8 UCW OCTOBER 21-27, 2009
WWW.UPANDCOMINGWEEKLY.COM
The Cumberland Oratorio Singers will bring their unique classical
style to Aaran Lake Baptist Church on Oct. 24.
You may have heard of the Cumberland Oratorio Singers before, but
do you know the group's history?
The instruments used in
classical music are still used in the
music of today. One of the most
famous and influential people of
the classical world is Wolfgang
Amadeus Mozart. Born in
Austria during the 17th century,
Mozart became a child prodigy
and learned through the musical
teachings of his father how to
compose and play music. His
travels included Italy and France,
where he broadened his knowledge
of composing, playing instruments
and performing for audiences.
At the very young age of 35, the
incomparable Mozart passed away
due to illness. The year 1991
marked the 200th anniversary of
the death of Mozart.
In commemoration, Alan
Porter, long-time conductor of
the organization, suggested that
a group of volunteer singers develop a chorus to celebrate the life of
Mozart along with an orchestra. On Nov. 20, 1991 Mozart's "Requiem
Mass in D Minor" was performed and became an instant hit in the
Fayetteville area. Captured by the eagerness and passion of the chorus,
Porter decided to create a performing musical group.
Volunteer singers audtioned, and along with selected orchestra
members from around North Carolina and guest soloists, the COS was
formed. Since that momentous day the COS has sung every season
and made various appearances throughout the Cumberland County
area. The repertoire of the COS includes Bach's "Mass in B Minor,"
Mendelssohn's "Elijah," Rutter's "Requiem," and many other oratorios
and shorter choral works.
Each year people are allowed to audition to become a member of
the COS with anticipation to display their talents. Auditions are held at
Methodist University in the Reeves Auditorium. To show appreciation
for the wonderful singers who dedicate their time and voices, there
is the Cumberland Oratorio Singers Choral Award. Within Methodist
University there have been 13 illustrious singers who have received the
award. These awards are given to Methodist University students who
participate in the chorus.
Michael Martin is the artistic director for the COS. Martin
came to the Carolina's from Maine with music in his veins. He
is also the Director of Choral A ctivities and Music Education at
Methodist University.
The COS has found a new home — the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.
The singers have a philosophy of delivering "concerts to the community."
In its first concert of the season, the group will perform "Requiem
by Gabriel Fauré." Tickets at the door are $12 and for students with ID
admission is free. The COS will also present a Christmas concert which
is free and open to the public.
For more information please contact COS President Mary Potter at
(910)-630-7153 or Director Michael Martin at (910)-630-7153.
KIA SAMUELS, Staff Writer
COMMENTS? 484-6200 ext. 222 or e-mail
editor@upandcomingweekly.com
Oratorio Singers Bring Classics to Fayetteville
by KIA SAMUELS
Michael Martin, artistic director for the
Cumberland Oratorio Singers
