluia!

All: The first Nowell the angels did say Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay; In fields where they lay, keeping their sheep, On a cold winter’s night that was so deep: Nowell, born is the King of Israel.

The ox and ass in neighboring stall.

See in that Child the Lord of all.

Alleluia, alleluia!

Sopranos and Altos: They lookèd up and saw a star shining in the east beyond them far;

And wise men from the East did bring.

Gold, myrrh and incense to the King; Alleluia, alleluia!

Tenors and Basses: And to the earth it gave great light, And so it continued both day and night.

His mother is the Virgin mild.

And He is the Father’s only child.

Alleluia, alleluia!

Chorus alone: Nowell, born is the King of Israel.

And like our God we shall be.

The kingdom of heaven we shall see.

Alleluia, alleluia!

Give thanks and praise eternally.

To God, the Holy Trinity.

Alleluia, alleluia!

—Traditional Latin, Translated by Hamilton

Montgomerie MacGill (vs. 1, 2, 3, 5) Jens Christian Aaberg

(vs. 4), Kim André Arnesen (vs. 6), and anonymous (vs. 7) HAVE YOU SEEN THE BABY JESUS?

Rosephanye Powell Have you seen the baby Jesus, the King of kings?

He was born of a virgin in Bethlehem.

Did you find Him in a stable, the King of kings?

Was He laid in a manger, wrapped in swaddling clothing, Born of a virgin in Bethlehem?

It was foretold by the prophets of old That a virgin would conceive God’s son.

And as the angels rejoiced that night, the shepherds saw a holy light.

They will call Him “Emmanuel,” Lo, God is with us, “Jesus,” “Messiah,” the King of Kings, Who was laid in a manger, wrapped in swaddling clothing, Born of a virgin in Bethlehem.

Let us worship baby Jesus, the King of kings.

Let us bow down before Him, praise and adore Him, Worship the baby, the King of kings, We will call Him “Emmanuel,”

—Rosephanye Powell

All: Then let us all with one accord Sing praises to our heav’nly Lord That hath made heav’n and earth of nought, And with His blood mankind hath bought: Nowell, born is the King of Israel.

—Traditional

LITTLE LAMB, WHO MADE THEE Travis Ramsey Little Lamb who made thee Dost thou know who made thee Gave thee life & bid thee feed.

By the stream & o’er the mead; Gave thee clothing of delight, Softest clothing wooly bright; Gave thee such a tender voice, Making all the vales rejoice!

Little Lamb who made thee Dost thou know who made thee Little Lamb I’ll tell thee, Little Lamb I’ll tell thee!

He is called by thy name, For he calls himself a Lamb: He is meek & he is mild, He became a little child: I a child & thou a lamb, We are called by his name.

Little Lamb God bless thee.

Little Lamb God bless thee.

—William Blake

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IN SILENT NIGHT Mitchell Southall In silent night, when all is calm and all is bright, In silent night, O holy night, the Baby from heaven is born on

this night.

The Child, innocent Child is born.

In silent night, as darkness flies and all is light In silent night, O holy night, the Baby in radiance lay sleep on

this night.

The Child, the holy Child is born.

In silent night, this Son of God and son of man Shall one day cry and later die upon a cross for you and me.

The Child, the Prince of Peace is born.

—Mitchell Southall O TANNENBAUM Trad. German, arr. Alice Parker O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How lovely are thy branches; Not only green when summer’s here, But in the coldest time of year, O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How lovely are thy branches.

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How richly God has decked thee, Thou bidst us true and faithful be, And trust in God unchangingly.

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, How richly God has decked thee!

—Traditional German, Translated by Alice Parker

Come kneel before the radiant Boy Who brings you beauty, peace, and joy.

“Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, in excelsis gloria.”

—Traditional I SAW THREE SHIPS & WE THREE KINGS English carol & American hymn, arr. Conrad Susa Chorus: I saw three ships come sailing in, On Christmas Day, on Christmas Day, I saw three ships come sailing in, On Christmas Day in the morning.

And what was in those ships all three?

We three Kings of Orient are; Bearing gifts we traverse afar.

Field and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star.

All: O Star of Wonder, star of night, star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to thy perfect light.

Soloists: Born a king on Bethlehem’s plain, Gold I bring, to crown Him again, King forever ceasing never Over us all to reign.

Frankincense to offer have I, Incense owns a Deity nigh.

Prayer and praising all men raising, Worship Him God most high.

IESUS ANATTONNIA Algonquin Carol, arr. Susan LaBarr

Myrrh is mine, it’s bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom; Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in a stone cold tomb.

’Twas in the moon of wintertime when all the birds had fled, That mighty Gitchi Manitou sent angel choirs instead; Before their light the stars grew dim, And wandering hunters heard the hymn: “Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, in excelsis gloria.”

Chorus: Glorious now behold Him arise, King and God and Sacrifice, Alleluia, Alleluia, Earth to the Heavens replies.

Within a lodge of broken bark the tender Babe was found, A ragged robe of rabbit skin enwrapped His beauty round; But as the hunter braves drew nigh, The angel song rang loud and high: “Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, in excelsis gloria.”

All: O Star of Wonder, star of night, star with royal beauty bright, Westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to thy perfect light.

The earliest moon of wintertime is not so round and fair As was the ring of glory on the helpless Infant there; The chiefs from far before him knelt With gifts of fox and beaver pelt.

“Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, in excelsis gloria.”

Oh children of the forest free, oh sons of Manitou, The Holy Child of earth and heaven is born today for you.

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LO, HOW A ROSE E’ER BLOOMING Michael Praetorius, arr. Jan Sandström Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming from tender stem hath sprung!

Of Jesse’s lineage coming, as those of old have sung.

It came a flower bright, amid the cold of winter, When half spent was the night.

—Traditional German, Translated by Theodore Baker, alt.

O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM American hymn, arr. David Evan Thomas

CHRISTMAS IS COMING English carol, arr. Mack Wilberg

O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie; Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by.

Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light; The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat; Please do put a penny in the old man’s hat.

If you haven’t got a penny, a ha’penny will do; If you haven’t got a ha’penny then God bless you!

If you haven’t got a penny, don’t wonder what to do You are always rich enough to say, “Yes, God bless you!”

For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above, While mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wond’ring love.

O morning stars together, proclaim the holy birth, And praises sing to God the king, and peace to all on earth!

How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is given; So God imparts to human hearts the blessings of his heaven.

No ear may hear his coming, but in this world of sin, Where meek souls will receive him, still the dear Christ enters in.

O holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin, and enter in, be born in us today.

We hear the Christmas angels the great glad tidings tell; O come to us, abide with us, our Lord Emmanuel.

—Phillips Brooks A BAND OF GYPSIES (UNA TROPA DE GITANOS) Mexico anonymous, ed. Craig H. Russell

A band of Gypsies.

In search of good fortune, Come to adore the Christ Child, They come to rock His cradle.

The loving souls, Full of affection, greet Him And with lilting voices In sweet rocking they sweetly lull him to sleep.

To the “ro, ro, ro, ro rito” Sleep tight, my beloved little one, To the “ro, ro, ro, ro,” What a beautiful child!

To the “ro, ro, ro, ro,” What a pretty face!

Christmas is coming, and with a jolly band; Please do slip a penny in a lonely hand.

If you haven’t got a penny, a ha’penny will do; If you haven’t got a ha’penny then God bless you!

