Choirs and musical programmes

MIXED CHOIRS

Maribor Academic Choir, Slovenia

conductor Tadeja Vulc

The Maribor Academic Choir, a singing section part of KUD Študent cultural association since 1964, is formed mainly by students committed to quality singing and friendships. The choir is the primary bearer of youth culture in the city of Maribor and internationally promotes Maribor, as well as Slovenia, Slovenian music and authors. Singers perform under the baton of Tadeja Vulc, who has been leading the choir with great success for its third season. International competitions, from which the choir keeps returning with highest awards, present a constant in their 50-year history. They concluded the past season with a gold plaque at Naša pesem national competition, which reassured them, and gave further impetus to singers and the conductor. In addition to the overall 2nd place, the choir was received a special award for the performance of a contemporary piece Epilog by Tadeja Vulc. The choir also took part at the competition in Germany, ranking 2nd in the mixed, and 3rd in folk category. Their repertoire includes folk music and written compositions by the great masters of choral music from the early musical creation to the most modern works, so each listener may find some small part of music he especially likes.


Akademski pevski zbor Maribor, Slovenia, conductor Tadeja Vulc

OPENING CONCERT
Marijan Dović (1974): ZELENI JURIJ (based on folk motifs from Bela krajina, Southeast Slovenia)
rokopis/manuscript
Slavko Avsenik (1929)/Vilko Ovsenik (1928): ODMEV S TRIGLAVA (Marjan Stare)
Galerija Avsenik – Hohner

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl – Gallus (1550–1591): IOCUNDARE FILIA SYON (OM: 1/7)
MAMS SAZU
Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1809–1847): JAUCHZET DEM HERRN ALLE WELT (Ps 100)
Carus-Verlag
Ambrož Čopi (1973): DAJTE NOVICI NA KOLAČ (folksong from Istria)
JSKD

FREE PROGRAM
Antonio Lotti (1667–1740): CRUCIFIXUS (part of the Nicene Creed 381 A.D.)
CPDL
Ko Matsushita (1962): JUBILATE DEO (Ps 100)
Carus-Verlag
Tadeja Vulc (1978): FORTUNA (Codex Buranus, Lucius Annaeus Seneca, Silius Ialicus)
Astrum

GRAND PRIX
Samo Vremšak (1930–2004): ŽENKA MI V GOSTE GRE (folksong from Idrija, Northwest Slovenia)
JSKD
Tadeja Vulc (1978): EPILOG (Anton Funtek)
Astrum
Knut Nystedt (1915–2002): VENI (Pope Innocent III)
Norsk Musikforlag

East Carolina University Chamber Singers, USA

conductor Andrew Crane

The Chamber Singers is the select choral ensemble at ECU. Comprised of 34-40 auditioned singers, many of whom are voice majors from within the School of Music, the group tours annually and has performed by invitation at regional and national conferences of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) and the National Association for Music Education. The Chamber Singers have produced two CD recordings on the Gothic label: Greater Love and Eternal Light, and also were the winners of the 2012 American Prize for Choral Performance (college/university division). They maintain a rigorous rehearsal and performance schedule, and focus predominantly on unaccompanied choral literature for advanced chamber choir. In November 2013, the Chamber Singers competed in the Tolosa (Spain) International Choral Contest, as the only American choir. There, they were one of three chamber choirs to advance to the Winner’s Concert, and received multiple medals and awards.


East Carolina University Chamber Singers, USA, conductor Andrew Crane

OPENING CONCERT
Jule Styne (1905–1994)/Philip Kern: EVERYTHING'S COMING UP ROSES, from musical Gypsy (Stephen Sondheim)
Alfred Music Publishing
Moses Hogan (1957–2003): MY SOUL'S BEEN ANCHORED IN THE LORD (spiritual)
Hal Leonard Comrporation

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl – Gallus (1550–1591): JERUSALEM, GAUDE GAUDIO MAGNO (OM: 1/8, Advent Vespers)
JSKD
Josef Gabriel Rheinberger (1839–1901): VIER MOTETTEN, Op. 133:
2. Meditabor (Ps 118: 47, 48a)
Carus-Verlag
Ambrož Čopi (1973): DAJTE NOVICI NA KOLAČ (folksong from Istria)
JSKD

FREE PROGRAM
Jake Runestad (1986): ALLELUIA (Liturgical chant)
Jake Runestad, JK Music
Heinrich Schütz (1585–1672): DIE MIT TRÄNEN SÄEN WERDEN MIT FREUDEN ERNTEN, SWV 378 (Ps 125 (126): 5,6)
Bärenreiter-Verlag
Paweł Łukaszewski (1968): TWO LENTEN MOTETS:
2. Crucem tuam adoramus, Domine (antiphon for Good Friday)
Polskie Wydawnictwo Muzyezne SA
Petr Eben (1929–2007): CANTICO DELLE CREATURE (SONNENGESANG) (St. Francis of Assisi)
Bärenreiter-Verlag, Kassel

