Darkness & Light

The Program

A Solstice Celebration

Every culture that has ever endured a winter has arrived at the same two words: darkness and light. They are conditions for one another. A candle is only visible because of what surrounds it. The year’s shortest days are precisely the days people decide to light something.

The winter solstice reminds us that even in the darkness there is light, and still more light to come: each day we get just a bit closer to the sun again. On this concert, Ars Nova Singers presents a selection of mysteriously moving music for the winter holidays: a program balancing novelty, tradition, and familiar melodies with innovative new sounds. Celebrate the season with a convergence of luminous medieval harmonies, joyous Renaissance motets, and favorite carols in sparkling new arrangements.

We’re pleased to share the stage once again with percussionist and vibraphonist Gavin Kitchen, principal percussionist of the Longmont Symphony, percussionist for the Plein Aire Sound Collective, and regular perforer in regional and pit orchestras. Come help us make the season bright!

FEATURED MUSIC:

Ave Maria, O auctrix vitae – Hildegard of Bingen

This gentil day daws – Anon. English carol (15th century)

Lully, Lulla, Lullay – Philip Stopford

Ave Maris Stella – Trond Kverno

Sun Quilt – Gabriela Lena Frank

The Rune of Hospitality – Alf Houkom