Community music groups begin rehearsals

The first of the Chadron Community Symphonic Band's weekly rehearsals is scheduled Tuesday, Jan. 19, 7-9 p.m. The will perform one concert later in the semester. The Chadron Community Chorus will begin Thursday, Jan. 21, and continue weekly until concerts Saturday and Sunday, April 17 and 18.

The chorus, which is directed by CSC music faculty member Dr. Una Taylor, will sing “Durufle’s Requiem,” a 20th century piece comprised of nine movements. Taylor described the requiem as a beautiful piece written in Latin for a mixed chorus. It was written by Maurice Durufle, a French composer who lived 1902-1986.

Taylor said the group will actually be learning less music than most semesters because the requiem will be the exclusive selection. She said some may be reluctant to sing a piece in Latin, but described the language as “consistent and fairly straightforward in terms of pronunciation.”

She said the requiem, which is mostly slow to moderate tempo, will provide an exciting and unique experience for community chorus.

“Performing this work provides the opportunity for a very rewarding musical experience, one that won’t come along very often,” Taylor said.

Stephens said she will seek input from the group in selecting music for the band. She noted that the group is open to all members of the community who would like to play their instrument or use a CSC instrument.

"Anyone who has ever played a band instrument is welcome to participate," said Lauren Stephens, who began directing the group during the fall semester.

Because the groups are considered CSC course offerings, participants must pay a small registration fee. More information may be obtained by contacting Taylor at at utaylor@csc.edu or Stephens at laurenannstephens@gmail.com