Concordia’s music program returns in strong form with the Fall Choral Concert, featuring the ensembles of Men’s Chorus and Donne Di Canto. 

The concert will be bringing a variety of new music under the direction of Dr. Clarissa Shan, a longtime vocal coach with Concordia’s Music Department, and the new director of both ensembles. This collection includes pieces such as “Light of a Clear Blue Morning”, a choral arrangement of a song originally performed by Dolly Parton, a musical arrangement of The Lord’s Prayer, and several other pieces. 

“I chose pieces that signify hope and light even in dark times,” said Shan. “The piece that I feel captures the theme most completely is ‘Light of a Clear Blue Morning.’” 

The talented vocalists have worked hard; both ensembles overcame challenges to bring their art to a wider crowd. 

“I had to go into isolation for 10 days, so not being able to rehearse with the ensembles at first was certainly a challenge,” said senior Alex Allsing, the president of Men’s Chorus. “The amount of preparation outside of rehearsal has definitely had to change for me and everyone else.”

“The timeframe in which both choirs had to prepare for this concert has changed,” said Shan, “Because of COVID, we have had to cancel our annual fall retreat which would have added many hours of rehearsal time for both choirs. “

The leadership of the ensembles have been working to keep their members supported and prepared as best as possible despite the trying times. This has meant a lot of extra work on the part of the presidents of both groups, and commendable commitment on their parts.

“I’ve been learning the parts to the pieces on piano, so that if any of the guys need a recording to practice with, I can send one over to them.,” said Allsing.

“As president, I try to help keep everyone organized where I can,” said senior Kimberly Boland, president of Donne Di Canto. “I also try to help Dr. Shan where I can. I’ve been in Donne Di Canto for four years now, so I know how things are generally run. I just try to help out where I can and set an example by being focused and prompt in rehearsals.”

Shan was full of praise toward her students and is confident that they are fully ready for the task ahead. “The singers in Donne Di Canto and Men’s Chorus have worked hard this semester to prepare for our Fall Concert despite the obstacles that COVID presented,” said Shan. “I’m excited to share our work together at our Fall Concert!”

The Fall Choral Concert will be taking place in the CU Center on Sat., Oct. 23, at 7 p.m.. Tickets are available at https://www.cui.edu/arts/music/events, and are free for Concordia students.

Tags: Men's Chorus, Donne Di Conto

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