For too many of us, the past three years brought about separation and disconnection -- even now in our re-emergence, our society is facing an epidemic of loneliness that can only be healed through social connection and community. Communal singing has long provided a strong means of connection both for musicians and their audiences, tying people together with beauty, ritual, and the evocation of shared emotions.
In Enveloped, the 18th Street Singers are leaning into the healing power of music by featuring pieces that either literally or figuratively surround and embrace listeners (to envelop them, if you will). Some of these works divide the choir into an unusually large number of parts letting us encircle the concert space, such as the triple-choir work “Kyrie” from Victoria's Missa Laetatus Sum. Joby Talbott's “Santiago” from Path of Miracles pulls the audience into a physical and spiritual journey painted richly by 17 distinct voice parts.
Other pieces seek to comfort and build connection: “Sofðu unga ástin mín,” a traditional Icelandic lullaby masterfully arranged by Jocelyn Hagen, offers a parent's reassuring embrace to their child in the face of fear. Tallis' “Loquebantur,” Ken Burton's “Many Are the Wonders,” and Joel Thompon's “America Will Be” reflect on the many backgrounds, cultures, and languages that can come together in faith or common purpose -- literally immersing listeners in multiple languages and musical traditions all at once.
Join us Sunday, June 11th (in-person or for our 2nd ever livestream) and Thursday, June 15th (in-person only) for Enveloped: An 18th Street Singers Spring Concert as we wrap, cover, surround completely our community, which is stronger together and gathered in harmony once more.
Holy Trinity Catholic Church
3513 N Street Northwest
Washington, DC 20007
Concert tickets: For this concert series, tickets are available to reserve online and at the door for a suggested donation of $20 for those who are able. Free student, GA, and donate-what-you’d-like ticket options are also available. Reserve your tickets today, mark your calendars, and join our email listserv / follow us on social media to stay up to date with all concert announcements!
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Audience Attire: As those familiar with DC summer weather know, temperatures in June can be on the warmer side. While we will do our best to keep the performance space cool during the concerts, we encourage attendees to opt for cool, casual clothing.