FRIDAY at 7:30 P.M.

Rise: A Concert by the University Singers and the Humboldt Chorale

Fulkerson Recital Hall

The Cal Poly Humboldt School of Dance, Music, and Theatre presents University Singers and Humboldt Chorale, led by choral director Rachel Samet, in two live concerts on Friday, December 12 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 14 at 2:00 p.m. The concert, called “RISE,” encapsulates the idea of rising in a variety of ways, from a literal rising up to more emotional and social perspective on what it means to rise. Concert tickets are $15 general, $5 children, and free for Cal Poly Humboldt students with ID. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance at centerarts.humboldt.edu. From the “All Events” drop down menu select “Department of Dance, Music, and Theatre” and select your event.

The 100+ member strong Humboldt Chorale will raise the audience’s spirits with Rosephanye Powell’s “Arise, Beloved,” a compelling and energetic take on the commonly known psalm. Passions are elevated with English Renaissance composer John Dowland’s madrigal “Come Again,” followed by Eric Whitacre’s simple yet profound “Sing Gently,” which was written during the pandemic and is a quiet call to sing and create community during challenging times. The group will keep everyone moving with “Temporal,” a lively Puerto Rican plena arranged by Diana V. Saez and Suzzette Ortiz. Elaine Hagenberg’s dramatic setting of Sara Teasdale’s “The Music of Stillness” evokes a range of emotions. The Chorale finishes the first half with an energetic arrangement of Rachel Platten’s popular “Fight Song.”

University Singers starts the second half of the program in Renaissance England with Peter Phillips’ joyous motet “Ascendit Deus.” Next, a look toward the beautiful night sky is evoked with Johannes Brahms’ “O schöne nacht.” University Singers continues with Bryan Sharpe’s moving setting of Paul Laurence Dunbar’s “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.” Malaysian-American composer Tracy Wong’s “JAM!” is upbeat and fun, fusing Malaysian and American pop styles. Eric William Barnum’s “Dawn” captures the earliest part of the day with grace and beauty. Eugene Thamon Simpson’s arrangement of the African American spiritual “Hold On!” is a classic in choral repertoire and is a call to keep going and remain hopeful during the most challenging of circumstances.

The Humboldt Chorale and University Singers will join together to form a 120-member choir with Rosephanye and William Powell’s powerful “Still I Rise.” Inspired by Maya Angelou, the piece is in a gospel style and provides a rousing and uplifting end to the concert. This concert is sure to raise your spirits and you won’t want to miss it!

DATES/TIMES

• Friday : 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday : 2 p.m.

WHERE

• Fulkerson Recital Hall

PRICE

• $15
• $5 Children
• Free Cal Poly Students with ID