Role

:

Ensemble

Genre

:

Choral

 

The William Ferris Chorale is a classical music ensemble based in Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 1971 by William Ferris, the group has become known for its innovative programming and commitment to contemporary music. William Ferris, a composer and conductor, had a vision for a choral ensemble that would perform a wide range of music, from the Renaissance to the present day. He assembled a group of singers who shared his passion for music and his dedication to excellence. The ensemble quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality performances and adventurous programming. Over the years, the William Ferris Chorale has attracted some of the finest singers in the Chicago area. The group's membership has included both amateur and professional musicians, all of whom share a love of choral music. The ensemble has also collaborated with a number of prominent soloists and instrumentalists, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Lyric Opera of Chicago. One of the highlights of the William Ferris Chorale's career was its performance of Benjamin Britten's War Requiem in 1984. The piece, which was written to commemorate the dead of World War I, is a complex and challenging work that requires a large chorus, soloists, and orchestra. The William Ferris Chorale rose to the occasion, delivering a powerful and moving performance that earned critical acclaim. Another notable performance by the William Ferris Chorale was its 1991 concert at the Ravinia Festival. The program featured works by American composers, including Aaron Copland, Samuel Barber, and William Schuman. The ensemble's performance was praised for its energy and precision, and it helped to establish the William Ferris Chorale as one of the leading choral ensembles in the United States. In addition to its performances, the William Ferris Chorale has also been recognized for its recordings. The group's 1995 album, "The Spirit of America," was nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Choral Performance category. The album features works by American composers, including Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copland, and Samuel Barber. Throughout its history, the William Ferris Chorale has remained committed to its mission of promoting choral music and supporting contemporary composers. The group has commissioned numerous works by living composers, including John Corigliano, Augusta Read Thomas, and Stacy Garrop. The ensemble has also performed works by lesser-known composers, helping to bring their music to a wider audience. In recent years, the William Ferris Chorale has faced some challenges. The death of William Ferris in 2000 was a significant loss for the group, and it took some time for the ensemble to regroup and find a new direction. However, under the leadership of music director Paul French, the group has continued to thrive. French, who joined the ensemble in 2003, has brought a fresh perspective and a renewed energy to the group. Today, the William Ferris Chorale remains one of the leading choral ensembles in the United States. The group's commitment to excellence and innovation has earned it a loyal following and a reputation for excellence. With a new generation of singers and musicians, the ensemble is poised to continue its legacy of promoting choral music and supporting contemporary composers for many years to come.

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