April 11, 2008
Essence of Joy – March 29, 2008
To
hear the wonderfully talented Penn State vocal ensemble “Essence of
Joy” is indeed to experience joy. This is one well-trained choir,
because it has gorgeous tone balance and breath control and yet is
spirited and exuberant. The intermingled parts give it a perfect blend.
Kudos to director Tony Leach!
The program by African-American composers began with the lovely “Hear My Prayer” and continued with sophisticated arrangements of traditional spirituals as well as original compositions, both sacred and secular. I especially enjoyed the three Latin pieces, which were dramatic and moving. The Tribulation Suite, which comprised an arrangement of four traditional spirituals by M. Roger Holland II, had a changing cast of talented soloists, each of whom was well-chosen for his or her part. I particularly enjoyed “Wade in the Water”, a lively song featuring a whole roster of soloists. Another Holland piece, “Just for Me,” had beautiful, smooth harmony and a particularly outstanding soloist.
The program by African-American composers began with the lovely “Hear My Prayer” and continued with sophisticated arrangements of traditional spirituals as well as original compositions, both sacred and secular. I especially enjoyed the three Latin pieces, which were dramatic and moving. The Tribulation Suite, which comprised an arrangement of four traditional spirituals by M. Roger Holland II, had a changing cast of talented soloists, each of whom was well-chosen for his or her part. I particularly enjoyed “Wade in the Water”, a lively song featuring a whole roster of soloists. Another Holland piece, “Just for Me,” had beautiful, smooth harmony and a particularly outstanding soloist.
The
last part of the program was full of upbeat songs of thankfulness,
delivered not only vocally but with lots of clapping and swaying. The
spirit was truly infectious, and when the choir as it exited filled the
sides of the sanctuary and shook audience members’ hands, there were
smiles aplenty in the audience. It was a remarkable and memorable
performance, and we hope to see “Essence of Joy” back in our Guest
Artist Series in a few years.