GRAND PRIX
Petr Eben (1929–2007): CANTICO DELLE CREATURE (SONNENGESANG) (St. Francis of Assisi)
Bärenreiter-Verlag, Kassel
Ēriks Ešenvalds (1977): THE HEAVEN’S FLOCK (Paulann Petersen)
Edition Peters
Selga Mence (1953): KALĒJS KALA DEBESĪS (Latvian folk tale)
Musica Baltica

 

Lunds Akademiska Kör, Sweden

conductor Cecilia Martin-Löf

Lunds Akademiska Kör (Lund Academic Choir) is one of the most interesting upcoming choirs of Sweden today. With a long history and high ambitions, the choir has developed remarkably over the past 7 years as it became the official student choir of Lund University. Most of the 40-45 singers have student background at different faculties at Lund University. Combining an active social community with a constant curiosity about new music, new concepts, ambitious programs and singer development are the priorities. Singers handle the scores and repertoire, organize choral weekends and tours, discuss artistic direction and invite guest conductors. The choir was formed in 1927 as a women’s choir to provide an alternative to the male choirs that had dominated musical life at the university. In 1958, it reformed as a mixed choir to extend available repertoire, and since 2007, it is part of the Lund University music department, Odeum. The repertoire ranges from classical a capella music to large orchestral pieces. Aside traditional Swedish choral music and the great standards by Bach and others, the choir has introduced its audience to less known or new pieces by local composers. They took part in the Miedzydroje Choral Competion in 2008 and won gold in all categories as well as Grand Prix and two special prizes. Conductor and musical director since 2007 is Cecilia Martin-Löf.


Lunds Akademiska Kör, Sweden, conductor Cecilia Martin-Löf

OPENING CONCERT
Cecilia Martin-Löf (1974): IMPROVISATIONER PÅ SVENSKA FOLKMUSIKEN (Swedish folk music)
Unpublished
Cecilia Martin-Löf (1974): KORAL FRÅN DALARNA (Swedish folksong)
Unpublished
Cecilia Martin-Löf (1974): STAFFANSVISA FRÅN HÄLSINGLAND (Swedish folksong)
Bo Ejeby

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl – Gallus (1550–1591): ALLELUIA. CANTATE DOMINO CANTICUM NOVUM (OM: 2/34, Ps 98, 1, 100, 1-2, 98, 4)
MAMS SAZU
Otto Olson (1879–1964): JESU CORONA CELSIOR (10th century hymn)
Ambrož Čopi (1973): DAJTE NOVICI NA KOLAČ (folksong from Istria)
JSKD

FREE PROGRAM
Z. Randall Stroope (1953): THE CONVERSION OF SAUL (Z. Randall Stroope)
Alliance Music
Ulrika Emanuelsson (1965): VÅRMORGON (Ulrika Emanuelsson)
Eeka Music
Arne Mellnäs (1933–2002): FROM 10 PROVERBS (Old Testament)
2. Bättre är … (Prg/Proverbs 21:9)
5b. Milda ord  (Prg/Proverbs 16:24)
Edition Reimers
Frank Martin (1890–1974): MASS FOR DOUBLE CHOIR
 Credo (Ordinarium Missae)
Bärenreiter

GRAND PRIX
Frank Martin (1890–1974): MASS FOR DOUBLE CHOIR
 Credo (Ordinarium Missae)
Bärenreiter
William Averitt (1952): THE DREAM KEEPER
3. As I Grew Older (Langston Hughes)
ECS Publishing
Allen Koepke (1939–2012): WADE IN DE WATER (spiritual)
SBMP

 

Youth choir Maska, Latvia

conductor Jānis Ozols

Youth choir “Maska” is a community with its own charm, style and unique musicality that unites its members. The leader and conductor of the choir since its foundation in 2000 is Jānis Ozols. “Maska” is proud of its high achievements over time, becoming one of the best mixed choirs in Latvia. Since early days, “Maska” has shown itself as a young, but ambitious, creative and professional collective, while actively performing in Latvia as well as taking part in international choir competitions. Their greatest achievements are 2nd prize at Tolosa 2014 Choir Competition both in Folklore and Polyphony categories with highest result among mixed choirs, Champions of the Folklore category at World Choir Games 2014, 2nd prize at Champions competition in Mixed Choirs category, and Grand Prix at the International Harald Andersen Chamber Choir Competition in Helsinki, 2012. The choir’s repertoire covers a vast range of music – from sacral to folk and contemporary music, always searching for new interpretations of choral music and enriching their performance by daring to be different. They cooperate with beloved and world-known Latvian musicians, such as vocal group Latvian Voices, marimba virtuoso Rihards Zalupe, instrumental group XylemTrio, and others, both performing together and singing pieces composed specially for hoir “Maska”.


