Role

:

Ensemble

 

The Providence Singers is a classical music ensemble based in Providence, Rhode Island. Founded in 1971, the group has become one of the most respected choral organizations in the Northeastern United States. The Providence Singers was founded by a group of music enthusiasts who wanted to create a high-quality choral ensemble in the Providence area. The group's first conductor was Dr. William Appling, who led the ensemble for its first two seasons. In 1973, the group hired its second conductor, Dr. Robert Shaw, who had recently retired as the conductor of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Under Dr. Shaw's leadership, the Providence Singers quickly gained a reputation for excellence. The group's performances were praised for their precision, clarity, and emotional depth. Dr. Shaw also expanded the group's repertoire, introducing the singers to a wide range of classical music, from Bach and Handel to contemporary composers like Leonard Bernstein and Samuel Barber. One of the highlights of the Providence Singers' early years was their performance of Handel's Messiah in 1976. The group's rendition of the famous oratorio was widely praised, and it became an annual tradition for the group to perform Messiah during the holiday season. In 1980, the Providence Singers embarked on their first international tour, performing in England and Scotland. The tour was a great success, and it helped to establish the group's reputation as one of the premier choral ensembles in the United States. Over the years, the Providence Singers has continued to grow and evolve. The group has performed with some of the world's leading orchestras, including the Boston Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic, and the London Symphony Orchestra. They have also collaborated with many of the world's leading conductors, including Seiji Ozawa, Leonard Slatkin, and James Levine. In 1994, the Providence Singers received a major honor when they were invited to perform at the inauguration of Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Almond. The group's performance was widely praised, and it helped to raise the profile of the ensemble throughout the state. In 2001, the Providence Singers celebrated their 30th anniversary with a special concert at the Providence Performing Arts Center. The concert featured a wide range of classical music, including works by Bach, Mozart, and Beethoven. It was a fitting tribute to the group's long and illustrious history. In recent years, the Providence Singers has continued to push the boundaries of choral music. The group has commissioned new works from a wide range of contemporary composers, including John Corigliano, Jennifer Higdon, and Augusta Read Thomas. They have also collaborated with a number of local arts organizations, including the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra and the Trinity Repertory Company. Throughout its history, the Providence Singers has received numerous awards and accolades. In 1991, the group was awarded the Rhode Island Governor's Arts Award for Excellence in the Arts. In 2006, they received the Choral Arts New England Award for Outstanding Contribution to Choral Music. Today, the Providence Singers continues to be a vital and vibrant part of the Rhode Island arts community. The group's performances are eagerly anticipated by music lovers throughout the region, and their commitment to excellence and innovation ensures that they will remain a force in the world of classical music for many years to come.

More....