If you haven’t got a penny, don’t wonder what to do You are always rich enough to say, “Yes, God bless you!”

Christmas is coming, the shop is brim with toys; Please do give a penny to the orphan boys.

If you haven’t got a penny, a ha’penny will do; If you haven’t got a ha’penny then God bless you!

If you haven’t got a penny, don’t wonder what to do You are always rich enough to say, “Yes, God bless you!”

If you haven’t got a guinea, or even half a crown, If you only have a pence or two, then don’t you fret and frown.

Just reflect upon your blessings, and all your kith and kin, And remember that in giving all, you let the season in!

Christmas is coming, the figgy pudding’s here; Please do give a penny with your Christmas cheer!

If you haven’t got a penny, a ha’penny will do; If you haven’t got a ha’penny then God bless you!

Oh, Christmas is coming, the goose has gotten fat; Please do give a penny for a fine new hat!

If you haven’t got a penny, a ha’penny will do; If you haven’t got a ha’penny then God bless you!

If you haven’t got a penny, don’t wonder what to do You are always rich enough to say, “Yes, God bless you!”

—Traditional

A crib, full of mystery, And in it some meager straw Makes ready for the Divine Child, So that his mother might give birth.

—Anonymous, Translated by Craig H. Russell

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BEHIND THE MUSIC Kim André Arnesen’s Nordic Christmas Up-and-coming Norwegian composer Kim André Arnesen considered a few different factors when he sat down to choose the pieces that would become Nordic Christmas. “I looked at works that have been personal favorites in my life and those I thought had the greatest potential in this larger setting,” said Arnesen, “but I also hunted for music that deserved more attention, both in the Nordic countries and internationally.”

Kim André Arnesen

“I find that making some drastic changes to the character of a song can bring out hidden aspects or emotions, leading the listener to discover new meanings in a text.”

When it came time to shape the individual carols into Nordic Christmas, he enjoyed putting his own artistic mark on the works.

“I find that making some drastic changes to the character of a song can bring out hidden aspects or emotions, leading the listener to discover new meanings in a text,” said Arnesen. “I tend to focus on developing a new character, tempo, and soundscape. This is why Lovely is the Dark Blue Sky turned into a slower, darker piece, and how A Child is Born in Bethlehem became a combination of polka, bluegrass, and French baroque with some elements from the Middle East! I can’t keep the composer in me from writing countermelodies, intros, and interludes. There are actually a lot of my own countermelodies and themes in this work.”

Arnesen discovered there was more to the carols he’d grown up with in Norway than he previously knew. “It was very interesting to learn that many of ‘our’ Christmas carols actually come from other countries,” he said. “That’s true for most of our popular carols, many of which combine a text from one country with music from another. The melody of O Yule, Full of Gladness is actually from Sweden, where it’s not known as a Christmas carol at all. Good Day, You Green and Glittering Tree is very popular in Norway, but it’s of Danish origin, where the melody is only known as a wedding hymn.

That particular carol proved to be the most challenging to incorporate in the arrangement. “I knew I couldn’t include the original harmony in all three verses of Good Day, You Green and Glittering Tree,” said Arnesen, “but to re-harmonize that piece was easier said than done. It turned out to be quite tricky— maybe the style it was originally written in is too far from my tonal idiom. The harmonization of that carol became a puzzle, almost a math problem, where the solution was how to keep it musical, organic, and to my liking. I didn’t want it to become ‘quirky,’ but I did want to bring out the melody in a new way by making some surprises harmonically.”

The attentive listener has more to “watch” for, too: “One small fun fact is that I’ve hidden bits of three very popular English Christmas carols in the work,” said Arnesen. “They are obvious if you hear them, but they go by quickly and might not be easy to recognize the first time you hear the piece!”

Ultimately, the music is about sharing a special moment together and making the memory of that moment linger. “I want the audience to experience the celebration, the mystery, and the spirit of Christmas in this work,” said Arnesen. “All these carols mean so much to me, since I’ve basically grown up with them, singing them in choir in the church or school as a child, or at Christmas Tree parties. These are all carols that can make me cry because they are so beautiful. In Minnesota, many in the audience will be familiar with Nordic culture, so I hope the music will connect with that shared history and heritage. Also, it would be wonderful if they discover a new favorite carol! Whether they play the music at home, sing it to their families, or share it with a choir they sing in, I’d like these Nordic jewels to reach a wider audience.”

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BIOGRAPHIES

The American Composers Forum is committed to supporting composers and developing new markets for their music.

Through granting, commissioning, and performance programs, the Forum provides composers at all stages of their careers with valuable resources for professional and artistic development. By linking communities with composers and performers, the Forum fosters a demand for new music, enriches communities, and helps develop the next generation of composers, musicians, and music patrons. https://composersforum.org/

Travis M. Ramsey’s choral works include a setting of Nancy Tillman’s On The Night You Were Born, three settings of the Magnificat, and eight smaller Christmas carols.

In 2016, he was a finalist in the Hendrix College Candlelight Carol Competition, and in 2018, he was the winner of ChoralART’s New England Carol Competition. His latest commission, The Importance of Being Little [String Quartet No. 1], premiered in October. He lives in New Hampshire.

Kim André Arnesen grew up in Trondheim, Norway and was a chorister in the Nidaros Cathedral.

He was educated at the University in Trondheim. Kim’s choral works have been performed all around the world, including Carnegie Hall, the White House, the opening of the new Statue of Liberty Museum, and at several festivals around the world. Kim is an elected member of the Norwegian Composers Society and is a House Composer at Boosey & Hawkes. www.kimarnesen.com

Paul John Rudoi is an award-winning choral entrepreneur.

His music is commissioned, performed, and published worldwide, and he has performed and recorded a wide range of music in professional ensembles including Seraphic Fire, The Santa Fe Desert Chorale, and Cantus. He is also the cofounder of “Consortio,” a website designed to make consortium-based commissioning accessible, efficient, and meaningful. Visit consortio.io for more information.

Roger Frisch’s early violin studies were with his father, longtime Associate Concertmaster of the Pittsburgh Symphony.

He earned performance degrees from Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and Indiana University and played 45 seasons with the Minnesota Orchestra, also serving as a longtime Associate Concertmaster.

Roger plays a 1776 Balistrieri violin.

ORCHESTRA VIOLIN 1 Roger Frisch Allison Ostrander VIOLIN 2 Elise Parker Carol Lebovic VIOLA Coca Bochonko Charles Krenner CELLO Laura Sewell BASS Greg Hippen HARP Min Kim RECORDER Clea Galhano NYCHELHARP Cheryl Paschke CONTRACTOR Chris Volpe

Paul holds degrees from the Hartt School and the University of Oregon. Visit pauljohnrudoi.com for more information.

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ABOUT VOCALESSENCE VocalEssence, called “one of the irreplaceable music ensembles of our time” by Dana Gioia, past chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts—and the choir that Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones says “sings magnificently”—impacts thousands of students, singers, and composers each year through its initiative programs, contests, and support for innovative art. VocalEssence was founded in 1969 and has debuted more than 300 commissions and world premieres. For more information, visit www.vocalessence.org.

