Chicago Opera Theater presented a mix of heartfelt tunes, love songs, whimsical and patriotic pieces during its recent winter program.
The company's Discovery Concert, "In America's Embrace," held at The Studebaker Theater in Chicago, featured a rich songlist by immigrant composers.
Prior to the song presentations, the company's general director, Lawrence Edelson, gave interesting commentary about the program and its songs. He offered insight into each composer's background and the tunes themselves. That's always a nice touch which Chicago Opera Theater regularly includes in their concerts.
Artists from Chicago Opera Theater are pictured at the recent concert "In America's Embrace." Provided photo.
Starring on the musical roster were compositions by Irving Berlin, Kurt Weill, Erich Wolfgang Korngold, Tania Leon, Osvaldo Golijov, Miguel Sandoval, Igor Stravinsky, Lukas Foss, Andre Previn and Aleksandra Vrebalov. The composers chosen for this show represent various countries.
In the Welcome note, written in the concert's program, general director Edelson writes "Music offers a space for reflection rather than reaction-an opportunity to listen, to consider complexity, and to remember how deeply immigrants are woven into the fabric of American cultural life.This Discovery Concert is a celebration of that legacy."
Members of Chicago Opera Theater perform a recent show starring the tunes of immigrant composers. Provided photo.
The talented line up of singers for the concert featured Tracy Cantin, Jordan Loyd, Schyler Vargas and Alex Soare. Music Director Laurie Rogers performed on piano for the show.
Among highlighted numbers were "How Can You Tell An American?," "I Remember It Well," "I Mean To Say I Love You," "Mi Amor Es," "Come, Master," "I Want Magic," "Always" and "God Bless America."
To learn more about future Chicago Opera Theater performances, visit www.chicagooperatheater.org.