Maska, Latvia, conductor Jānis Ozols

OPENING CONCERT
Jāzeps Vītols (1863–1948): GAISMAS PILS (Auseklis)
Musica Baltica
Reinis Sējāns (1984): VINDO (Reinis Sējans, Jānis Šipkēvics)         
Musica Baltica

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl – Gallus (1550–1591): MIRABILE MYSTERIUM (OM: 1/54, antiphon in the Christmas Octave)
Breitkopf & Härtel
Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1809–1847): RICHTE MICH, GOTT (Ps 43, I–V)     
Bärenreiter
Ambrož Čopi (1973): DAJTE NOVICI NA KOLAČ (folksong from Istria)     
JSKD

FREE PROGRAM
James MacMillan (1959): A CHILD'S PRAYER (traditional text)    
Boosey & Hawkes
Perttu Haapanen (1972): READYMADE ALICE (David Demchuk)   
Sulasol
Pēteris Vasks (1946): ZĪLES ZIŅA (Uldis Bērziņš)    
Schott Music

GRAND PRIX
Laura Jēkabsone (1985): DINDARU DANDARU (Latvian folksong)
Unpublished
Ēriks Ešenvalds (1977): NORTHERN LIGHTS (Charles Francis, Fridtjof Nansen)   
Musica Baltica
Jānis Liepiņš (1988): MURGS (Jānis Liepiņš, Mikus Abaroniņš)      
Unpublished

 

Mixed choir Sōla of the Latvian Academy of Culture, Latvia

conductor Kaspars Ādamsons

Mixed choir “Sōla” of the Latvian Academy of Culture was founded in 1998. At present the students and graduates of the Academy as well as young people from other universities, schools and workplaces sing in the choir. “Sōla” tries to enhance its potentials by participating in local and international competitions and festivals. Almost every year the choir takes part in an international competition to amass its experience for further development. During the year "Sōla" prepares approximately 5 different programmes, takes part in various singing events and performs on festive occasions. All of it lets the choir realize its creative potentials and raise the artistic quality, as well as gain new experience. As of 2004 Kaspars Ādamsons is the artistic director of the choir "Sōla", working together with conductors Jēkabs Jančevskis and Jānis Pēlmanis. As of October 2014 the choir's vocal coach is Saiva Treide.


Mixed Choir Sōla of the Latvian Academy of Culture, Latvia, conductor Kaspars Ādamsons

OPENING CONCERT
Jānis Cimze (1814–1881): RĪGA DIMD (Latvian folksong)
Musica Baltica
Ārijs Šķepasts (1961): LĪGO! (Latvian folksong)
Musica Baltica
Choir Sōla: SĒJU VĒJU (Latvian folksong)
Unpublished

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl – Gallus (1550–1591): SURGE, PROPERA, AMICA MEA (Song of Songs 2, 10.14)
MAMS SAZU, Ljubljana
Johannes Brahms (1833–1897): FEST- UND GEDENKSPRÜCHE, Op. 109
3. Wo ist ein so herrlich Volk (5. Mz 4, 7–9)
Carus–Verlag
Ambrož Čopi (1973): DAJTE NOVICI NA KOLAČ (folksong from Istria)
JSKD

FREE PROGRAM
Robert Lucas de Pearsall (1795–1856): LAY A GARLAND (Francis Beaumont, John Fletcher)
Oxford University Press
Arvo Pärt (1935): BOGORÓDITSE DJÉVO (Ortodox Prayer)
Universal Edition A. G.
Jēkabs Jančevskis (1992): ADVENIAT REGNUM (Liturgical text)
Musica Baltica

GRAND PRIX
Maija Einfelde (1939): PIE ZEMES TĀLĀS (Aeschylus)
Musica Baltica
Gustav Mahler (1860–1911)/Clytus Gottwald (1925): ICH BIN DER WELT ABHANDEN GEKOMMEN (Friedrich Rückert)
Universal Edition
Jēkabs Jančevskis (1992): ATSALUMS (Jēkabs Jančevskis, Latvian folksongs)
Musica Baltic

 

