2024 Spring Concert

This spring we will be working on four sacred pieces — a missa brevis by Schubert and three short works by Mozart.

Franz Schubert (1797 – 1828) composed his second full mass in about one week in early March 1815. He was 18 years old at the time. Less than 25 minutes long, the mass is scored simply – strings, SATB choir, soprano, tenor, and bass soloists. First performed shortly after its composition, the work was not printed until 1845, almost two decades after Schubert died. Until this first printing, the work was relatively unknown; however, since that time it quickly became one of his most-performed and best-loved shorter mass settings. Featuring beautiful melodies and lush harmonies, the work is devotional and contemplative in style, with only a few dramatic passages. In the final section of the mass (Agnus Dei) Schubert employs a harmonic language more Romantic than Classical to create a movement that poignantly expresses the text: “Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, grant us peace.” This plea for peace carries additional weight in today’s world.

The three shorter sacred works are Tantum Ergo, Laudate Dominum, and Inter Natos Mulierum composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1755-1791). While all three works demonstrate Mozart’s genius for melodic writing, the Laudate Dominum features one of the most beautiful melodies Mozart ever wrote.

Join the Choir

If you’re interested in joining the Arkansas Choral Society, we encourage you to connect with us a apply@lovetosing.org. Rehearsals are held every Monday throughout the fall and spring seasons leading up to the concert dates. There are no auditions. Dues are $25 for a season or $50 for the entire year, and choral members must purchase their own music. We look forward to answering any questions you may have!