Women's choral ensemble "Sirens" to perform Songs of the Sea at UPEI
On Friday, January 16 at 7:30 pm, the UPEI Music Department Recital Series continues with the women's choral ensemble "Sirens" with Songs of the Sea.
Songs of the Sea includes repertoire that combines themes of loss, remembrance, purification, mythology, and folklore. During the first half of the program, "Sirens" will guide its audience through the loss of a loved one at sea - from departure to death, through grief to acceptance, haunting harmonies, and seamless movement will create a stirring set. The second portion of the concert examines the role of the sea as a source of purification and rebirth, while exploring its unknown depths.
Repertoire will include works by contemporary and classical composers. Featured are beautiful settings of Christina Rossetti texts by Steven Chatman, Allan Bevan, and Eleanor Daley. Arrangements of well-known spirituals and folksongs include: Wade in the Water and Frobisher Bay. Classical works to be performed are Lili Boulanger's Les Sirènes, Gustav Holst's Hymn to the Waters, and Samuel Barber's To Be Sung on the Water. "Sirens" will be joined by pianist Stephanie Cole for several pieces.
Named after the singing femmes fatales of Greek mythology, "Sirens" is a self-directed women's choral ensemble committed to fostering the development of choral music through performance and community involvement. Since its formation in November of 2012, "Sirens" has produced four full-length concert programs, while maintaining a busy schedule performing at numerous community concerts, services, and community events and fundraisers. The group has developed a strong following of supporters and has been lauded for its pure tone quality, sensitive musicality, and tight ensemble. "Sirens" is the recent recipient of a grant from the PEI 2014 Sesquicentennial Public Arts Program that was administered by the PEI Council of the Arts. Members include: Alli Blom, Annette Campbell, Suzanne Campbell, Andrea Ellis, Jennifer Gillis, Allison Kelly, Kelsea McLean, and Mary-Claire Sanderson.
Tickets for the UPEI performance may be purchased at the door, online at http://upeirecitals10.bpt.me, or in advance by calling (902) 566-0507. Tickets are $15 / $10 for seniors and students. The concert's storm date is Saturday, January 17.
