March 16, 2011

Orchestra and Chorus join forces for special performance

SEARCY, Ark. — The Harding University Orchestra will join the Harding University Chorus and perform Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem in a special upcoming concert March 31 at 7:30 p.m. in the Administration Auditorium on campus.

The chorus typically performs with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra in the spring, but an interruption in the ASO practice of performing a large orchestra/choral production has led the chorus to enlist the help of their friends in the Harding University Orchestra. Their partnership will enable both groups to perform a major work while collaborating with fellow Harding musicians.

Requiem is in seven movements and was composed around 1892 by one of France’s greatest composers and head of the Paris Conservatory of Music, Gabriel Fauré (1845-1924).

The baritone soloist will be Alex Ritchie, a 2010 Harding alumnus who is currently working on his master’s degree in vocal performance at University of Missouri-Kansas City. He is well known for his musical participation during his time at Harding, including the lead role in the homecoming musical, “Scrooge.” Junior music major Morgan Tunnell will perform as the soprano soloist. Dr. Cliff Ganus, professor of music and director of choral activities, will direct the performance.

Outside instrumentalists will also participate in the concert including a harpist, a bassist, two cellists and Harding graduate Ray Hankins, a former bassoonist with the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.

The performance is free and open to the public. For more information, call the music department at 501-279-4343.