Role

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Ensemble

Genre

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Choral

 

Indianapolis Pro Musica is a classical music ensemble that was founded in 1969 by Charlotte Small and a group of music lovers in Indianapolis, Indiana. The ensemble has since become one of the most respected and renowned chamber choirs in the United States, known for its exceptional performances of choral music from a wide range of eras and styles. The founding of Indianapolis Pro Musica was inspired by a desire to bring high-quality choral music to the Indianapolis community. Charlotte Small, a music educator and choral conductor, had recently moved to Indianapolis and was struck by the lack of opportunities for local residents to experience live choral music. She gathered a group of like-minded individuals and together they formed Indianapolis Pro Musica, with the goal of presenting concerts of the highest artistic quality. The ensemble's early years were marked by a focus on Renaissance and Baroque music, with performances of works by composers such as Monteverdi, Palestrina, and Bach. Over time, the ensemble expanded its repertoire to include music from a wide range of eras and styles, from medieval chant to contemporary works. One of the hallmarks of Indianapolis Pro Musica is its commitment to performing works by living composers. The ensemble has commissioned and premiered numerous works by contemporary composers, including John Harbison, Libby Larsen, and Jake Runestad. This dedication to new music has helped to keep the ensemble's performances fresh and relevant, and has earned it a reputation as a champion of contemporary choral music. The ensemble's main members have changed over the years, but its core has remained consistent. Charlotte Small served as the ensemble's artistic director and conductor for over 30 years, until her retirement in 2001. She was succeeded by Eric Stark, who has led the ensemble to new heights of artistic excellence. The ensemble's roster includes some of the finest choral singers in the Indianapolis area, many of whom are also active as soloists and music educators. Over the years, Indianapolis Pro Musica has performed at some of the most prestigious venues in the United States, including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Ravinia Festival. The ensemble has also collaborated with some of the world's leading orchestras, including the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. One of the highlights of Indianapolis Pro Musica's history was its performance at the 1993 American Choral Directors Association National Convention. The ensemble was selected to perform as one of only four choirs from across the United States, and its performance was widely praised for its artistry and technical precision. In addition to its performances, Indianapolis Pro Musica has also been recognized for its recordings. The ensemble has released several critically acclaimed albums, including a recording of Bach's Mass in B Minor that was named one of the top classical recordings of the year by The New York Times. Throughout its history, Indianapolis Pro Musica has remained committed to its mission of bringing high-quality choral music to the Indianapolis community and beyond. Its performances have inspired and delighted audiences around the world, and its dedication to new music has helped to ensure that the choral tradition continues to thrive in the 21st century.

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