Awakenings
Awakenings features two extraordinary works by composers from the Pioneer Valley region of Western Massachusetts: Shofar by Robert Stern, an intensely dramatic and deeply moving oratorio which we premiered in concert; and Why I Wake Early by Ronald Perera, with text drawn from the poetry of Mary Oliver.
You may purchase your copy at any of the following locations:
Listen to some excerpts:
Robert Stern (b. 1934)
SHOFAR: An Oratorio in Four Parts
Catherine Madsen, Libretto
Teresa Wakim, Soprano
Jason McStoots, Tenor
David Kravitz, Bass
Donald Wilkinson, Bass
"This is a gorgeous and important work of a masterful composer...there is nothing equal to it among the Jewish works I am aware of....."
More information about composer Robert Stern: http://robertsterncomposer.com
Read JewishBoston.com's interview with Robert Stern.
Ronald Perera (b. 1941)
WHY I WAKE EARLY: Eight Poems of Mary Oliver for Mixed Chorus, String Quartet and Piano
Lisa Brooke, Violin I
Sonja Larson, Violin II
Sandra Nortier, Viola
Reinmar Seidler, Cello
Darryl Hollister, Piano
Soloists: Joanna Taylor, Soprano; Leah Souder, Mezzo-soprano; Brian Abascal, Tenor; Kevin Verrette, Bass
"Ms. Oliver's poetry...reveals an awestruck regard of nature that verges on the religious...Enhanced by Mr. Perera's estimable knack for setting English, this is a substantial addition to the choral canon."
More information about composer Ronald Perera: http://ronaldperera.com