New Dublin Voices, Ireland

conductor Bernie Sherlock

International award-winning New Dublin Voices is a leading Irish chamber choir. Founded by conductor Bernie Sherlock in 2005, from the start NDV has presented concert programmes that are fresh, innovative, and exciting, ranging widely in style and period from the medieval to the contemporary. The choir takes special pleasure in exploring the music of living composers and has given many Irish and world premieres. NDV has won prizes at major competitions in France, Hungary, Germany, Finland, Belgium, Spain, England and Italy, including first prize at the Concorso Polifonico in Arezzo, Italy in August 2013, thereby becoming the first Irish choir to win a place in the European Grand Prix for Choral Singing. NDV was selected to take part in three of Europe’s prestigeous festivals: Musique en Morvan 2012; Europäisches Jugendchor Festival Basel 2014 (NDV Youth Choir), and Polyfollia 2014. The choir’s busy calendar also includes fund-raising for charities, television appearances, guesting with Ireland's professional orchestras, and performing at special public events. The choir released two CDs – "Something Beginning with B", featuring everything from Byrd to the Beatles, and "Christmas with New Dublin Voices" in 2010. The latest CD is devoted to music by Irish composers will be released in December 2015 by Ireland’s leading record label, RTÉ lyric fm.


New Dublin Voices, Ireland, conductor Bernie Sherlock

OPENING CONCERT
Howard Goodall (1958): STAR OF THE COUNTY DOWN (ballad from Banbridge)
Hal Leonard Corporation
Matthew Erpelding (1978): BÍONN SIÚLACH SCÉALACH (Gaelic Proverb)
Earthsongs

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl – Gallus (1550–1591): ELISABETHAE VERO IMPLETUM EST TEMPUS
(OM: 4/20 Lk 1: 57–63)
CPDL
Johannes Brahms (1833–1897): DREI GESÄNGE, Op. 42
3. Darthulas Grabesgesang (Ossian/Johann Gottfried Herder)
CPDL
Ambrož Čopi (1973): DAJTE NOVICI NA KOLAČ (folksong from Istria)     
JSKD

FREE PROGRAM
Ben Hanlon  (1952): MOLAIMÍS GO LEIR AN TAON-MHAC CHRÍOST (traditional Irish text)
Contemporary Music Centre Ireland
Claudio Monteverdi (1567–1643): SFOGAVA CON LE STELLE (Ottavio Rinuccini)
CPDL
Trond Kverno (1945): AVE MARIS STELLA (Ps 100)
Norsk Musikforlag AS
Ward Swingle (1927–2015): IT WAS A LOVER AND HIS LASS (William Shakespeare)
UNC Jazz Press

GRAND PRIX
Seán Doherty (1987): A NYWE WERK (anonymus)
Contemporary Music Centre Ireland
Claudio Monteverdi (1567–1643): IO MI SON GIOVINETTA (Giovanni Boccaccio)
CPDL
Vytautas Miškinis (1945): O NATA LUX (10th century hymn)
Musica Baltica
Greg Knauf (1972): GLORIA (Lk 2: 14)
Plymouth Music

 

Padjadjaran University Choir, Indonesia

conductor Arvin Zeinullah

Padjadjaran University Choir (Unpad Choir) is one of the student activity units at Padjadjaran University, Bandung, West Java, Indonesia, established in 1978. It has grown to be one of the most important student activity units in ceremonial activities at Padjadjaran University. As a professional organization, it also has been trusted to perform at various events, working with nationally and internationally acclaimed musicians. During its existence in the choral world, Unpad Choir has succeeded in making a name for itself as one of the prominent university choirs in Indonesia by winning various national and international choral competitions and festivals. Conducted by Arvin Zeinullah since 2001, Unpad Choir’s most recent achievements include: winning First Places for Advanced Mixed Choir and Female Choir Category at The 24th Praga Cantat Competition and Festival 2010 in Prague, Czech Republic; winning the 48th Montreux Choral Festival with five titles including the Grand Prix Winner in Switzerland, and performing cultural concerts in Sorbonne, France and Switzerland in 2012; winning the First Places for Polyphony Costa Blanca Category at 59th International Contest of Habanera and Polyphony of Torrevieja and performing concerts in XXI Choralies Festival as a guest choir in 2013, and many others. Unpad Choir has been commended for its prestige and success as one of the best choirs in Indonesia.


Padjadjaran University Choir, Indonesia, conductor Arvin Zeinullah

OPENING CONCERT
Slamet A. Sjukur (1935): TETABEUHAN SUNGAT (sound of Javanese gamelan)

Budi Susanto Yohanes (1979): MARENCONG-RENCONG (Bugis traditional)
Gracioso Sonora Choir

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl – Gallus (1550–1591): PATER NOSTER (OM: 1/69, prayer)
MAMS SAZU, Ljubljana
Johannes Brahms (1833–1897): FEST- UND GEDENKSPRÜCHE, Op. 109
3. Wo ist ein so herrlich Volk (5. Mz 4, 7–9)
CPDL
Ambrož Čopi (1973): DAJTE NOVICI NA KOLAČ (folksong from Istria)     
JSKD