PHILIP BRUNELLE Artistic Director and Founder Philip Brunelle, artistic director and founder of VocalEssence 51 years ago, is an internationally-renowned conductor, choral scholar and visionary. Philip has conducted symphonies, choral festivals and operas on six continents. He holds five honorary degrees, served 9 years as Vice President of IFCM (International Federation for Choral Music), and has been recognized for his commitment to choral music by the governments of Norway, Hungary, Sweden, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. In 2019 he was awarded the American Prize in Choral Conducting and in 2020 will be given the Honorary Member Award by the Society for American Music. His thoughts on music are at RenaissanceManpodcast.com. http://vocalessence.org/philipbrunelle

G. PHILLIP SHOULTZ, III Associate Conductor | Director of Learning and Engagement G. Phillip Shoultz, III, Associate Conductor | Director of Learning and Engagement, is known for fostering community and inspiring action among people of all ages and abilities. Phillip has conducted choirs and workshops across the United States and in Canada, England, Estonia, Finland, France, Mexico, Germany, and Russia. He has taught at the University of St. Thomas, the University of Minnesota, and Georgia State University and his work in the public schools garnered multiple Teacher of the Year honors. The winner of the 2015 ACDA Graduate Conducting Competition and an International Conductors’ Exchange Program Participant, Phillip believes in the transformative power of shared singing experiences. https://www.vocalessence.org/who-we-are/staff/g-phillip-shoultz-iii/

MARY JO GOTHMANN Accompanist Mary Jo Gothmann, joined VocalEssence as staff accompanist in 2015. She enjoys a varied career as a chamber musician, soloist, opera coach, and organist. Mary Jo performs frequently with the Minnesota Orchestra and Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and is a graduate of Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Program, University of Minnesota, New England Conservatory, and St. Olaf College. Mary Jo is the founder and Artistic Director of the Joya Chamber Music Series at Zion Lutheran Church in Anoka.

Photo © Bruce-Silcox

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VOCALESSENCE CHORUS

VOCALESSENCE ENSEMBLE SINGERS

The VocalEssence Chorus is an exceptional group of talented, committed singers from many walks of life. Equally at ease sharing the stage with famous guest artists such as Dessa and Sweet Honey In The Rock and budding young singers from across the metro, the VocalEssence Chorus embodies the tagline Together We Sing. https://www.vocalessence.org/who-we-are/performing-ensembles/vocalessence-chorus/

Minnesota is home to an international choral music gem—the VocalEssence Ensemble Singers. Declared by the Oxford Times (UK) as having “a blend that could— and should—be the envy of every choir in the business,” this 32-voice professional chorus is enjoyed by millions from Duluth, Minnesota to Shanghai, China. The VocalEssence Ensemble Singers are equally at ease premiering music by Pulitzer Prize winning composers as well as teen moms in our Lullaby Project. https://www.vocalessence.org/who-weare/performing-ensembles/vocalessence-ensemble-singers/

SOPRANO Amanda Allen AnnaLisa Anderson Barbara Anderson Brittany Beckmann Jessica Belt Ali Biatek Julia Braaten Sarah Brammer Jennica Date Judith Drobeck Kristina M. Guiffre Tommie Hollingsworth Rebecca Hovsepian Sally Jaffray Lisa Kapsner-Swift Jeanne A. Kenney Kartra Kohl Joy MacArthur Erin Meyer Lisa Moncur Christina Pederson Halina Pyzdrowski Leah Sovick Alexa Rosenbaum Cheryl E. Saunders Emma Schlabach Emma Schommer Susan Scofield LeAnn Stein Abbie Sulik Dana Terres

Melanie Tlusty Amanda Troolin Jennifer Vickerman†* Lauren Walker Laura Walklet Jacobsen Angela Weltman Hilary Wiek Dannika Wright ALTO Johanna Beaupre Jo M. Beld Judy Gaunt Yvonne Grover* Autumn Gurgel Marjorie Hakala Meghan Hanna Shannon Hart Dee Hein Kristin Howlett Jenny Kisner Jeenee Lee Brianna Merriman Rebecca Modert Kristi Mueller Ana Lucía Piedrahita Fernández Marty Raymond Miriam Sahouani Coral Sampson Katie Sandsmark

Erin Sandsmark Katrina Scandrett Sydney Schoeberle Forrest Schrader Johanna Smith Sandra Swami Laura Tanner Cassandra Warn Julia Welle Ayres Allie Wigley TENOR Steve Aggergaard* Jason Bendezu Larry J Brandts William Brueggemann Justin Clark Ryan Coopergard Ben Demaree Jason Kaiser Reagan Lee John Lee Andrew Leshovsky David Paese Jordan Ray Jackson Reese Josue Silva Ed Spohr Rabindra Tambyraja Barry Tikalsky Justin Vanni

BASS Robert Atendido Haskel Black Seth Colbert-Pollack David G. Erickson Matt Ferguson John R. Henrich Ward Jacobson Ben Kucera Mike LaFleur Ken McGurran Keon Miller Nicholas Mroczek* Declan O’Higgins Milo Oien-Rochat David Olson Brian D Ruhl Joshua Saunders Anthony Sims Trent Stenoien Timothy Supol Matthew Terhaar David Toht Liam Vance Christopher Wallace * Section leader † Board liaison

SOPRANO Jennifer Bevington Chloe Johnson JoAnna Johnson Myrtle Lemon Meghan Lowe Natalia Romero Arbelaez Margaret Sabin Mari Scott ALTO Robin Joy Helgen Anna George Meek Patty Kramer Marita J. Link Judith Melander Sadie Nelson Kristina Rodel Sorum Erin Smith Peters

TENOR David A. Beccue Ben Brunnette Anders Eckman† Michael Fairbairn Robert J. Graham Nicholas Mattsson William Pederson BASS Josh Conroy Jimmy Deignan Ben Dyleuth Joseph Ellickson David Gindra Erik Krohg Nathan PetersenKindem Dr. Michael P. Schmidt

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DONOR SPOTLIGHT: Dave & Linda Mona A PAIR OF COMMUNITY CONNECTORS BRING DECADES OF STRENGTH AND SUPPORT TO VOCALESSENCE

Dave and Linda Mona are major contributors to the civic fabric of the Twin Cities. Each a successful entrepreneur and devoted University of Minnesota alumnus in their own right, as a couple they respond with endless energy when challenged with projects like bringing high-profile sporting events to the area, the fight against cystic fibrosis, and building a new stadium for the Golden Gophers.

That special energy—a nonstop engagement with broad elements of community that ends up connecting them—is also familiar to everyone who knows VocalEssence founder Philip Brunelle. Philip might have sensed it in the Monas from afar, because nearly two decades ago, when he called Dave with an invitation to join the VocalEssence Board of Directors, the two men had never met. So how did the relationship between VocalEssence and its future board president blossom?

“About 20 years ago, Philip Brunelle called my office, convinced my assistant that I would know who he was, and set up a meeting a week later,” remembers Dave Mona.

“‘I want you to join my board of directors,’ Philip said to me.

‘I don’t know about your interest in music, but I know you are interested in marketing, and we need to do a better job of marketing ourselves. I know you can help us.’”

“What’s the challenge?” Mona asked him.

“Philip told me, ‘Here’s the deal: America is losing its singing voice and we need to do something about it before it’s too late.’” Brunelle detailed the important role that vocal music has played in our nation’s history and his vision for the role VocalEssence could have in keeping the vocal music tradition alive.

“I was hooked,” said Mona.

