Southern Oregon Repertory singers to perform “To the End in Songs” concert
By KOBI-TV NBC5
This weekend, the Southern Oregon Repertory Singers will perform “To the End in Songs”– a program that delves into the idea of transformation from discord into harmony. Those working closely with the concert hope to spark conversation and inspire a sense of connection.
Coming from England, Dr. Peter Relph’s “To the End in Songs”– of which the concert received its namesake– is a piece that Relph says looks toward inner peace.
“So, it’s going to be a beautiful nice soothing work, and I’m hoping people find it nice and reflective,” says Dr. Relph.
The concert features “To the End in Songs” by Dr. Relph, and continues with “The Stranger Among You: Songs of Exile and Home,” by Jodi French– pieces that progress between a journey from conflict to inner peace in the first half, and an exploration of home and groups of people learning to get along in the second half.
“You were just talking about social media and how it’s driven people apart– so much of that’s happening in the world, and we wanted to do a piece that talked about what we have in common. Common humanity, and kindness and compassion– things you would think everyone would want, but we seem to have forgotten how to do it, so this piece is a reminder of what brings us together,” says Southern Oregon Repertory Singers’ Music Director, Dr. Paul French.
The works are set for choir and orchestra and feature internationally-renowned baritone soloist, Christopheren Nomura.
Both concerts take place at SOU’s recital hall on Saturday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 10 at 2:00 p.m.. Sunday’s performance can also be watched via livestream.
Both composers– Dr. Relph and Jodi French– will be available for a Q&A session following the concert. Among the topics of conversation, Dr. Relph and Dr. French hope the audience can discuss the role music plays in their lives and how the music moves them.
To see the full program and to get tickets, click here.
Original article including video of interview with Dr. Peter Relph and Dr. Paul French: https://kobi5.com/features/sunrise/southern-oregon-repertory-singers-to-perform-to-the-end-in-songs-concert-307256/