St. Charles Singers to Launch 41st Season with Irish Folk Music

The St. Charles Singers are set to open their 41st concert season with a captivating program titled “Time to Explore,” scheduled for October 18 and 19, 2025. Under the direction of founder and music director Jeffrey Hunt, the concert will showcase how classical composers have drawn inspiration from folk melodies, featuring works that are largely new to the choir’s repertoire.

“Some of these works are rarely heard anywhere, and all but two are new to the St. Charles Singers’ repertoire,” Hunt stated in a recent announcement. “It’s the start of a season filled with musical discoveries that our choir will relish and that will surprise and delight our listeners.” The performances will be held at the Baker Memorial United Methodist Church in St. Charles, with the first concert starting at 19:30 and a second matinee at 15:00.

Exploring New Musical Horizons

One of the highlights of “Time to Explore” is the anticipated American premiere of five recently rediscovered Irish folk songs by Charles Stanford, an Anglo-Irish composer known for his late-Romantic style that harmonizes Irish musical traditions with German Romanticism, particularly the works of Johannes Brahms. Stanford’s compositions reflect his deep affection for Irish music, making them a significant addition to the choir’s performance.

Brahms himself is featured in the program with his charming “Zigeunerlieder” (Gypsy Songs), Op. 103. This collection is celebrated for its lively interpretation of Hungarian folk themes, showcasing Brahms’s versatility beyond his more serious vocal works.

Additionally, the St. Charles Singers have co-commissioned a new piece titled “Hymn to Time” from Illinois composer Lee Kesselman. With lyrics by noted science fiction author Ursula K. Le Guin, this work meditates on the concept of time through lyrical music that evokes the sounds of ticking clocks and chimes.

Another notable piece included in the concert is “Half Acre,” originally composed by Dan Messe for his band Hem. The arrangement, adapted for choir by Gregory Good, reflects Messe’s connection to his rural Michigan roots. The program also features “Come to the Woods” by Grammy-nominated composer Jake Runestad, inspired by the writings of environmental pioneer John Muir. This piece captures the thrill of experiencing nature during a windstorm.

In a nod to the choir’s history, the concert includes an arrangement of the Appalachian folk song “Black Is the Color of My True Love’s Hair” by celebrated singer and arranger Stuart Churchill. This song was first performed by the St. Charles Singers in the 1980s, when the ensemble was known as the Mostly Madrigal Singers.

Tickets and Performers

Tickets for “Time to Explore” are available for $50 for adults, $45 for seniors, and $12 for students, with group discounts accessible. Interested individuals can purchase tickets via the St. Charles Singers’ website or by calling 630-513-5272. Tickets may also be available at the venue on the performance days, subject to availability.

The ensemble features a diverse group of talented vocalists. Sopranos include Michelle Areyzaga and Jessica Heinrich, while altos feature Margaret Fox and Amy Bearden. The tenor section includes Brian Smith and Rob Campbell, while bass singers consist of Brandon Fox and Douglas Peters. Accompanying the choir will be violinist Wendy Benner and collaborative pianist Stephen Uhl.

Founded in 1984, the St. Charles Singers have earned acclaim for their commitment to choral music. Recognized as “a national treasure” by American Record Guide, the ensemble comprises professional singers, choral directors, and educators, many of whom perform with leading Chicago choirs. The choir has hosted esteemed guest conductors, including renowned English composer Sir John Rutter and Grammy Award-winning conductor Craig Hella Johnson.

As the St. Charles Singers embark on this new season, audiences can anticipate a blend of familiar and unfamiliar works that promise to enrich the cultural landscape of the community.