Recently, I had the pleasure of joining host Finley Woolston on The Choral Tradition, broadcast on Public Radio East’s Classical Station, for a conversation about choral music and the many ways it connects singers and listeners across traditions, seasons, and communities.
During the program, we explored a selection of recordings that highlight both sacred repertoire and expressive contemporary arranging, featuring ensembles and singers from my work with the University of Arizona and the Tucson Interfaith Choir and Orchestra:
• I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked (arr. Brandon Stewart), Tucson Interfaith Choir
• Winter by Tori Amos (arr. Fiona Lander), University of Arizona Treble Glee, with Jazz Caley and Kieryn Zizzo, soloists
• Ave verum corpus by William Byrd, University of Arizona Recital Choir
• Abendlied by Felix Mendelssohn, University of Arizona Treble Glee
• Kiddush by Kurt Weill, University of Arizona Recital Choir, with Dane Carten, soloist
Together, these selections reflect a wide expressive landscape including pilgrimage and devotion, memory and stillness, Renaissance clarity, Romantic warmth, and the rich cultural voice of twentieth century sacred art song. It was a joy to share the stories behind these pieces and the ensembles who brought them to life.
I am grateful to Finley Woolston and the team at Public Radio East for the opportunity to talk about this music and the communities that make it possible. I hope you enjoy listening to the conversation as much as I enjoyed being part of it.