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Through the next two decades, the VocalEssence founder got to know both Dave Mona and his wife Linda. “Linda is Dave’s equal in energy and kindness,” said Philip Brunelle. “Her love of music equals his, and together, they are unstoppable in promoting the importance of singing for people of all ages. Their presence at any concert immediately lights up the room. And their fondness for things Norwegian makes them especially pleased that a Norwegian composer has been commissioned for this year’s Welcome Christmas concerts!”

The pairing of the Monas and VocalEssence was so harmonious that Dave Mona is now on his second term as board chair. “Dave has a light-hearted way of getting everyone involved,” said Philip Brunelle. “A board meeting with Dave at the helm means that everyone around the table is invited to contribute—he is interested in hearing everyone’s opinion and has worked especially hard to make space for more diverse voices.”

“We are connectors,” said Dave Mona of the couple’s role on the board, “and one of the benefits we can provide is that we know a lot of people in a lot of different areas, and we can envision disparate elements coming together to make something really good happen.”

As the years went by, the board made sure VocalEssence kept evolving. “The demographics of our audience, like those of many arts organizations, showed us we might not be reaching the younger or more diverse listeners in our community. We knew we needed to appeal to a broader audience to stay vital.”

VocalEssence recently expanded its efforts in this area, introducing programs like the Family Series and the new urban choir for high schoolers, VESOTA. “I’m thrilled at the success of our efforts to reflect the diversity in our community,” said Dave Mona. “Our staff is small but highly motivated, and I’m proud that in terms of both our music and our diversity we are making a difference locally, nationally, and even internationally.”

As always, he and Linda continue to spread the word. “Among people who have heard of it, VocalEssence has a reputation so bright it glows in the dark,” said Mona. “The problem is, not enough people are aware of the organization’s full scope. So much of the market is left to reach, which is a great problem and a great opportunity.”

“Philip Brunelle and G. Phillip Shoultz, III, both speak with knowledge and passion about the path ahead,” he said. “Linda and I believe that VocalEssence is one of the gems of our community and we are happy to have helped share that message over the past two decades.”

“…VocalEssence is one of the gems of our community and we are happy to have helped share that message over the past two decades.”

THANK YOU, VOCALESSENCE DONORS THE ENDOWMENT HONOR ROLL VocalEssence salutes the individuals and corporate and private foundations whose generosity and leadership sparked the creation of the Endowment Fund. This permanent fund was established in 1987 and is now valued at $3.5 million. Its interest income provides ongoing support to VocalEssence. We welcome new contributions to the Endowment Fund and extend our deepest appreciation to the following for their generous gifts.

Mrs. Fred C. Andersen* Athwin Foundation Carol A. Barnett Alice Baver* Ronald and Joyce Beauchane Warren and Donna Beck Judson Bemis Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Judy Blaseg and John Engelen Charlie Boone* and Carol Heen William and Margee Bracken David Brink* Lucile Brink Wayne* and Marilyn* Brock Elise Brunelle and Jeremy Greeff Philip and Carolyn Brunelle Ann and David* Buran Norman R. Carpenter* Cole Sewell Corporation Claire Colliander and Greg Steenson Colwell Industries Kip and Kathy Colwell Community Credit Company Dr. Susan and Dick Crockett Thomas Davies* Target Stores, Dayton’s and Mervyn’s by the Dayton Hudson Foundation Ernest and Mary Dorn Dan Dressen Katherine and Kent Eklund Exxon Corporation Jack and Cathy Farrell Robert B. Fering Gloria Freeman General Mills Foundation Robert* and Katherine Goodale Marion Goward Susan and Barry* Graceman Shelley Greenwood Jane D.* and James L.* Hall Margarette* and Charles Hann Terrance* and Ruth* Hanold David* and Mim Hanson Ann G. Harding Louise Heffelfinger* Lowell and Cay Shea Hellervik Jack and Linda Hoeschler The Hognander Foundation HRK Foundation A.D. (Bill)* and Betty* Hulings Douglas and Mary Jones William* and Suzanne Joyce Arthur and Martha* Kaemmer Katherine B. Andersen Fund of The Saint Paul Foundation

Garrison Keillor James* and Jane Riley-Koll Daniel and Constance Kunin Libby Larsen and James Reece Helmer* and Christine Larson Laura Jane Musser Fund Mary Sue Lindsay* Jean and Kenneth Linwick Patricia Lund* Herb and Corrine Lundberg Thomas* and Patti* Maetzold The MAHADH Fund of HRK Foundation Marbrook Foundation Kay and Mike McCarthy Walt McCarthy and Clara Ueland Robert and Polly McCrea Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Mancel* and Harriet* Mitchell Peter and Judy Mitchelson William and Julie Moyer Elizabeth Musser* David E. and Judy L. Myers Nash Foundation ± National Endowment for the Arts Glen* and Marilyn Carlson Nelson Alice Park Newman* Jeanne and Richard Patterson Donald* and Helen* Pellowe The Pine Wood Trust Harry Piper Foundation Jill and Richard Ragatz Burt Ross* Shelly Ross* Thomas and Lois Sando Michael and Shirley Santoro Sandra and Ivan* Schloff Richard and Kit Schmoker Ellen* and George J. Schulte John* and Marion* Etzwiler Shepherd Star Tribune/Cowles Media Company Richard* and Vivian* Stuck Bill* and Bryce* TenBroek Richard and Rosemary Thorsen Lynn and Carol Truesdell Jim Ulland Ruth and David Waterbury Doris A. Welty-Bury* Dorene and Alan Wernke Carl A. Weyerhaeuser Trust Frederick T. Weyerhaeuser Trust John Wheelihan E.M.* and Patricia* Whitacre Mrs. W. A. Wilson Bruce and JoAnn* Winslow Karen and John Wolff

PHILIP BRUNELLE FOUNDER’S SOCIETY The Philip Brunelle Founder’s Society recognizes those who make a provision for VocalEssence in their will or estate plans. The society is names in honor of our visionary founder, Philip Brunelle, who every day inspires the community to open their ears to new music from diverse cultures.

Philip and Carolyn Brunelle Ann Buran

Jon Cranney Charles Denny Art Kaemmer Nikki Lewis Mike McCarthy Dave and Linda Mona Alfred P. & Ann M. Moore Sheridan O’Keefe Gary and Pam Reierson Vern Sutton Jennifer Vickerman Mike and Donna Wolsted

CONTRIBUTOR’S CIRCLE VocalEssence gratefully acknowledges all those who made gifts between July 1, 2018 and August 31, 2019. Although we make every effort to ensure that our Honor Roll list is accurate and complete, we are capable of error. Please let us know if your name does not appear the way you prefer so we may correct it in the next listing. Please call us at 612-547-1473 to make a correction.

