University of Arkansas Schola Cantorum
The University of Arkansas Schola Cantorum represents the pinnacle of choral singing in the state of Arkansas. Since 1957, Schola Cantorum has attracted the most talented singers from across the country, and has performed widely, both domestically and internationally. Schola Cantorum is under the direction of Dr. Stephen Caldwell in his fourth year at the University of Arkansas. The 2015-2016 ensemble consists of 46 auditioned undergraduate and graduate students from a broad variety of disciplines at the University of Arkansas. Schola Cantorum performs a variety of musical styles from German Baroque cantatas to opera choruses and modern a cappella works. Schola Cantorum has a rich history of exploring a global repertoire from all eras of music history. Schola Cantorum also frequently collaborates with other university ensembles, including the University Orchestra, Wind Symphony, Master Chorale, and Concert Choir. Upcoming performances will occur at the Faulkner Performing Arts Center, and Walton Arts Center, as well as a concert tour to Belgium in the spring of 2016.
Contents
History
Schola Cantorum [Latin for 'School of Singers'] was founded in 1957 by Professor of Music Richard Brothers. Originally only 32 voices, Schola Cantorum quickly flourished under his baton. In 1962, Schola Cantorum became the first American choir to win the coveted first prize—The Guido d'Arezzo Award—at the prestigious International Polyphonic Competition in Arezzo, Italy.[1][2] In honor of its achievement, Schola Cantorum soon after appeared on NBC TV's "Today Show" and performed for U.S. President John F. Kennedy in the White House Rose Garden.[3] In 1964, the choir was invited to the Vatican in Rome to sing for Pope Paul VI.
World Premiers
1982 - Isabella Leonarda's Messa Prima[4]
2011 - Augusta Read Thomas' Floating Temples[5][6]
2012 - Donald Patriquin's Titanic Requiem
2013 - Stephen Caldwell's Three Meadows
Regional Premieres
2012 - Ola Gjeilo's Evening Prayer
2013 - Stephen Caldwell's Euge Serve
Conductors
1957 - 1976 - Professor Richard Brothers
1977 - 1997 - Dr. Jack Groh
1998 - 2002 - Dr. David Saladino
2003 - 2009 - Dr. Graeme Langager
2009 - 2012 - Dr. Todd Prickett
2012 – Present - Dr. Stephen Caldwell[7]
References
- ↑ John F. Kennedy, [1], The President's News Conference, August 29, 1962 - Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project.
- ↑ Northwest Arkansas Times, [2], University Chorus Wins International Laurels, August 25, 1962
- ↑ John F. Kennedy, [3], Remarks to University of Arkansas Schola Cantorum, September 4, 1962 - Online by John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum.
- ↑ Leonarda, [4], Artist Bios
- ↑ NWA Tuned In, [5], New School Composition with August Read Thomas April 13, 2011
- ↑ Music Department Blog, [6], Two New Works Receive World Premiere Performance Tonight April 15, 2011
- ↑ The City Wire, [7], UA’s Schola Cantorum premieres with new director November 9, 2012
