University Chorale

Elements

Elements is set of choral works that abstractly depict the four classical elements and explores the wide range of capabilities of the human voice – from overtone singing, to vocal percussion, to colourful vocal timbres. Elements features no ‘text’ (at least not in the traditional sense), rather a series of syllables generated through improvisation meant to evoke the sound and energy of each element.

Elements was premiered in March 2014 by Laurier Singers under Lee Willingham. This set of works is a 2016 SOCAN Young Composers Competition winner, a 2015 Vancouver Chamber Choir’ Young Composers’ Competition winner, and a 2014 IAWM Search For New Music winner.

Earth is a beautiful, texturally-driven work depicting the simple yet unexplainable beauty of the earth. The work features harmonic overtone singing by a group of soloists; an accessible introduction to overtone singing in a choral setting.

Air traces the movement from calm breath to thick violent winds. Together singers gradually introduce new sounds and pitches, building an intricate texture with ever-shifting emphasis.

Fire is a fun, lively, and energetic work incorporating vocal percussion, body percussion, nasal singing, calls, nonsense syllables, as well as optional percussion.

Water presents powerful soaring textures and lilting melodies that grow and decay like waves in the ocean.

The mission of the UNCG Choirs is dedicated to the teaching, performance, study and cultivation of choral music of the highest quality representing not just the western choral canon but also choral music of other cultures by a diverse body of historical and new composers. We believe that the UNCG Choirs are a serious and distinctive medium of musical expression, of vital service and importance to its members and to UNCG. Through ensemble performance, we strive to create an environment of trust, communication, and expressive freedom, to present outstanding performances throughout the year, and to enhance the institutional sprit and character of UNCG. To music as an art and a profession, the UNCG Choirs seek to bring increasing artistry, understanding, and respect by efforts within our own immediate sphere and by providing leadership and sponsorship to school choral programs and through cooperation with all other agencies pursuing similar musical goals.