The Crossing looks at the role of the mother, at the Nativity, and far beyond. Donald Nally leads one of the world’s premiere contemporary choirs through music that asks questions, from David Lang’s hauntingly beautiful where you go (after the Book of Ruth, 2015), to Toivo Tulev’s soaring And then in silence there with Me be only You (2002). The concert includes a world premiere by Aaron Helgeson based on Kazim Ali’s translation of Marguerite Duras’ L’Amour.
The centerpiece of the program is Kevin Puts’ choral cycle To Touch the Sky (2012), on writings of Sappho, Mother Teresa, Mirabai, Amy Lowell, Edna St. Vincent Millay, Christina Rosetti, and Hildegard of Bingen. This contemplative, rich program also featuring the U.S. premiere of David Lang’s last spring, written in memory of Marion Boulton “Kippy” Stroud, founder of Philadelphia’s Fabric Workshop.
We’re so proud of our partnership with The Crossing, that we’re offering two chances to hear this program! Listen Christmas Eve at 6 pm on WRTI HD-2, and on WRTI-FM at 4 pm Christmas Day. Of course, both broadcasts are available on the all-Classical stream at WRTI.org.