Minnesota choral music wouldn't be the same without VocalEssence
Conductor Philip Brunelle believes that choral music is strong in Minnesota because of the numerous opportunities available to singers. Having more than 200 local composers doesn't hurt either.
"We are a rich and wonderful area for choral music because of these people," Brunelle told MPR News host Tom Weber. They talked in the Maud Moon Weyerhaeuser studio at MPR's William H. Kling Public Media Center along with 16 members of the professional choral group VocalEssence.
VocalEssense joined MPR News for their annual hour of songs that range from the very good to the very bad.
Brunelle also spoke about upcoming performances, including one leading up to the Super Bowl with actress and singer Idina Menzel.
Create a More Connected Minnesota
MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.
Below is the list of music from the program:
Wishes and Candles, Stephen Paulus
Beautiful Star, Libby Larsen
Tempus Adest Floridum (Good King Wenceslas), Olli Kortekangas
Three versions of O Little Town of Bethlehem
Hark! Harold the Angel Sings
Gone to the Land of Santa Claus
God's Christmas Tree
Away in a Manger, John Rutter
Angels Hov'ring 'Round, Carol Barnett
What Month Was Jesus Born In? David Morrow