The College of Central Florida’s performing arts department has once again created an amazing musical occasion. The Nov. 9, entitled “Echoes of Innovation,” left an impression thanks to its carefully crafted musical journey.
The director for CF’s Patriot Singers, Dr. Longtin, detailed the process of selecting the choral music and revealed some of performance secrets that made each piece unique.
“I usually decide on a theme for the concert. Sometimes, this theme is very specific,” said Longtin, “For example, last year we did ‘Water’ theme in the fall and ‘World Music’ in the spring. The progression of the music mirrors the progression of life. The beginning, youth, decision-making, love, mortality and the end.”
A major task of this fall semester was the choir’s commitment to conveying the lyrics’ deep meaning. “This semester, more than others, we really focused on the texts, Longtin added. “Music that is well-composed will set the text in a way that makes sense and uplifts the words. I think we have a program of music that has done just that.”
During the concert, Longtin invited the audience to connect with the texts, too. “We have published the words in the program, and I am encouraging the audience to read along as we sing, said Longtin. “I hope that the audience will find inspiration and comfort throughout performance.”
After the choir performance, the College of Central Florida Wind Symphony came on stage with their concert pieces. Professor Ash, Wind Symphony conductor, announced from the stage that all the music they would play was written in 2023.
In this program, the highlight was a composition by CF professor Joshua Mazur and flutist student Michael Crumpton. Mazur’s “The Desert Shall Bloom as the Rose” and Crumpton’s “The Mind Reader” showcased the wealth of talent in the local music community.
This semester, the music department will delight us with even more exciting coming events. Mark your calendars for April! One of the most anticipated shows by students , the musical, “Hunchback of Notre Dame” will be playing from April 4 to April 7.
