St. Charles Singers Launch 41st Season with Irish Folk Premieres

UPDATE: The St. Charles Singers are set to kick off their 41st concert season with an exciting program titled “Time to Explore,” featuring rare Irish folk songs and innovative compositions. This concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 18, and 3 p.m. on Sunday, October 19, at Baker Memorial United Methodist Church in St. Charles, Illinois.

This season opener promises to be a musical revelation, as the choir will perform what they believe to be the American premiere of five recently rediscovered works by Dublin-born composer Charles Stanford. Jeffrey Hunt, founder and music director, emphasized that “some of these works are rarely heard anywhere,” making this a must-see event for music lovers.

The concert will feature a diverse repertoire, including songs inspired by both Irish traditions and German Romanticism. Among the highlights is “Zigeunerlieder” (Gypsy Songs), Op. 103 by Johannes Brahms, known for its charming take on Hungarian folk music.

In addition, the St. Charles Singers have co-commissioned “Hymn to Time,” composed by Lee Kesselman, with lyrics by renowned author Ursula K. Le Guin. This piece offers a reflective meditation on time, evoking the sound of ticking clocks and chimes.

The concert will also showcase “Half Acre,” a piece by Dan Messe, originally written for his band Hem, now arranged for choir. Another anticipated performance is “Come to the Woods” by Jake Runestad, based on the writings of famed naturalist John Muir, encapsulating the thrilling experience of nature.

Tickets for “Time to Explore” are priced at $50 for adults, $45 for seniors, and $12 for students, with group discounts available. Concert-goers can purchase tickets online at stcharlessingers.com or by calling 630-513-5272. Tickets may also be available at the door, depending on availability.

As excitement builds for this season opener, Hunt stated, “It’s the start of a season filled with musical discoveries that our choir will relish and that will surprise and delight our listeners.” With such a rich and varied program, the St. Charles Singers are poised to captivate their audience once again.

For those interested in the performing artists, the concert will feature a talented roster of singers, including sopranos from Arlington Heights to Wheaton, altos from Batavia to Vernon Hills, and a robust tenor and bass section. The collaborative pianist, Stephen Uhl, and violinist Wendy Benner will also contribute to this impressive lineup.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a groundbreaking season filled with unique musical explorations. Share the news and join the St. Charles Singers as they embark on another exciting chapter in their storied history!