For eighteen years Laudamus has brought rich voices and a wide selection of special choral music to Northern Colorado.Themes from the last several years strike an incredible balance showcasing songs from the 16th century such as Palestrina’s “Sicut Cervus” to more recent traditional American folk song, “Shenandoah,” the spiritual “Deep River,” and movements from Herbert Howell’s “Requiem.”
In 2015, Laudamus and soloists presented the full seven movement Brahms Requiem, with four-hand piano accompaniment in the renowned University Center for the Arts Organ Recital Hall. Performed in English, this true choral masterpiece was as moving today as when it was written in 1869.
In 2014, concerts took on the range of music from the 16th to the 20th century as described above. Also in 2014, “From Brahms to PDQ Bach (AKA Professor Peter Schickele)” featured an array of repertoire from the lighter side with “Liebeslieder Polkas” by PDQ Bach to traditional favorites by Durufle, Mendelssohn, and Faure, as well as several spirituals. Also showcased in this concert was a work by Colorado composer, Terry Schlenker that premiered to wild enthusiasm in May.
In 2013, our December concert, “What Sweeter Music,” took its title from John Rutter’s stunning choral Christmas carol of the same name. The concert also included a range of beautiful acappella Christmas works like John Joubert’s “There is No Rose”, and Franz Biebl’s incredible arrangement of “Ave Maria”. A special treat was the Western U.S. Premier of a new work by Tawnie Olson, “O Inexpressible Mystery”, accompanied by solo viola.
In 2012, Laudamus performed “A New Creation,” a wonderful 12 movement oratorio for chorus, soloists, and orchestra written by Rene Claussen. This spirit-filled work of art reveals our origins, our limitations, our call before God, lamentations, our need for mercy, our continuing thirst for meaning through Christ, and the recognition of a new creation.
Also included in the 2012 concert was a set of shorter choral works, including Morten Lauridsen’s “Sure on this Shining Night.”
Truly something for everyone, with special emphasis on music that stirs the emotions from the heart and soul, Laudamus continues to entertain and to elevate one’s longing for the spiritual elegance of choral music.
