 Newsletter
2003-07-20: GECC sings at Ravinia Festival
On Friday, August 1st, members of the Glen Ellyn Children's Chorus will perform
Bernstein's Symphony No. 3 (Kaddish) with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and
Chorus, conducted by John Axelrod. The concert will held at 8:00 p.m. at the
Ravinia Festival in Highland Park.
Tickets for this concert are priced at $10 for lawn admission and $20-$40 for
reserved Pavilion seats. Interested people may call Ravinia at 1-847-266-5100
for tickets and information.
While the Hebrew kaddish ("sanctification") is traditionally a prayer
chanted for the dead and identified with mourning, Bernstein's Kaddish is not
a prayer about death, but rather an affirmation of life. The text references
the Holocaust and, augmenting the angular and complex music, incorporates the
role of a Speaker who criticizes, implores, and ultimately praises God. The
children's choir, singing a melodic 5--part round towards the end of the piece,
represents innocence and hope. The piece is dedicated "To the beloved memory
of John F. Kennedy."
Also on the program is the Piano Concerto No. 5 in E flat (Emperor) by Beethoven,
performed by Leon Fleisher.
GECC Artistic Director, Emily Ellsworth, says, "It's always a thrill to
perform a work of this caliber with such magnificent forces at such a world-class
festival. What I especially love about Bernstein's sacred works is his constant
examination of the crisis of faith following a time of extreme hardship and
tragedy. Bernstein's answer is always an uplifting one full of hope and inspiration."
Young choristers participating in this concert range in age from 12-18 years
old, and come from towns throughout the western suburban area including Berkeley,
Carol Stream, Downers Grove, Glen Ellyn, Joliet, Lisle, Lombard, Naperville,
Roselle, St. Charles, Villa Park, Wheaton, Winfield, and Woodridge.
Young people who sing with the GECC have world-class experiences, yet membership
is open to any interested child. Auditions for new children will be held in
late August and early September. No previous musical experience is required.
All interested families are encouraged to call the Chorus office now at 630-858-2471
for information and to schedule an appointment.
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