Role

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Ensemble

 

The University of Minnesota Chamber Singers is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their exceptional performances for over 50 years. The ensemble was founded in 1967 by Philip Brunelle, who served as the artistic director and conductor for over four decades. The Chamber Singers is composed of approximately 40 undergraduate and graduate students from the University of Minnesota School of Music. The ensemble is known for its versatility and ability to perform a wide range of repertoire, from Renaissance to contemporary music. The group's members are selected through a rigorous audition process and are required to maintain a high level of musicianship throughout their tenure. Over the years, the Chamber Singers have performed at numerous prestigious venues and events, including the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., the American Choral Directors Association National Conference, and the Minnesota Orchestra's Sommerfest. The ensemble has also collaborated with renowned composers and conductors, such as Dominick Argento, Libby Larsen, and Osmo Vänskä. One of the Chamber Singers' most notable performances was their 1992 tour of Russia, where they performed in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Novgorod. The tour was a significant cultural exchange between the United States and Russia, and the ensemble received critical acclaim for their performances. In addition to their performances, the Chamber Singers have also received numerous awards and accolades throughout their history. In 1987, the ensemble was awarded the prestigious Margaret Hillis Award for Choral Excellence by Chorus America. The award recognized the Chamber Singers' exceptional musicianship and contributions to the choral arts. The Chamber Singers have also released several recordings over the years, including their 1995 album "Christmas with the University of Minnesota Chamber Singers," which features traditional Christmas carols and contemporary arrangements. The album received critical acclaim and has become a holiday favorite for many classical music enthusiasts. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chamber Singers have continued to perform and connect with audiences through virtual concerts and recordings. In 2020, the ensemble released a virtual performance of "The Road Home" by Stephen Paulus, which was dedicated to the memory of Philip Brunelle, who passed away earlier that year. The University of Minnesota Chamber Singers has established itself as one of the premier classical music ensembles in the United States. With their exceptional musicianship, versatility, and dedication to the choral arts, the Chamber Singers continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

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