Event

Light & Love

Spring comes early to Portland as the 130 member Portland Symphonic Choir presents Light & Love, a very special concert celebrating renewal, relationships, and the gift of song, Featuring Morten Lauridsen's Nocturnes (Light), and Eric Whitacre's 5 Hebrew Love Songs (Love), the music of Light & Love taps into the myriad human experiences of light - both physical and spiritual - and celebrates the depths of connection between lovers.

PROGRAM:
Nocturnes - Morten Lauridsen
Hymn to the Creator of Light - John Rutter
3 Sacred Songs - Josef Rheinberger
5 Hebrew Love Songs - Eric Whitacre
Village Wedding - John Tavener
Magnificat - Rene Clausen

WHAT'S NOTABLE ABOUT THIS CONCERT:
Internationally acclaimed composer and Pacific Northwest native Morten Lauridsen is known as "the only American composer in history who can be called a mystic."

John Rutter's Hymn to the Creator of Light celebrated the birth of influential 20th century Anglican composer Herbert Howells. The work reflects nearly 500 years of music and spirituality, an integrates stylistic references to Howells' music.

Josef Rheinberger composed over 200 works in a career spanning more than 45 years. He was fascinated by ancient music, which had a profound effect on his choral compositions.

The lyrics to 5 Hebrew Love Songs by were written by Eric Whitacre's wife, soprano Hila Plitmann. Each captures a moment that Hila and Eric shared together.

Beloved British composer Sir John Tavener dedicated Village Wedding to his wife Maryanna. Sir John died on November 12 of 2013. His loss was felt by musicians all over the world.

René Clausen's works have been performed and recorded by college and professional choirs all over the United States. His recent recording, "Life & Breath: Choral Works by René Clausen," received three Grammy awards in 2013.