Miami is a unique blend of Hispanic, Hatian, and American traditions. Today you will hear a celebration of our city, its rhythm, its people and their passion, creativity, and perseverance. In the process, we will celebrate not only aspects of the general culture, but also the individuals who have shaped us.
PROGRAM
Soy La Rumba - Adalberto Alvarez (1949-2021); arr. Lazaro Alonso (b. 2003)
Featuring Miranda Urdaneta
During the second half of the 19th century, several secular dance-oriented music styles were developed by Afro-Cuban workers in the poor neighborhoods of Havana and Matanzas. One of these different styles would later be referred to as "rumba", a word that also means "party."
We open our set right where we left off at last year's FMEA performance. Although a different version of this choir performed it at the 2023 FMEA conference, we felt it was important it to share it to a broader audience.
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In the musical Into the Woods, the audience is presented with the reality that wishes really do come true. However, not by wishing on a star, but rather, in the form of our children, who listen to the words we say, and the actions we take. With this next selection, we do not take sides, we simply ask our audience to consider the wisdom of Stephen Sondheim's "Children Will Listen."
Children Will Listen - Stephen Sondheim (1930–2021); arr. Jacob Narverud (b. 1986)
Featuring Leticia Rodriguez
How do you say to a child in the night, “Nothing’s all black, but then nothing’s all white?” How do you say “Iit will all be alright” when you know that it might not be true?What do you do?
Careful the things you say, children will listen. Careful the things you do, children will see, and learn.
Children may not obey, but children will listen.
Children will look to you for which way to turn, to learn what to be. Careful before you say, “listen to me.”
Children will listen!
Careful the wish you make, wishes are children.
Careful the path they take, wishes come true, not free.
Careful the spell you cast, not just on children.
Sometimes the spell may last past what you can see and turn against you!
Careful the tale you tell, that is the spell.
Children will listen.
Guide them but step away, children will glisten.
Temper with what is true, and children will turn, if just to be free.
Careful before you say “listen to me.” Children will listen.
Children will listen.
Children will listen.
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As mentioned in our ensemble biography, it is our goal to expand the traditional role of the treble ensemble.
Dixit Dominus is a setting of Psalm 110 which Handel composed in 1707, when he was only 22. It is well-known as one of Handel's most challenging pieces for SATB chorus and orchestra. Today we present the first movement of the eight movement work reimagined for treble voices by Lazaro Alonso. We hope you enjoy the premiere of this brand new setting of an old classic.
Dixit Dominus (HWV 232) - G. F. Handel (1685 - 1759)
Featuring Emily Garcia and Sophia Yabrudy
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While Miami is rich in many things, it is also home to thousands who are impoverished, sick, struggling, and marginalized. Additionally, the choir members are first and second generation immigrants and have grown up listening to their parents and grandparents speak of intense struggle, perseverance, hope and joy as they recount their journey in search of a better life for their descendants.
We sing this next selection to give a voice to the voiceless and to honor our heritage and that of anyone seeking a life free from tyranny or bondage.
We invite you to sing along with us in the last chorus!
A Change is Gonna Come - Sam Cooke (1931–1964); arr. Tehillah Alphonso (b. 1998)
Featuring Camila Rodriguez
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With Sydney’s blessing, I asked an alumnus of this very ensemble to voice this well-known Guillaume piece for SSAA. Vania Junco, a now graduate of the composition program at University of Miami’s Frost School of Music (just like Sydney!), accepted the challenge and arranged the version we present to you today. This SSAA version of Kanaval will be available for purchase at www.sydneyguillaume.com later this year.
Kanaval - Sydney Guillaume (b. 1982) Featuring Madison Ginebra; Eric Rucker, percussion
Tap HERE for Lyrics and Translation
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Thank you to ACDA for the invitation to perform today. We are eternally grateful for our MAS Vocal parents and the MAS administration, Dr. Balsera, Mrs. Annie Diaz, and Mrs. Patricia Fleri for their tireless daily support. Finally, thank you to the incredible musicians that helped shape today’s program:
Mr. Ryan Ellis, Mrs. Deborah Mar, Mr. Shanpatrick Davis, Dr. Amanda Quist, Dr. Jason Max Ferdinand, Dr. Ken Boos, Mr. Lazaro Alonso, and Ms. Vania Junco.