The University of Texas Arlington's A Cappella Choir is poised for a groundbreaking semester of high-profile collaborations. Three landmark performances alongside renowned conductors and ensembles are planned, highlighting the group's exceptional artistry and cementing its reputation as one of the nation's premier collegiate choral programs.
Under the direction of Karen Kenaston-French, the choir will launch the season with Carl Orff's "Carmina Burana" on Jan. 21 at 7:30 p.m. at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center in Dallas. The performance will feature the nationally celebrated Dallas Winds conducted by Jerry Junkin. Joining forces with the Fort Worth Chorale, East Texas A&M Commerce Chorale and the Greater Dallas Choral Society Children's Chorus, the UTA A Cappella Choir will bring this iconic masterpiece to life in one of the region's most esteemed venues.
The choir will return to the Meyerson Symphony Center on March 22 for the closing concert of the American Choral Directors Association National Convention. Conducted by Jake Runestad, the performance will feature his "Earth Symphony," a compelling work that explores humanity's connection to the natural world. The choir will perform alongside the Baylor Symphony Orchestra, the Baylor University A Cappella Choir and the UT San Antonio Chamber Singers.
The season will conclude with a collaboration with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra and Fort Worth Kantorei in a concert version of Richard Wagner's opera "Der fliegende Holländer." Under the baton of internationally acclaimed conductor Robert Spano, the performances will take place April 11-13 at Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth. This dynamic presentation of Wagner's score marks another milestone for the choir.
"This spring is an incredible opportunity for our students to perform with world-class musicians and conductors," said Dr. Kenaston-French. "These collaborations are a testament to the dedication and talent of our singers and the strong reputation of our program."
The UTA Cappella Choir is the premier choral ensemble at UTA and has garnered national acclaim for its artistry and versatility. Comprising primarily undergraduate and graduate vocal music majors, the choir has performed at some of the most prestigious conferences, including the Texas Music Educators Association, the American Choral Directors Association and the National Collegiate Choral Organization.
Known for its dynamic collaborations, the choir has appeared with renowned organizations such as the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra. Its versatility extends beyond classical music, with memorable appearances alongside legendary rock acts like the Rolling Stones and the Eagles.