FREE PROGRAM
Alejandro Yagüe (1947): EL AMOR Y LA LOCURA (Felix Maria Samaniego)
CM Ediciones Musicales S.L
Rihards Dubra (1964): STETIT ANGELUS (Rev 8, 3-4)
Musica Baltica
Ko Matsushita (1962): JUBILATE DEO (Ps 100)
Carus-Verlag

GRAND PRIX
Ko Matsushita (1962): JUBILATE DEO (Ps 100)
Carus-Verlag
Perttu Haapanen (1972): READYMADE ALICE (David Demchuk)   
Sulasol
Alberto Grau (1937): BIN-NAM-MA  (Catalan folksong)

 

MALE CHOIR

Svanholm Singers, Sweden

conductor Sofia Söderberg Eberhard

Svanholm Singers is an extraordinary male voice chamber choir. Since its formation in 1998, the ensemble has established itself as one of the brightest shining stars on the Swedish choral scene. The twenty talented singers constantly strive to develop and refine their artistic and musical expression, through vocal music for male voices. The core of the repertoire is the male choir tradition of Scandinavia and the Baltic. Through numerous tours and awards in Europe and Japan the ensemble has gained a reputation for performances characterized by spirit, joy and youth while making unique interpretations of classical music. The light voices of the singers in combination with an exact intonation create a unique sound that has become the trademark for Svanholm Singers. The choir was named after Set Svanholm (1904–1964), world famous opera tenor and father of Eva Svanholm Bohlin, who was the founder and first conductor of Svanholm Singers


Svanholm Singers, Sweden, conductor Sofia Söderberg Eberhard

OPENING CONCERT
Sofia Söderberg Eberhard (1972): LIMU LIMU LIMA (Swedish herding song)
Unpublished
Sofia Söderberg Eberhard (1972): KULLDANSEN (Swedish dance game)
Unpublished

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl Gallus (1550–1591): O MAGNUM MYSTERIUM (OM: 1/32, antiphon in the Christmas Octave)
Hugo Alfvén (1872–1960):  GRYNING VID HAVET (Sten Selander)
Gehrmans Musikförlag
Ambrož Čopi (1973): DAJTE NOVICI NA KOLAČ (folksong from Istria)     
Astrum

FREE PROGRAM
Veljo Tormis (1930): INCANTATIO MARIS AESTUOSI (from The Kalevala)
Ylioppilaskunnan Laulajat
Jan Sandström (1954): VUOJNHA BIEGGA (traditional Sami yoik)
Unpublished

GRAND PRIX
Sofia Söderberg Eberhard (1972): INTRO (Sofia Söderberg Eberhard)
Unpublished
Jaroslav Křička (1882–1969): KDO MÁ POCERNÚ GALANKU, Op. 28:3 (Moravian folksong)
Hudebni Matice, Praha/Breitkopf & Härtel
Veljo Tormis (1930): SÜGISMAASTIKUD
7. Kanarbik (Heather) (Viivi Luik)
Fennica Gehrman

 

 

FEMALE CHOIR

Women's Chamber Choir ČarniCe, Slovenia

conductor Monika Fele

Women's chamber choir ČarniCe is among the more discernible Slovenian choirs. Coming from all across Slovenia, they are a colourful company of singers with different wishes, goals, and missions, but also a great love in common – choral music. They were led by a number of conductors during their already 10-year cooperation, marked by concerts, numerous projects met with a wide response, four issued records, and absolute victory at the 2010 Naša pesem national competition (cond. Sebastjan Vrhovnik). In choosing the programs and collaborating musicians, they are guided by the desire to preserve cultural heritage, promote Slovenian creativity, and perform a diverse repertoire with quality: sacred and profane, old and modern music, folk and original songs. Monika Fele, a promising young musician, singer and conductor, is the new artistic director of the choir for the new decade of its function.


Ženski komorni zbor Čarnice, Slovenia, conductor Monika Fele

OPENING CONCERT
Tine Bec (1993): PA KAKO BOM LJUBILA? (Slovenian folksong)
Unpublished, new composition
Radovan Gobec (1905–1995): NE ÓURI, NE SEJAJ (folksong from Prekmurje, Northeast Slovenia)
ZKOS/JSKD
Alojz Srebotnjak (1931–2010): REZIJANSKA (folksong from Resia)
ZKOS/JSKD

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl – Gallus (1550–1591): PUERI CONCINNITE (OM: 1/58)
MAMS SAZU, Ljubljana
Robert Schumann (1810–1856): DIE CAPELLE (Ludwig Uhland)
Carlus-Verlag
Ambrož Čopi (1973): DAJTE NOVICI NA KOLAČ (folksong from Istria)     
Astrum

