The Seattle Children's Chorus was founded in 1988 by artistic director Kris Mason; whose purpose was to promote a high level of vocal and choral training for young musicians in the Seattle area. The approximately 175 choristers perform formal concerts throughout the year, and the Performing Chorus has toured annually throughout the Northwest, Canada and the West Coast. Other tours have taken them to Britain, and they have appeared at Carnegie Hall. These 21 songs mostly feature the Performing Chorus, with the exception of "The Little Birch Tree," "Simple Gifts" and "This Old Man," which features the Advanced Ensemble, who also sing "All That Hath Life and Breath Praise Ye the Lord." Some other favorites are "Festival Sanctus," "Bist du bei mir," "The Father's Love," "Who Can Sail," "Jabberwocky," the poignant "In Flanders Fields," "Psalm 100," "Agnus Dei," "Dance With Me," "Kalinka" and "The Rhythm of Life." There is light piano accompaniment on most tunes, but the soaring, innocent voices of the children are what "Songs from the Heart" is all about. Beautiful and moving, from first cut to the last! |
