The Inland Master Chorale begins its 40th Anniversary Season with “Songs of the Underground Railroad” on October 19 and 20 at First United Methodist Church in Redlands.
The concert celebrates the music that provided solace for enslaved African Americans yearning for freedom. Recent compositions by Californian composers will be featured.
“The Journey of Harriet Tubman,” written by Dr. Ronald Kean in 2017, is performed with a film to enhance the musical story about the famous abolitionist who led people to freedom via the Underground Railroad. Soprano soloist Jennifer Sparks performs the Harriet Tubman role. The work incorporates well known spirituals including “Go Down, Moses,” “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” and “Follow the River.”
Dr. Kean will deliver a pre-concert talk 15 minutes before each performance. He recently retired from from Bakersfield College after 30 years of teaching in California.
Kirke Mechem’s “Songs of the Slave” is based on material from his opera John Brown, written in 2008. Baritone soloist Bradley Franklin, a University of Redlands Schools of Music graduate, will give voice to the words of Frederick Douglass.
The Chorale is directed by Dr. Joseph Modica, Interim Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and Director of the School of Music at the University of Redlands. Assistant Director Anna DeLeon is Director of Choirs at Grand Terrace High School. Accompanist is Sophie Tait.
Concert tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door and $10 for students and children. Season tickets are $75. Children under five are not admitted. Tickets are available at the door, at www.inlandmasterchorale.org, or by phone, 909-798-4462.
The Chorale’s 2019-20 season continues with Home for the Holidays on December 14-15; Vox Populi: Songs of Our World on March 21-22; and Carmina Burana on May 17.