WMU choirs showcase diverse choral repertoire

KALAMAZOO--Three Western Michigan University choral ensembles--University Chorale, Collegiate Singers and Cantus Femina--will present a free concert showcasing diverse choral genres and styles at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26, in the Dalton Center Recital Hall.

Centerpieces of the program range from folksong classics to modern masses. The University Chorale will perform Arvo Part's 1989 "Magnificat," written for the choir of the restored Berlin Cathedral. This composition is a shining example of the "mystic minimalism" that defined and captivated choral music throughout the late 20th century. The Collegiate Singers will close the concert with Sarah Hopkin's "Past Life Melodies," a distinct work involving vocal drones, harmonic overtone singing and melodies inspired by Aboriginal chant. The concert also will feature sacred and secular works by Brahms, Chesnokov, Verdi, Victoria and Szymko.

Admission is free, but seating is limited. Doors open at 2:35 p.m. For more information, visit wmich.edu/music or contact Meredith Bradford, concerts assistant, at @email or (269) 387-4678.