FREE PROGRAM
Lojze Lebič (1934): VOŽNJA (Srečko Kosovel)
JSKD
Ambrož Čopi (1973): OTROK S SONČNICO (Srečko Kosovel)         
Astrum
Andrej Makor (1987): ISTRSKA (Neža Maurer)
Unpublished

GRAND PRIX
Lojze Lebič (1934): VOŽNJA (Srečko Kosovel)
JSKD
Ruta Vintule (1944): LIETUS VĪRIŅŠ (Fricis Bārda)
Musica Baltica
Ambrož Čopi (1973): ENO DREVCE MI JE ZRASLO (Slovenian folksong from Veneto)     
Astrum

 

VOCAL GROUPS

Ensemble Nobiles, Germany

art. director Paul Heller

Ensemble Nobiles was founded in January 2006. The choristers met each other during their nine-year education in fine arts as members of the St. Thomas Boys Choir Leipzig. Their repertoire ranges from late medieval mass songs to modern works. The five young musicians attach great importance to the works of German Romantic composers, such as Schubert, Schumann and Mendelssohn Bartholdy, as well as to their extensive church music repertoire. Ensemble Nobiles participated in practical seminars under the direction of vocal teacher Werner Schüssler, the former Hilliard singer John Potter, the Hilliard Ensemble and Ensemble Amarcord. Receiving a grant from the German Music Council in 2014, the five singers won the Special Prize, a second grant awarded by Deutsche Stiftung Musikleben (under the patronage of the Federal President) and a grant awarded by Marie-Luise Imbusch-Stiftung. In the same year Ensemble Nobiles won the First Prize of the German National Choir Competition. They released three records: A German Mass in May 2012 at GENUIN label from Leipzig; Hugo Distler, recorded in close collaboration with Sjaella to honor the composer's 70th death anniversary in October 2012; and Be welcome the past Octobre (GENUIN) which joins songs and motets for Advent, Christmas and Epiphany. In addition to home performances, they also performed at renowned Bachfest Leipzig, the ensemble performed in New Zealand, Switzerland, France and the Netherlands.


Ensemble Nobiles, Germany, art. director Paul Heller

OPENING CONCERT
Max Reger (1873–1956): NEUN AUSGEWÄHLTE VOLKSLIEDER
5. Ich ging durch einen grasgrünen Wald (German folksong)
Universal Edition A.G. Wien
Friedrich Silcher (1789–1860): UNTREUE (Joseph von Eichendorff)
Edition Peters
Johannes Brahms (1833–1897)/Paul Heller (1991): 14 DEUTSCHE VOLKSLIEDER, WoO 34
8. In stiller Nacht (Friedrich Spee von Langenfeld)
Unpublished

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl – Gallus (1550–1591): ANTE LUCIFERUM (OM: 1/56)
MAMS SAZU, Ljubljana
Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1809–1847): VIER LIEDER FÜR VIERSTIMMIGEN MÄNNERCHOR, Op. 75
Der frohe Wandersmann (Joseph von Eichendorff)
Breitkopf & Härtel
Bernd Engelbrecht (1968)/Paul Heller (1991): EIN JÄGER LÄNGS DEM WEIHER GING (German folksong from Taunus)
Unpublished

FREE PROGRAM
Thomas Tallis (1505–1585): O LORD, IN THEE IS ALL MY TRUST (anonymus, c. 1550, penitential hymn)
Oxford University Press
Francis Poulenc (1899–1963): QUATRE PETITES PRIÈRES DE SAINT FRANÇOIS D'ASSISE (Francis of Assisi)
2. Tout puissant
3. Seigneur, je vous en prie
Salabert Editions
Moritz Hauptmann (1792–1868): SECHS LIEDER AUS F. OSERS NATURLIEDERN FÜR VIERSTIMMIGEN MÄNNERCHOR
2. Sommermorgen (Friedrich Heinrich Oser)
Carus Verlag
Robert Schumann (1810–1856): SECHS LIEDER FÜR VIERSTIMMIGEN MÄNNERCHOR, Op. 33
3. Die Lotosblume (Heinrich Heine)
Edition Peters
Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1809–1847): ABENDSTÄNDCHEN, Op. 75:2 (Joseph von Eichendorff)
Breitkopf & Härtel