Thank you! ± Includes Matching Gift Contributions + Includes In-Kind Donations * In Remembrance

ENSEMBLE CLUB Gifts of $25,000 and more Aroha Philanthropies Best Buy Co., Inc. Philip and Carolyn Brunelle The Carlson Family Foundation ± Charles and Kathryn Cunningham Family Foundation Lucy Rosenberry Jones Charitable Trust Art and Martha* Kaemmer Fund of HRK Foundation Katherine B. Andersen Fund of The Saint Paul Foundation Nikki Lewis Kay and Mike McCarthy Robert and Polly McCrea Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation The McKnight Foundation Minnesota State Arts Board Judy and Peter Mitchelson Alfred P. & Ann M. Moore National Endowment for the Arts Philip and Katherine Nason Fund of The Saint Paul Foundation Sit Investment Associates Inc. Sons of Norway Target Foundation Margaret VB Wurtele Gifts of $10,000-$24,999 Best Buy Foundation Productivity, Inc., Greg and Lisa Buck

City of Saint Paul Cultural STAR Ecolab Foundation ± F. R. Bigelow Foundation David and Margene Fox Hellervik Fund of The Saint Paul Foundation The Hognander Foundation Jay and Rose Phillips Family Foundation Jerome Foundation Hubert Joly N. Judge* and Reatha Clark King Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation MAHADH Fund of HRK Foundation Mardag Foundation Medtronic Community Foundation ± Minnesota Monthly + The Saint Paul Foundation Thrivent Financial ± Wenger Foundation Xcel Energy Foundation Gifts of $5,000-$9,999 Andersen Corporate Foundation Ann and Gordon Getty Foundation Anna M. Heilmaier Foundation Warren and Donna Beck Carlson Companies Inc. Charles M. Denny, Jr. Hugh J. Andersen Foundation Leland T. Lynch and Terry Saario Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Minnesota Historical Society Peravid Foundation Douglas and Mary Platt Lois E. Quam and Arshad Mohammed Stocks Family Fund of the Catholic Community Foundation Target Corporation Thomson Reuters Lynn and Carol Truesdell The Wallin Foundation Gifts of $2,500-$4,999 Anonymous Aaron Copland Fund for Music, Inc. Mary Ann Aufderheide John and Sheila Bjorklund Wayne and Meg Gisslen Donald and Marion Hall Douglas and Mary Jones Knox Foundation Charlie and Anne Leck Glen* and Marilyn Carlson Nelson New Music USA Piper Jaffray & Co. ± RBC Foundation - USA G. Phillip and Michelle Shoultz, III Twin Cities Opera Guild Cody and Jacob Wolkowitz Gifts of $1,000-$2,499 Anonymous (2) Albrecht Family Foundation Ameriprise Financial ± Quentin Anderson Nancy Azzam Baker Investments LLC + Will and Margee Bracken McCrea Burns Group Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Barbara Burwell Margaret Chutich and Penny Wheeler John and Joan Colwell

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Dr. Susan and Dick Crockett Nathaniel and Victoria Davis Cy and Paula DeCosse Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation ExxonMobil Foundation ± Dan Fernelius and Taylor Putz Cathie Fischer Jack and Terry Forsythe Rick and Linda Glasgow Bill Hodder Jack and Linda Hoeschler Fund of The Saint Paul Foundation Thomas Hunt and John Wheelihan Joe and Cathy Kalkman Bert and Jane Kasiske Margaret V. and E. Robert* Kinney Don and Joann Leavenworth Edward* and Patricia Lindell Philip and Madeleine Lowry The Mauriel Family Foundation Paul and Lynne McDonough Joyce and Richard McFarland Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation David and Linda Mona Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation David E. and Judy L. Myers Jerry and Andrea Nelson Nancy and Richard Nelson Laura A. Kinkead and Richard P. Neuner Michael and Kathleen O’Keefe Paul and Abigail Pribbenow Pam Matson Reierson and Gary Reierson Remele Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Familia Robinson Foundation Cheryl E. Roberts Saunders Schmitt Music Company Estelle Quinn Sell Fred and Gloria Sewell Don Shelby Sue Shepard and Don Helgeson Ruth Spiegel and Brad McNaught Arturo Steely Glenda and Richard Struthers Summit Academy OIC Swedish Council of America Rabindra Tambyraja Paul and Carolyn Verret Jenny Wade matched by Piper Jaffray & Co. Andy and Katrina Wallmeyer Alan and Dorene Wernke Gifts of $500-$999 3M Foundation ± Dominick Argento* Kay and Ron Bach Ronald and Joyce Beauchane Penny Bond and Chuck Grimsrud Norlin and Carole Boyum Brandenburg Reetz Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Traci V. Bransford matched by Stinson LLP David* and Ann Buran Janet Carpenter Bruce and Ann Christensen John and Kathryn Colwell Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Jon Cranney and Katherine Ferrand Bill and Ruth Davini Scott and Vivian Donaldson Dan Dressen and Elisabeth Comeaux

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Milt and Jana Edgren Ann Eilbracht Thompson Norma Jean Falink and Henry Smith Ryan and Jenny French matched by Ameriprise Financial General Mills Foundation ± Global Minnesota Katherine Goodale David and Yvonne Grover David O. and Kristine Henderson matched by Ameriprise Financial Walter and Judith Hinck Phil and Laura Holst Kirsten Howe Samuel Ingram matched by Medtronic Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies ± Samuel and Sylvia Kaplan Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Glenn and Kartra Kohl Robert L. Lee and Mary E. Schaffner Walt McCarthy and Clara Ueland Mark Epsky and Mary Jane Melendez matched by General Mills Betty Myers John Nuechterlein and Dan Munson Joan B. Parsons Bill and Barbara Read John and Barbara Rice Sharon and Chuck Ritchie Scandia Foundation John Scheef Elizabeth Shipton David and Ann Smith LeAnn Stein and Jack Stamp Stinson LLP ± Frank Stubbs and Tom Lee Missy Staples Thompson and Gar Hargens Joanne Von Blon

CHORUS CLUB Gifts of $250-$499 Anonymous (4) Steve Aggergaard and Lana Rosario Peter and Mary Ellen Alden Andrew Alness Anton E. Armstrong, D.M.A. Baillon Family Foundation, Inc. Douglas M. and Carole M. Baker Giving Fund Ann Barkelew and James O’Hagan Michael Barone and Lise Schmidt Jo Beld and Tim Delmont Carol and Jeff Belz Larry J. Brandts Cheryl Brown Dorene J. Bruns Annabelle D. Bush Diana Carlson Linda Carlson Mary Lou Judd Carpenter Ted and Carol Cushmore Family Fund of The Minneapolis Foundation Ernest and Mary Dorn Steve and Judy Drobeck matched by Medtronic Jim and Liza Ervin Hope Esparolini Caron and Floyd Farmer Carolina Gustafson Ken and Suanne Hallberg

Dee and Wilfried Hein John and Robin Helgen Ron and Anne Hoffman Doug and Kerry Hoverson, Saint Thomas Academy matched by Ameriprise Financial Robert S. and Patricia A. Hoyt Novelli Jurado and Michelle Eng Chuck and Jill Koosmann Laurel Lapore Joy MacArthur and Peter Buckholtz matched by Prudential Financial James Miner Nick Mroczek Myers Family Fund of The Saint Paul Foundation Nick Nash and Karen Lundholm Susan Nicol James and Sonja Odland Richard and Deborah O’Gara Family Fund of The Minnesota Community Foundation Milo Oien-Rochat and Katharine Wood matched by 3M Foundation Paul Olson and Mark Baumgartner John Orbison and Holly MacDonald Prudential Financial Inc ± Marty and David Raymond John Haugen and Alicia Reeves matched by Johnson & Johnson Riverbridge Partners Jay and Barbara Rothmeier Randall Sayers and Martha Arneson Gale Sharpe Brent Stahl and Ellen Engstrom Bill and Sara Stout David D. Stricker Thomas H. Swain Parker and Albert Trostel Jennifer Vickerman Philip and Jane Wade David and Ruth Waterbury Elissa and Paul Weller Lynn Hilary Westrom David K. Whitney Michael and Barbara Wigley Mike and Donna Wolsted Zabin Charitable Fund at the Boston Foundation Gifts of $100-$249 Anonymous (7) Mary Adair and Gerald Jorgenson Akosua Addo William* and Suzanne Ammerman Christian and Barbara Anderson Clifford and Nancy Anderson Rolan E. Anderson Steven Anderson and Barbara RandolphAnderson Scott Appelwick and Ed Sootsman Thomas Barber David A. Beccue and Mark J. McKone Bruce W. and Paula M. Becker Jennifer and Ivan Beres Roy and Nadine Berg Madeline Betsch Jeff and Lindsey Bina Tom Blanck and Linda Bjorklund Blandin Foundation ± Brian and Claudia Boysen Tony Branch matched by Medtronic Phil Bratnober

