Essential Voices

What is truly essential about singing and making music?

Essential Voices will showcase essential composers from different eras, from Renaissance masters to living composers, offering a dynamic program that reflects the core of choral music. "What we're presenting in Essential Voices isn't just a survey of important composers throughout history," says Joshua Rohde, Artistic Director of RICCO. "We're also asking, what is truly essential about singing and making music? It’s about expressing ourselves, connecting with others, and communicating emotions that go beyond words."

Audiences can expect to hear choral classics from composers like William Byrd, J.S. Bach, and Hildegard von Bingen, paired alongside new works by contemporary composers such as Elaine Hagenberg, Dale Trumbore, and Caroline Shaw. This thoughtful juxtaposition of old and new will create a concert experience that is both timeless and contemporary. The program will weave together early chant, Renaissance motets, and works that have been composed in just the past few years. The concert aims to highlight how these essential voices from the past are still speaking to us today, and how today’s composers are adding their voices to that tradition.

RICCO’s audience has grown to trust the organization to bring them innovative programs that expand their musical horizons, and Essential Voices continues in this tradition. We hope you'll join us!

Host or Publisher Rhode Island Civic Chorale & Orchestra