UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State School of Music, part of the College of Arts and Architecture, will present a full day of choral music on Sunday, Nov. 16, in the School of Music Recital Hall. Three of Penn State’s premier choirs — the University Choir, Oriana Singers and Essence of Joy — will each perform in back-to-back concerts featuring a wide range of styles, traditions and voices.
The day begins at 1:30 p.m. with the University Choir, directed by Christopher Kiver. The ensemble will present a diverse program of choral music spanning centuries and styles, including "Cantate Domino" by Giuseppe Ottavio Pitoni, "Veni Sancte Spiritus" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, "Esta Tierra" by Javier Busto, and "I Am a Voice that Sings" by Michael Bussewitz Quarm.
At 4 p.m., the Oriana Singers, conducted by Emily Wertz and joined by pianist Carolyn Barr, will present an inspiring program celebrating women composers across the centuries. The concert features works by Ramona Luengen, Chiara Margarita Cozzolani, Louise Reichardt, Clara Schumann, Reena Esmail, Marie-Claire Saindon and Andrea Ramsey, offering a moving exploration of the female musical voice throughout history.
The day concludes at 6:30 p.m. with Essence of Joy, under the direction of Arreon A. Harley-Emerson, with Anisa Adkins serving as graduate assistant conductor. Essence of Joy presents a powerful and deeply moving concert that weaves together spirituals, gospel classics, and contemporary works through the story of two grandchildren rediscovering their Nana’s legacy. Told through her letters, diary entries, and the music that shaped her life, the program reflects on family, Black history, resilience, love, memory, and the songs that carry us forward even when both memory and words fade. From Roland Carter’s classic arrangement of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” to provocative works by Undine Smith Moore, Sam Cooke, Brandon Waddles, Robert Fryson, and others, the evening blends performance and narrative to create a semi-dramatic, heartfelt journey. Audiences can expect a celebration of joy, cultural memory, and the enduring power of music to connect generations.
Tickets for the performances are available here.
This event will be available via livestream for those unable to attend in person.