Much like the delicious combination of contrasting tastes of a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup blending music from one genre by performance in another can often result in a stunning reinterpretation of the original source material.
Take for instance Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings. Originally the second movement from his String Quartet, Op.11, the 1936 work was set by Mr. Barber almost 30 years later for mixed chorus. The resulting work, Agnus Dei, has become a stunning addition to the choral repertoire of the 20th century.
Here is a somewhat lighter approach to the idea from an ACDA national conference. The operatic duet has been edited for a choir of young voices, who perform the work with a bit of theatrical flourish. As you are beginning to ponder next year’s repertoire (sorry, kids, it's time to look ahead), perhaps something of this nature might prove a valuable addition to your programming.
Linda Staiger says