Elise G. Brunelle and Jeremy Greeff Paul and Jane Brunelle Ginny Buran and Dwayne Cody Phyllis Byers Oscar and Valerie Carlson Yvonne Cheek matched by Blandin Foundation David and Wendy Coggins Jan Parsons Colliton David Colwell Marcus and Joan Cox Darlene A. Diesch Bruce and Kathie Dormanen Amy Edgren Mark and Chelli Esser matched by Voya Financial Gerald Foley Samuel Fouts Gloria Freeman Jennifer Funkhouser GIA Publications Inc. Dr. Stanley M. and Luella G. Goldberg Alex Goodmanson Google Inc. ± Susan Graceman Robert J. Graham II Tim Graham Jean Gray John and Jan Gray John Greely and Annette Bruscino Joel Grover and Amy Thorpe Autumn Gurgel Judith Hadler Richard and Sandra Haines Dob and Janis Hardy Shannon Hart Bill and Helen Hartfiel Mary Heller Dr. John and Sarah Henrich David and Susan Henry Ruth Hiland Arthur and Donna Hogenson Paul Magnuson and Elaine Holmen Dr. Gordon* and Nita Howell Penny Hunt David Hunter Susan Marie Swanson and Tom Hysell IBM Corporation ± Ward Jacobson and Stephanie Johnson Sally Jaffray Grace Jaggers Nicole James Gilchrist matched by Thrivent Financial Hawona Janzen Adam and JoAnna Johnson Josie R. Johnson Robert and Sigrid Johnson Robert T. Johnson Ted and Amy Johnson matched by Ameriprise Financial Lisa Kapsner-Swift Aileen and Kim Kasper John Klein and Maria Pastoor William Lackey and Trevor Sannes Paul A. Laederach Laurie Lang Libby Larsen and James Reece Mark and Susan Larson Jeenee Lee Diana J. Leland Allan and Jackie Lotsberg AJ Lund Sarah Lutman and Robert Rudolph Charles and Hertha Lutz

Judy and Don Mackenzie Gary and Renee Macomber David and Stephanie Maggitt Katryn Conlin and Ben Manning Ray and Elsie Martin Sally Martineau Jan Mattox Ian and Joyce McIntosh Jon and Joy McIver Anna George Meek and Matthew Gladue Rebecca and Keith Modert Jonathan and Martha Morgan Judy Morgan Kristi Mueller Joyce and John Myers Sadie and Kyle Nelson Donald and Gerda Nightingale Alan Onberg Marri M. Oskam Joseph and Clara Osowski William and Suzanne Payne Jim and Donna Peter Nicholas Peter Nathan Petersen-Kindem Jackie Prince Brad and Linda Quarderer matched by IBM Corporation Sharon Radman The Rae Mackenzie Group Lois Rand Kim and Chris Rodel David and Kathleen Rothenberger Brian D. and Barbara Ruhl Margaret and Matthew Sabin Coral Sampson Debra Samuelson Hal and Judy Schneebeck

Paul and Camille Schroeder Jeff Rabkin and Susan M. Scofield Robert and Virginia Seybold Craig and Mariana Shulstad William and Marcelyn Smale Schele Smith Gerald and Roberta Sognesand Carol Christine Southward Delbert Swanson and Elizabeth Starbuck Judy Orr Stinson Susan Stuart Timothy Supol Ward Green and Sandra Swami Timothy C. Takach and Jocelyn Hagen Laura and Matt Tanner Jack and Mary Taylor D. Jean Thomson Joe and Amanda Timmer David Toht and Rebecca Anderson Brandee Tran matched by UnitedHealth Group United Technologies Âą William and Karen Van Schyndel Voya Financial Âą Jim Waters and Jackie Henning Tom and Diane Wentz Ted and Nancy Weyerhaeuser Hilary Wiek Allie Wigley Dr. Preston and Sharon Williams RADM and Mrs. Ray C. Witter Dannika Wright Gifts up to $99 Anonymous (8) Rose Adams Richard and Cindy Alness

Amazon Smile Lucille H. Amis Libby Anderson Ray and Patricia Anderson Richard O. Anderson, MD Jacqueline Andrews Patricia Arntz Linda Aronson Martha Arradondo Robert Atendido Marcia Avner Cynthia Balyk Carol Barnett Hazel and Carol A. Barnett Karen Barstad Mary K. Baumann and Will Hopkins Patricia Baxter-Walker Mary Beamish Bill and Jill Beaupre Bernie and Patricia Beaver Glynn Behmen Stephen and Mary Belden Becca Bellman Gavin Berg and Joe Ruggiero Linda Bergherr Donald and Joyce Besser Steve and Anita Beste Jason and Ali Biatek Steven and Pam Bjoraker Ann Carol Blom Sorum Mark Blomquist Carla Blumberg Miriam Bock Anne Boisclair-Fahey Carole Bolles Christi and Rolf Bolstad Judy Bond

Patrick and Wendy Born Rita Bourne Jeff Bowar Dawn Bowden Christine Bownik-Meyer Julia Braaten Pamela and Steve Branlund Elaine Bransford Josh Brockbank Jenaye Brown Joe and Martha Brown Christopher Brunelle and Serena Zabin Sharon and Tazha Buckner Tara Buckner Steve and Karen Burger Kristin A. Burnett Mike and Susan Burnett Rhodessa Burt Three Square - Brian Burton Brad Bystrom Peter and Joan Calott Marjorie Carlson Terryl Carlson Louise Carpentier Julie Carr Marjorie Carr Patricia Carver Andy and Robin Cerio Kathie and Frank Cerra Mary Anne Chalkley Katie Channing Cynthia Chapman Cheryl Chatman Constance Chen and Patrick Johnson John Christiansen David and Joan Ciminski Garfield and Sharon Clark

Did you know? Philip Brunelle also is Organist and Choirmaster at Plymouth Church Many Hearts, One Song Many Hands, One Church Fantastic music and seeking justice for all are parts of the continuing legacy of Plymouth Church. Come to celebrate, listen, see, act!

We welcome everyone to Plymouth Church in Minneapolis for readings, concerts and Sunday worship services at 9 and 11 a.m.

