"Choral Spectrum III" is the last in a remarkable choral trilogy by Iowa State's most select undergraduate choral ensemble, 19 songs from the Singers' repertoire from 2007-2008. The group's emphasis on a cappella renditions of classical Christian pieces is well-represented by "Si ch'io vorrei morire" by Monteverdi, Heinrich Schutz' "Ich bin die Auferstehung," Hans Leo Hassler's "Dixit Maria," Igor Stravinsky's "Ave Maria," Herbert Howells' "Requiem aeternam I," Peter Warlock's "Benedicamus Domino," Frank Martin's "Sanctus Benedictus" and others. A pair of Moses Hogan-arranged spirituals number among our favorites, "Didn't My Lord Deliver Daniel" and "Ezekiel Saw de Wheel," as well as the lovely John Rutter-arranged "Black Sheep," Eric Whitacre's lovely "Lux Aurumque," a pair by Johannes Brahms, "Warum ist das Licht gegeben" and "Tafellied," Gyogy Ligeti's stunning, manic "Reggel," and Guido Lopez-Gavilan's spirited "El Guayaboso." This is difficult, demanding material, but the Singers handle it with effortless grace. An impressive, beautiful collection by one of the best choral ensembles we have heard! |