GRAND PRIX
Josquin des Prez (1450–1521): MISSA LA SOL FA RE MI
1. Kyrie (liturgical exclamation)
Koninklikje Verenigin Voor Nederlandse Muziekgeschiedenis
Thomas Tallis (1505–1585): O LORD, IN THEE IS ALL MY TRUST (penitential hymn)
Oxford University Press
Max Reger (1873–1956): NEUN AUSGEWÄHLTE VOLKSLIEDER
5. Ich ging durch einen grasgrünen Wald (German folksong)
Universal Edition A.G. Wien
Robert Schumann (1815–1883): ICH HALTE IHR DIE AUGEN ZU, Op. 30: 8 (Heinrich Heine)
Carus Verlag                                     
Georg David Weiss (1921–2010)/Gregor Meyer (1974): WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD (Bob Thiele)
Unpublished

 

Gallina female vocal group, Slovenia

art. dir. Ana Erčulj

Ladies' vocal quartet Gallina was founded at the end of 2010. The group devotes special attention to Slovenian (folk) music, diverse choral music from the Renaissance to the contemporary period, music of the golden era of Slovenian popular song (1960s), as well as vocal jazz and pop compositions. The vocation Gallina follows and considers of great importance is also encouraging young composers to write new choral pieces, thus enriching the treasury of compositions for female voices. The group has collected a notable record of achievements, the most recent of which are: a Gold plaque of excellence at the Regional competition of adult choirs and vocal groups 2013 (Slovenia), a Gold plaque and a special recognition award (best vocal group) at Naša pesem 2014 (Slovenia) and two second prizes at international choral competition Polifonico 2014 (Italy). In 2014, their first record, Kurje gospe (Hen Ladies), was released. In Gallina, four female voices meet: Manca Simonič (soprano), Urška Banovec (soprano), Ana Plemenitaš (alto) and Višnja Fičor (alto), under the artistic leadership of Ana Erčulj.


Gallina, Slovenia, art. dir. Ana Erčulj

OPENING CONCERT
Borut Lesjak (1931–1995)/Nada Žgur: NE ČAKAJ NA MAJ (Fran Milčinski - Ježek)
Žgur Pro
Jože Privšek (1937–1998)/Matija Krečič (1988): NE PRIŽIGAJ LUČI V TEMI (Gregor Strniša)
Unpublished
Mojmir Sepe (1930)/Mario Rijavec (1921–2006): ZEMLJA PLEŠE (Gregor Strniša)
Unpublished

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl – Gallus (1550–1591): PUERI CONCINNITE (OM: 1/58)
Astrum
Emil Adamič (1877–1936): PO SLOVESU (Ivan N. Resman)
Novi akordi
Ambrož Čopi (1973): JNJYN ĆEWA JTI GNÄ' (folksong from Bila, Resia)
Astrum

FREE PROGRAM
Thomas Morley (1557–1602): HO, WHO COMES HERE! (madrigal)
CPDL
Peter Iljič Čajkovski (1840–1893): BEZ PORI, DA BEZ VREMENI (N. G. Cyganov)
CPDL
Otto Olsson (1879–1964): DE TEMPORE VERNALI, op. 54, 1
II. Tempus adest floridum (/anonymus)
Gehrmans Musikförlag
Marij Kogoj (1892–1956): METULJČEK (Dragotin Kette)
ZKOS/JSKD
Andrej Makor (1987): PREPROSTA LJUBEZEN
3. Cinca Marinca (Fran Milčinski - Ježek)
Unpublished, new composition

GRAND PRIX
Peter Iljič Čajkovski (1840–1893): BEZ PORI, DA BEZ VREMENI (N. G. Cyganov)
CPDL
Andrej Makor (1987): ISTRSKA (Neža Maurer)
Unpublished, new composition
Pavle Merkù (1927–2014): ZELENI POLOG (folksong from Bila, Resia)
CPDL
Stephen Hatfield (1956): LAS AMARILLAS (mehiška tradicionalna/Mexican traditional)
Boosey and Hawkes

 

Palaestra Vocalensemble, Sweden

art. dir. Cecilia Martin-Löf

Ensemble was formed by conductor Cecilia Martin-Löf in 2009 to bring young, trained singers with a background in choral music together. The members have varied between 10-16 singers and many of the singers are students at Malmö Academy of Music, and the choir is a part of Odeum, the music department at Lunds University. The repertoire is varied, and the ensemble often performs choral music for 12-16 parts. In the last few years Palaestra Vocal Ensemble has performed works by composers including Jean-Yves Daniel-Lesur, Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, Benjamin Britten, Vaughan Williams and Bo Holten. The ensemble is a project based choir and gives approximately five concerts each year. The last few years the choir has travelled to The Netherlands, twice to Germany and in the spring of 2014 to California together with Lunds Academic Choir and Orchestra to give concerts. In the autumn of 2014 Palaestra Vocal Ensemble staged a "circus-opera", in collaboration with a director, choreographer, three circus artists and a small baroque ensemble. The opera, "Natt till dag" (Night to day), was a piece created by the members of the ensemble, including music from early baroque to contemporary music.