Plymouth Congregational Church

Proud to be the home of VocalEssence 1900 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis 612/871-7400 www.plymouth.org Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

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Sandra Clasen Lloyd Clausen Allan Cloutier Isabel Clua Elizabeth Cogswell Edward and Elizabeth Colburn Ralph and Ruth Colby Rita Commodore Helen Conway Ryan Coopergard Joanna Cortright Bethany Cox Lawrence Cramer Edward and Diane Curtiss Edward and Betsy Cussler Barry Cytron Tucker and Carolyn Dahl Paul Dalton Britta Dass Jennica Date John Dell Elizabeth Demario Terry and Susan* Diebold Dennis and Nickie Dillon Susan Doffing Elizabeth Dokken Kate and Douglas Donaldson Christine Drotning David Dufresne Richard Duncan Sally Dunn Anders Eckman and Aaron Williamson matched by Ameriprise Financial Richard and Carol Eick Joseph Ellickson Ralph and Debbie Estes Connie Evingson Brian and Ann Farrell Barbara Feehan Matt Ferguson Judith Florine Kathryn Foley matched by Medtronic Bruce and Deb Folken Roger Foster Rick and Katie Fournier Lori Ann Fouts Jon Fraatz and Ella Vincent Karl Fredrickson Gloria Freeman Ian and Nancy Frykman David Gardiner Becky Gaunt Walter Gegner Megan Gelhar Paul and Mona Gerike Rachel Gibbons David Gilyard David Gindra John and Joanne Gordon Mary Jo Gothmann Jerald Graetz William and Jeanne Grandy Roger Greenberg Kelly Griffin Shari and Mitch Grunes Kristina M. Guiffre Theresa Guthrie Roy and Leslie Hakala Alex Halverson Meghan Hanna Elaine Hanson Marylee Hardenbergh Annette Hardy

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Fannie Harrell Catherine Haselbauer William Heier Jane Hensen Carla Hibbison Rachel Hickok Harrison Hintzsche Mark and Ellie Hodkinson Kristine Holmgren Mary Honstead Arthur Horowitz Kris Horton Elizabeth Horvitz Rebecca Hovsepian Jean Howell Michael and Kristin Howlett Linda Hucke Ross Huelster Dr. Warren Huff Kendra Hyland Terry Irish Richard Jackson Kathleen Jacobson Pamela Jakes Judith Jaskowiak Allison Jensen James P. Johnson Lauren Johnson Lonaile Johnson Ward and Ann Johnson Kim William Jones Kenneth and Patricia Kangas Mary Kaphings Joan Kark Nicole Kaufman Anne Kaufmann Mary Kelley Jean Kennedy Nancy Kent Anika Kildegaard Tim Killeen Jan Kimes Ted and Jenny Kisner Vicki Klima Nathan and Julia Knoll matched by Thrivent Financial Cynthia Knudson Gillian Koch Kristin Kooiker Kathleen Krishnan Erik Krohg Ryan LaBoy Charles Vogel and Jane Ladky Milton Larson Philip and Joann Larson Tracy R. LaVere Jan Leclair Elaine H. Lee Henry and Miriam Lee Reagan Lee Theodore and Kathryn Lee Peter and Jane Lefferts Liberty Diversified International Stephen and Nancy Lindquist Ken* and Jean Linwick Brenda Lisenby Linda Lorenz Meghan Lowe Judy Lund Charles Batko and Kathy Lundberg Tom and Margie Lundberg Walker MacSwain Paul and Beatrice Magee Marion Mahoney

Ann Manning Gary and Susan Martland Krista Mathews Nicholas R. Mattsson Thomas and Barbara McClellan Helen McEvoy-Freese Bernard McGarrigle Cynthia McGill Anne McKinsey Kathleen McLaughlin Abigail McLean Thomas and Judith McClain Melander Velia Melrose Charles and Karna Mikkelson Faith Miller Judith Miller Kay Miller Marion Dwyer Miller Maria Mitchell Craig and Judy Moen Lisa Moncur Walter and Virginia Moore Lynn Morgenthaler Richard and Karol Morton Michael Mulcahy Charles Greenman and Bonnie Mulligan Nancy Narigon Jim and Merilu Narum Jesse Nelson Jane Nichols Laurits and Mary Ellen Nielsen Susan O. Nyhammer Andrea Oien Patricia Okaya David Olson matched by United Technologies Sarah Olson Emily Olson de Alvarez David Paese Katherine Panciera matched by Google, Inc. Park Nicollet Foundation, Beth Warner Deborah Pearson Bill Pederson Eric and Christina Pederson Perry Family Carol Ann Petersen Daniel and Nancy Peterson Ronald and Kathy Peterson Toni D. Pettiford Robert and Sue Petzel James Phelps Samantha Phillippe Barbara Pierson Laura Plasencia Lisa Pomroy Truman and Noelyn Porter Becky Poss Jonathan Posthuma Sharon Presley Jerri and Mike Pumroy Lynn Purdue Shira Rabkin Wendy Rahn Evelyn Swanson* and Marjorie Ramgren James and Susan Ramlet Elisa Rasmussen Lisa Reed Jim Reininger Kathleen Richards Michael Hvidsten and Rebekah Richards Dorothy Richburg Herbert and Joan Ringheim Lorraine Rintala

John and Barbara Risken Carol Rosenbaum Douglas and Elizabeth Roy Susan Runge John Rupp Mel and Irene Sahyun Warren Salveson Kay and Peter Sammond Katie Sample Karen Sandberg Stephen and Sharli Schaitberger Jeffrey Schneider Bill Schrickel Carl and Dana Schroeder Ann Schrooten and Dawn Wieczorek Mari and Michael Scott Gary Seim and Lee Pfannmuller Emily Shapiro Kathleen Shumway Bryan and Colleen Simmons Jeff and Maxine Skold Jeffrery and Betty Skold Thomas and Kathryn Skold Shari Sloane Hugh Smeltekop Johanna Smith Robert C. Smith Stephen and Cynthia Snyder Angeline Sorenson Kristina Rodel Sorum Sharon Spear Carol Stahlhut Carter Noelle Starr Del Steckler Marilee Stevens Gary and Barbara Strandemo Marilyn J. Sundberg Barbara Swain Sharon Swiglo Judy Takkunen James Talen Dale Talley Susan Tasa Rosita Tendall Dana Terres Kaye and Craig Thoeny Dr. Margaret Thomas Mary Thomas Carol Thompson Walfred and Priscilla Thoreen Caren Timmerman Bardyl and Anne Bell Tirana Katherine R. Tonn Eisinger Deborah and Geert Touw Bill and Amanda Troolin Carol Uecker UnitedHealth Group Âą Adam Van der Sluis Karen Vinje Michael Walsh Virginia Ward Clifton and Bettye Ware Daniel and Cassandra Warn Charles and Ware Washam Stacey and Jeff Wedding John and Jeanne Weingart Joe and Margaret Jane Weissenborn Kenneth and Barbara Weldon Robert Wetzler Carole White Carole Whitney and Craig Carlson Cynthia Wicker Lois Willand Gregory Wilsey

Michael Winikoff Mary Wittenbreer Richard & Nancy Wyatt M. Wycoff Wilson and Gayle Graham Yates Mary Young Janis Zeltins Louise Ziegler Daniel Zielske Penny and Mark Ziessman Clare Zupetz

SPECIAL TRIBUTES VocalEssence is honored by the many gifts received in memory, appreciation, and celebration of friends and family. The following tributes were made between July 1, 2018 and August 31, 2019. If you wish to make a gift in tribute, please call 612-547-1473.

