Kenneth Kiesler, conductor
Christina Parson, soprano
Grace Ryan, mezzo-soprano
Kenneth Sieloff, tenor
Jonathan Lasch, bass
University Symphony Orchestra, Kenneth Kiesler, Music Director
University Chamber Choir, Eugene Rogers, Director
University Choir, Matthew Abernathy, Director
Orpheus Singers

PROGRAM
Ozie Cargile, Event Horizon (World Premiere)
Verdi, Requiem

It has been said that the Requiem is Verdi’s greatest opera – high praise for a piece by one of the greatest Italian opera composers. Along with the powerful, striking, high drama and theatricality, there is the long shadow of ancient Gregorian chant and sacred a cappella choral music of the Renaissance as well as whispered prayers and heartfelt pleas. This monumental and transformative work – for large orchestra, chorus, and four soloists – is one of the most powerful and moving expressions of the human spirit.

This extraordinary evening will open with the world premiere of Event Horizon, a Fanfare for Orchestra by SMTD alumnus Ozie Cargile, whose magnum opus, Creation of the Universe, was recorded by the Detroit Symphony.

USO Music Director Kenneth Kiesler conducts the University Symphony Orchestra, University Chamber Choir, University Choir, and Orpheus Singers with soloists, Jiayu Li, Grace Ryan, Kenneth Sielhoff, and Jonathan Lasch.

Event Horizon is the 6th annual commission of SMTD’s Michigan Orchestra Repertoire for Equity initiative (MORE).