The Grand Forks Master Chorale will present a free concert on February 7, 2024, at 19:30 local time at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, located at 319 S. Fifth St. This event, titled “The Master Chorale’s Greatest Hits Giving Hearts Day Concert,” aims to celebrate the spirit of generosity associated with Giving Hearts Day.
Artistic director Dean Jilek indicated that the concert will feature a selection of popular choral pieces from the group’s past performances. “I picked pieces from past concerts that we have done before,” Jilek noted. “We’ve done so many great hits.”
Audiences can expect to hear a mix of cherished songs, including “Dancing Queen” by ABBA, famously featured in the 2008 film “Mamma Mia!” Other highlights include Stevie Wonder’s “I Just Called to Say I Love You,” the fourth movement of Brahms’ Requiem, “Dirait-on” from Morten Lauridsen’s “Les Chansons de la Rose,” and selections of Appalachian music. Jilek emphasized that the concert will reflect the diverse musical landscape that the Master Chorale represents.
“This is a fun way to represent what Master Chorale is about; we do all genres – and this is who we are in the community,” Jilek explained. The concert serves as a heartfelt thank-you to the community and offers an opportunity to enjoy music that has resonated with audiences for years, according to the event’s official website.
The Master Chorale has not established a specific fundraising goal for this year’s Giving Hearts Day. However, they have successfully raised $3,000 in match funds to qualify for the program. Attendees wishing to support the choir can make donations during the concert.
Founded in 1983, the 32-member Master Chorale is an auditioned regional choir that has performed extensively throughout the northern Red River Valley, primarily in churches. The organization also plans to present a masterwork concert this spring, featuring James MacMillan’s “Cantos Sagrados Deliverance” on May 2 and 3.
As the Master Chorale gears up for this celebratory concert, community members are encouraged to attend and experience an uplifting evening of music in honor of Giving Hearts Day.
