CHANSON - A New Group

This group has the tone quality and blend that most of us can only dream about. Plus, each singer is a soloist although one, tenor Micah Lamb, stands out just a bit above the rest. Hearing the long, sustained phrasing of this group is an absolute joy. You can neither hear or see where breathing is taking place--yet we know it's there somewhere. Their diction is superb with the uniform vowel sounds and the crisp consonants which are the trademark of any really good group. And, their dynamics are fantastic. Rhythmically it is astonishing to consider that the difficult music they presented was done without a conductor--and this is the sign of a true "ensemble." Technically they are one of the best groups I have ever heard. The only negative factor in their performance was a very minor problem with pitch which I think you could attribute to the chapel where they sang. It took them a song or two to adjust to the room and the audience, because after that there were no problems.

The group also includes composers who are writing some of the most interesting, enjoyable music for male voices that I have heard in some time. Original music by Aaron Zinter and an arrangement by J. Aaron McDermid showcase some really new ideas for men. Zinter has two songs: Sanctus and Love Divine, which are outstanding. I'm not sure if they are published but I am searching for information on this. The second piece is originally SATB and I'm not sure if it is published in either that voicing or for a male ensemble. McDermid's arrangement of Come Sing to Me of Heaven would be a great piece for a massed chorus. Again, I am trying to find out if it has been published. If not, it should be. I also talked to these two young men about entering our composition competition. They are interested.

The repertoire of Chanson covers every style and period of music. They sing all equally well. They opened with the Kenneth Jennings arrangement of Rise Up O Men of God which I think most choruses have performed. I wish my group could sing it like they did! There are several songs that are worth considering for our groups although they are all difficult but worth looking at. (I have not seen the scores.) Unfortunately I don't have publication information on any of them but I will try and get it and pass it on. The program was severely lacking in this important information. Here is a short list:

• In Natali Domine.....anonymous 15th Century
     Interesting piece from the Renaissance period. Some difficult runs.
  
• Black Is the Color of My True Love's Hair.....arr. Stuart Churchill
     The best arrangement I have ever heard of this folk song. Very difficult.
  
• She is My Slender Small Love.....Eric H. Thiman
     Beautiful but very difficult made so by the contemporary intervals and chords.
  
• Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho.....(done as an encore, arranger not listed on program)
     The most fantastic arrangement of this piece I have ever heard! Extremely difficult as it has been given a more contemporary setting. This is one that probably only professional groups can perform.

Hold On!.....Eugene Simpson
Ubi Caritas.....Maurice Durfle
Steal Away.....arr. Robert Scholz
I Hear a Voice a Prayin'.....Houston Bright

This concert and group were a real musical treat. If you get a chance to hear them, don't pass it up--like I almost did. If you can schedule them in concert in your area you will also have a very strong singing model for your chorus. Chanson -- keep them in mind.

DWCrouch
2/23/04

Update From Web Manager (Feb 2004): Check these links for Chanson:     (Feb 2005) These links are old and I have deleted them - see new links in next table.     (The music links are great, but short, and give you an idea of the superb sound and musicianship of this group. Try them out - they require an MP3 Player -- the best are Apple QuickTime or Windows MediaPlayer.)