On Sunday, October 27th, the Greater South Jersey Chorus and Chamber Singers, under the baton of Artistic Director Dr. Christopher Thomas and conductor Art McKenzie, captivated their audience with a beautifully curated program titled Untraveled Worlds: Landscapes From Within. Set against the evocative backdrop of the historic Scottish Rite Auditorium in Collingswood, NJ, the performance showcased the ensemble’s remarkable ability to weave sonorous harmonies into a rich tapestry of sound, transporting listeners on an introspective journey through music.
The concert commenced with the mesmerizing sounds of the 29-voiced Chamber Choir, masterfully led by Mr. Mckenzie. Their performance offered a stunning exploration of the diverse compositional styles encapsulated in the works of Nordic composers. The choir’s rendition of Friendship, crafted by Anders Edenroth of the esteemed vocal jazz ensemble The Real Group, showcased Edenroth’s signature flair. With a vibrant Latin jazz beat propelling the piece, the choir wove a soulful melody that enveloped the eager audience.
The Chamber Choir was joined by members of the larger chorus, swelling the ensemble to an impressive 120+ voices. Accompanied by a chamber strings ensemble, they embarked on a profound journey through Jake Runnestad’s signature piece, The Lighthouse Keeper. This five-movement work, while often interpreted as a meditation on life’s final chapters, is, as paraphrased by Dr. Thomas, fundamentally a celebration of the richness and profound experiences that life offers. Each movement is a carefully crafted poem, enticing the listeners to traverse the landscape of human existence. Through vivid imagery and poignant moments shared with loved ones, the piece reveals the understated beauty of life, urging audiences to reflect on what truly matters. As the melody flowed, the audience was led through a contemplation of mortality. When the light of eternity begins to call one home, the listener is reminded to cherish the invaluable moments and connections forged during life’s journey, recognizing that in the end, it’s not the material possessions we carry forward, but rather the memories and love we share with others that illuminate our path to infinity.
The Greater South Jersey Chorus should be commended for their fine preparation, exquisite tone, and professional presentation. They are truly a beautiful representation of choral excellence within the South Jersey community.