In honor of the 50th Anniversary of VocalEssence Kip and Kathy Colwell Elise Brunelle and Jeremy Greeff Nick Nash and Karen Lundholm In memory of Millicent Lydia Addo Akosua Addo In honor of Ella and Ruby Anderson Karen Barstad In honor of Mary Archer Gary and Pam Reierson In memory of Rosalind Artison-Koenning Gloria Freeman In honor of Mary Ann Aufderheide Sarah Lutman and Rob Rudolph In honor of Kaela Bader Jerri and Mike Pumroy In honor of Jo Beld Jon Fraatz and Ella Vincent In memory of Alan Berg Roy and Nadine Berg In honor of Nancy F. Boxall Jon Cranney and Katherine Ferrand In memory of Ernest Brandts Larry Brandts In honor of Carolyn Brunelle David and Ruth Waterbury In honor of Philip Brunelle Peter and Mary Ellen Alden Ralph and Debbie Estes David and Margene Fox Robert Wetzler In honor of Philip Brunelle and the 50th Year John and Joan Colwell

In honor of Philip Brunelle’s Birthday John and Joan Colwell Dan Dressen and Beth Comeaux Pat and Bob Hoyt Susan and Herb Nyhammer In honor of Philip Brunelle for Valentine’s Day Carolyn Brunelle In honor of Sharon Buckner Tara Buckner In honor of Tracey, Tara, and Tazha Buckner Sharon Buckner

In memory of David Hanson Philip and Carolyn Brunelle Ann Buran In memory of Tom Heller Ann Buran Mary Heller In memory of Dorothy Jean Hoffman Ronald and Anne Hoffman In memory of Nicholas Janzen Hawona Janzen In memory of Annie Lou Johnson Kristin Burnett

In memory of Ruth Burger Bob and Sig Johnson

In honor of Alex Jones Kim William Jones

In honor of Cassie M. Burns Riverbridge Partners

In honor of Dr. Art Kaemmer David Whitney

In memory of Jerome Carlson Ann Buran Penny and Mark Ziessman

In memory of Martha H. Kaemmer Philip and Carolyn Brunelle Ann Buran David Whitney

In memory of Ruby and Herb Cohen Steve and Judy Drobeck In memory of Louis and Christine Commodore Rita Commodore In memory of Thurston H. Davini Bill and Ruth Davini In honor of Drew Davis Jennifer Vickerman In honor of Ensemble Singers Ann Schrooten In memory of Jerry Fischer Cathie Fischer In honor of Lori Ann Fouts Sam Fouts In honor of Sam Fouts Lori Ann Fouts In memory of Kathy Gagnon Maria Mitchell In memory of Lauretta Graetz Jerald Graetz In memory of Grandma Bernice Kristine Holmgren In memory of Virginia Greenman Charles Greenman and Bonnie Mulligan In memory of Idella Howelton Grigsby Toni Pettiford In memory of Jane Dayton Hall Ronald and Anne Hoffman In memory of Margarette Hann Ann Buran

In memory of N. Judge King Ph.D. Reatha Clark King In honor of Nikki Lewis Madeline Betsch In memory of Ronald Lewis Clifford and Nancy Anderson Jacqueline Andrews Bernie and Patricia Beaver Madeline Betsch Carole Bolles Philip and Carolyn Brunelle Ann Buran Mike and Susan Burnett Peter and Joan Calott Terryl Carlson Edward and Elizabeth Colburn Ed and Betsy Cussler Tucker and Carolyn Dahl Hope Esparolini David and Margene Fox Ian and Nancy Frykman John and Joanne Gordon William and Jeanne Grandy Ward and Ann Johnson Anne Kaufmann Charles Vogel and Jane Ladky Peter and Jane Lefferts Judy Lund Marion Mahoney Ann Manning Ray and Elsie Martin Velia Melrose William and Suzanne Payne Dan and Nancy Peterson Ronald and Kathy Peterson Ken and Katie Searl Stephen and Cynthia Snyder Sharon Spear Bill and Sara Stout Richard and Glenda Struthers Marilyn Sundberg Kaye and Craig Thoeny Jean Thomson Deborah and Geert Touw

David and Ruth Waterbury Richard and Nancy Wyatt In memory of Don Mellem Bruce and Deb Folken In honor of David Myers Paul and Abigail Pribbenow In memory of Miriam L. Parsons Janet Colliton In memory of Gene Perry Jean Linwick In memory of Irene Lillian Perry Thomas Perry Jeff and Angie Pickering In honor of Nathan Petersen-Kindem’s 40th Birthday Carol Ann Petersen In memory of Joyce Presley Sharon Presley In memory of Joyce Byers Reed William and Barbara Read In memory of Adrienne (Winky) Rice Dob and Janis Hardy In memory of Judith Ann (Freeman) Rodel Kim and Chris Rodel In memory of Linda Schaefer Carol Stahlhut Carter In honor of Heidi Schleif Brenda Lisenby In honor of Derek, Christine, Henry, Reese, Tatum, and Jane Schoettle Jean Thomson In memory of June Scofield Susan Scofield In memory of Elizabeth Shelver Joyce McIntosh On behalf of G. Phillip Shoultz, III and Michelle Shoultz Cynthia and Daniel Kapke In honor of G. Phillip Shoultz, III and Michelle Shoultz Brian and Claudia Boysen In honor of Singers in Accord Jan Leclair In honor of Spelman College Glee Club Anne McKinsey In honor of Gary Strandemo Barbara Strandemo In memory of Arlene Swain Barbara Swain

2019-2020 Season

Page 45

LET’S FILL THE HALL! Join those above!

Just $25 sponsors a student’s seat at Orchestra Hall!

Seats can be sponsored at the VocalEssence table in the lobby today or online at vocalessence.org/donate In memory of Len Takkunen Judy Takkunen

In honor of VocalEssence Staff Carolyn Brunelle

In memory of Bill TenBroek Ann Buran

In honor of Katrina and Andy Wallmeyer’s Anniversary Cynthia Balyk

In memory of Evelyn Thomson Nancy Azzam Ann Buran, Ginny Buran, and Dwayne Cody In memory of Gladys Troutman Cheryl Chatman In honor of Nancy Thurber Amy Edgren

Page 46

2019-2020 Season

In memory of John T. Westrom Rose Adams Andersen Corporate Foundation Philip and Carolyn Brunelle Brian Burton Marjorie Carlson John Dell Elizabeth Demario Kate and Douglas Donaldson Scott and Vivian Donaldson

John and Jan Gray R. Jean Gray Elaine Hanson Hugh J. Andersen Foundation Art Kaemmer Laurie Lang Philip and Joann Larson Michael Mulcahy Nick Nash and Karen Lundholm Park Nicollet Foundation, Beth Warner Deborah O’Gara Lynn Purdue Herbert and Joan Ringheim Douglas and Elizabeth Roy The Saint Paul Foundation John Scheef

Jeffrey and Betty Skold Jeff and Maxine Skold Thomas and Kathryn Skold Shari Sloane Hugh Smeltekop Angeline Sorenson Delbert Swanson and Elizabeth Starbuck Carol Uecker Paul and Carolyn Verret Stacey and Jeff Wedding John and Jeanne Weingart Lynn Westrom Mary Young In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Sealve and Loveland White Fannie Harrell

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