Convergence of History: Ars Nova Singers Performance & History Presentation

Aspen Historical Society welcomes the public to a special concert with the Ars Nova Singers, a nationally recognized Boulder-based professional choir. Hosted at the historical Aspen Community Church, the performance will follow a presentation about the history of area churches. This unique event invites the community to enjoy an evening of history and spectacular music in one of the area’s storied architectural landmarks. Proceeds support CLASSic History, Aspen Historical Society’s robust history education programs, which are offered complimentary to regional schools.

Ars Nova Singers is a vocal ensemble specializing in a cappella music of the Renaissance and the 20th/21st centuries. This one-time performance will showcase a musical selection with connections to Aspen’s early years and the spiritual centers that anchored the community.

Ars Nova Singers will present the opening program of their 39th season, titled Here/There, near and far, past and future, an eclectic, energetic concert showcasing inspiring sounds from Colorado and around the world. Featured composers include Anton Bruckner (recognizing the 200th anniversary of his birth), Benjamin Britten, and György Ligeti, as well as contemporary women composers Sheena Phillips and Sarah Quartel, and more. A highlight will be a work with a historic Aspen connection: Ars Nova will perform one work from the 1891 organ dedication concert in Aspen Community Church, complete with a fascinating backstory that stretches from Great Britain to Colorado.

Henry Purcell, Music for a While
Anton Bruckner, Os justi  Maurice Ravel, Trois beaux oiseaix du Paradis (from Trois Chansons, 1914) Luigi Denza, arr. Morgan, Call Me Back – from the 1891 organ dedication concert in Aspen Community Church György Ligeti, Lux aeterna Sheena Philips, Circle of Life (Native American Song-Poems) – 3 mvts Sarah Quartel, Sing, My Child Frank Ticheli, Earth Song Benjamin Britten, Advance Democracy