Palaestra Vocal Ensemble, Sweden, art. dir. Cecilia Martin-Löf

OPENING CONCERT
Cecilia Martin-Löf (1974): TRI IMPROVIZACIJE NA ŠVEDSKE LJUDSKE PESMI (three improvisations on Swedish folksongs)
Unpublished

COMPULSORY PROGRAM
Jacobus Handl Gallus (1550–1591): MIRABILE MYSTERIUM (OM: 1/54)
MAMS SAZU, Ljubljana
Max Reger (1973–1916): NACHTLIED, Op. 138, no. 3 (Petrus Herbert)
Carus-Verlag
Staffan Lindberg (1966): SLÅTTERVISA (Swedish folksong)

FREE PROGRAM
Thomas Tallis (1505–1585): O SACRUM CONVIVIUM (/liturgical text)
Novello & Co. Ltd.
Folke Rabe (1935): TO LOVE (E. E. Cummings)
 št./nb. 3., 4., 5 
Edition Reimers
Sven-Erik Bäck (1919–1994): SILVER OCH JAG (Juan R. Jimenez)
Våren
NMS
Benjamin Britten (1913–1976): A. M. D. G. (Gerard Manley Hopkins)
1. O Deus, ego amo te
Faber                                                     

GRAND PRIX
Benjamin Britten (1913–1976): A. M. D. G. (Gerard Manley Hopkins)
1. O Deus, ego amo te
Faber
Wilhelm Peterson-Berger (1867 - 1942): 8 SÅNGER Op. 11
Stemning - Alle, alle alle de voksende Skygger har vaevet (Jens Peter Jacobsen)
Gehrmans Musikförlag
Jacobus Handl Gallus (1550–1591): EXULTATE DEO ADIUTORI NOSTRO (OM: 3/46, Ps 81, 2–4)
MAMS SAZU, Ljubljana
Francis Poulenc (1899–1963): SEPT CHANSONS
1. La blanche neige (Guillaume Apollinaire)
2. A peine défigurée (Paul Éluard)
Durand

 


CANTUS ANTE OMNIA


Founded by its conductor Snežana Ponoš in August 2007 as an association of choir enthusiasts, their aim is to gather and educate young singers and to contribute to the increasingly enhancing picture of Croatian choir scene at home and abroad through a diverse and artistically challenging repertoire.
Fifteen girls of various ages and occupations sing in the choir, building friendships through systematic work in a noble musical atmosphere. The choir's repertoire consists of valuable pieces of artistic and folklore heritage from different periods, geographical areas, languages and dialects. Recently, successful adaptations of popular, gospel and jazz music were included, and the choir has shown particular sensibility in interpreting contemporary pieces.
Performing regularly, Cantus Ante Omnia also won a number of prizes: the 56th Europees Muziekfestival Voor de Jeugd (Neerpelt, Belgium), the 27th Internationaler Franz Schubert Choirwettbewerb (Vienna, Austria, 2010), Praga Cantat (2012), 1st European Choir Games (2013), Rimini International Choral Competition (2014).

Program:
·         Branko Starc: Da san tica (Stana Klanac - Tulić )
·         Žan Jakopač/ Joško Ćaleta: Di je, nije (Croatian folksong)
·         Slavko Zlatić: Biži, biži maglina (folktext from Istria)


INGENIUM ENSEMBLE


INGENIUM ENSEMBLE was founded in autumn 2009. It consists of young experienced singers who aspire for excellence through classical and modern performances and presenting new works. Therefore, they regularly perfect their skills: on VOCES8 master class at 2012 Europa Cantat festival in Turin, with Stephen Connolly (King's Singers) and Emma Kirkby in 2013, and the German ensemble Singer Pur.
Ingenium has accomplished topmost international achievements: absolute winners in Bad Ischl (Austria) in 2013, second prize, the audience award and special award by Amarcord ensemble at International A Cappella Competition in Leipzig (Germany) in 2014, first prizes in vocal groups and renaissance categories at 2014 Polifonico competition in Arezzo (Italy), as well as victories in sacred and profane categories and the audience award in Tolosa (Spain), 2014.
In 2014 they released their first album “Ingenium”. The group also presented itself abroad at singing festivals in Croatia, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and France. In January 2015, Ingenium Ensemble was awarded the Golden Emblem for outstanding achievements by the Public Fund of Slovenia for Cultural Activities.

 

Members:
Mirjam Strmole, Zala Strmole (soprano), Blaž Strmole, Domen Anžlovar (tenor), Matjaž Strmole (baritone), Jan Kuhar (bass).

email: info.maribor@jskd.si, phone: +386 (1) 24 10 525 / +386 (2) 23 42 117 / +386 (1) 24 10 506