Luther music ensembles to perform Brahms’ “A German Requiem”

The Luther College Cathedral Choir, Collegiate Chorale, Nordic Choir and Symphony Orchestra will perform Johannes Brahms’ “A German Requiem” in concert on Friday, May 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the Main Hall of the Center for Faith and Life.

Tickets to the performance are free for Luther students, faculty and staff; $15 for adults and $8 for students.   For complete ticket information, telephone the Luther College Box Office, (563) 387-1357, open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; extended hours Thursdays; open until 7 p.m.
   
The concert will be conducted by Daniel Baldwin, Luther professor of music and conductor of the Symphony Orchestra.
   
Brahms’ “A German Requiem”, most of which was composed between 1865 and 1866, is among the best known and most frequently performed choral-orchestral works.
   
Brahms assembled the libretto for the “Requiem”, taking verses from 11 different Biblical and Apocryphal books.  Four of seven movements are based on scriptural texts which are organized according to a distinctive structure or pattern: a statement of misery, affliction or sadness is followed by uplifting and comforting words.  The oratorio’s other three movements express joy in the contemplation of heaven and hope and comfort for the living and dead. 

The Symphony Orchestra consists of 79 student musicians representing a variety of academic majors.
   
Nordic Choir, the 72-voice flagship choral ensemble of Luther College, is conducted by Craig Arnold, Luther professor of music. 
   
Cathedral Choir, composed of 90 singers from the college’s sophomore class, is conducted by Sandra Peter, Luther assistant professor of music. 
   
Collegiate Chorale, featuring 85 mixed voices of select junior and senior singers, is conducted by Timothy Peter, Luther professor of music.