The PSU Choir and Guest Orchestra will perform their much anticipated spring concert April 21 and 22 at 8 P.M. Friday’s concert is in Manchester at Ste. Marie’s Church and Saturday’s performance is in Hanaway Theater in the Silver Center for the Cultural Arts here at Plymouth State.
Dr. Dan Perkins, conductor of the PSU choirs, titled this year’s concert “A Celebration of Finnish Music.” He was influenced by his personal connection to the country, having lived there for three years, and is speaking the language. “Our course of study this semester has been the music, history and culture of Finland. This series of concerts is the capstone experience for members of the PSU choirs,” Perkins says.
A highlight of these concerts is the professional orchestra and soloists who will be accompanying the choir. According to the conductor, Daniel Perkins, “These kinds of performing opportunities are rare for undergraduate students, especially at a school the size of PSU.”
The concert’s program consists of music from Jean Sibelius’ Second Symphony and Finlandia, and Joonas Kokkonen’s Requiem. Camber Singers complete the concert with two works by Einhojuhani Rautavaara, a contemporary Finnish composer.
For those who are musically inept, don’t worry. “This music is so passionate and powerful, I am sure PSU students will be able to appreciate it!” Perkins’ promises.
The two shows are identical, so be sure to catch one. Tickets for the Plymouth show are available at the Box Office in Silver. For the Manchester show, tickets are available at Ted Herbert’s Music or they can be purchased at the door. General admission is $20 in Manchester and $18 in Plymouth but group discounts are available.