Lions and Tygres and the Birds and the Bzzzz
A colorful and entertaining concert of music about the smaller creatures in our world. The centerpiece is Cecelia McDowell’s three-movement work, Bird of Time. Other pieces include Abbie Betinis’ Songs of Smaller Creatures, depicting butterflies and buzzing bees; late Renaissance composer Orazio Vecchi’s White and Gentle Swan; Dello Joio’s The Bluebird; Michael Larkin’s setting of Wiliam Blake’s The Tygre; Tavener’s The Lamb, and an appearance of Rossini’s Cat Duet!
This captivating performance transforms the concert stage into a vibrant sonic ecosystem, inviting listeners to observe the natural world through a musical lens. The repertoire bridges centuries of choral tradition, seamlessly shifting from the intricate polyphony of the late Renaissance to the bold textures of contemporary masterworks. Audiences will experience a profound emotional arc that mirrors the diverse temperaments of nature itself. The program balances deep, spiritual introspection with moments of soaring lyricism and vivid, text-driven storytelling.
As the musical narrative unfolds, it challenges listeners to appreciate both the delicate fragility and the raw, untamed power of the animal kingdom. Hauntingly minimalist textures provide moments of quiet reflection, while fiery, rhythmic energy drives the more intense movements forward. The evening ultimately culminates in a celebration of theatrical wit and playfulness, ensuring a dynamic experience that balances high artistry with lighthearted charm.