Chronos vocal ensemble is a well-known choral group in Edmonton. They are preparing for the launch of their twelfth season. Jordan Van Biertthe artistic director of the Chronos Vocal Ensemble, discussed the choir’s approach to performing a mix of contemporary and classical pieces. The season will include three concerts — streak of light, awakening, And human heart.

The first concert of the season, streak of light, took place on November 10 and featured pieces by Canadian composers. These included “I’m not yours” by Gerda Blok-Wilson and “The Poplar and the Moon” by Jeff Enns. The choir is dedicated to presenting new choral compositions alongside classical works, Van Biert explained.

“(The) chance to perform brand new choral music, with the composer live, is always exciting,” Van Biert said.

The new season is about “the past, present, future and (and) our perception of time”

Van Biert explained that the theme of this season is “the past, the present, the future (and) our perception of time.” He also noted that the streak of light The concert “incorporates this element of the past and specifically of memory, and memories of love and loved ones.”

The second concert of the season, awakeningtakes place on January 19 and talks about the “future” aspect of the season.

“In January, we dust things off and make our New Year’s resolutions. Or we put aside habits that we want to change. It’s part of our mentality. This concert is therefore dedicated to the idea of ​​looking forward and to a spirit of hope for the future.

Chronos Vocal Ensemble invites singers from all backgrounds to participate

Van Biert emphasized the nature of the choir as a “volunteer ensemble.” Members range from private music teachers to “people who make church music.”

“(There are) a lot of people who gained an appreciation for the high level of choral performance growing up,” Van Biert explained.

Additionally, in the choir are alumni of the University of Alberta from Concert choirTHE Madrigal singersand the music department. Van Biert is himself an alumnus of the University of Alberta. He earned a Master of Music degree in choral conducting in 2007. He explained that a number of former Madrigal singers helped form the group in 2013.

Overall, Van Biert emphasized that the choir is “universal” and not only aimed at choral singing enthusiasts.

“There need not be a significant barrier to initiation for people to enjoy the instantaneous experience of this beauty of unaccompanied voices. If it’s done well, I think it gets to you.