InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:43 PM Page 1
inTune UKRAINIAN CHRISTMAS SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
MESSIAH FRIDAY DECEMBER 12
SINGALONG SATURDAY DECEMBER 13
SASKATOONSYMPHONY.ORG
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:43 PM Page 2
NOW AVAILABLE AT
255 2nd Avenue South, (306)933-3336
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 3
Finding Our Prairie Voice The idea behind “Finding Our Prairie Voice” started out as a note on paper and then snowballed into what has become the concept on which we are basing the future of the SSO. It is clear that exploring what it means to be from the prairies resonated with audiences—the results have been spectacular. Subscriptions and donations are up over previous years. This at a time when orchestras all over the globe are questioning whether or not music lovers will still buy subscriptions. This is great news for the prairies! With all the excitement around our breakeven success of last season, it’s a good time to be truly proud of the musicians before you this season. From celebrating worldrenowned performers, to debuting exceptional young talent and growing your orchestra, this is a thrilling year. It is time to be very proud of your orchestra —to be proud of this province’s love of orchestral music. Share your love of these concerts with friends. Share our good news stories. Volunteer. Invest in this incredible artistic endeavour.
But most of all, enjoy the show. We are so proud to bring you these magical moments; the goal is to take your breath away. And if we do, please tell all your friends. It’s time they got a taste for live music too. See you at the symphony, Mark Turner Executive Director
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 4
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 5
Saskatoon Symphony Board and Administration HONOURARY PATRONS Honourable Brad Wall, Premier of Saskatchewan, and Mrs. Tami Wall His Worship, Mayor Donald J. Atchison and Mrs. Mardelle Atchison Dr. Gordon Barnhart, Interim President, Vice-Chancellor, University of Saskatchewan
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sarah Alford Judy Balon Andrew Beaton Rob Dobrohoczki Lynn Ewing Annalisa Govenlock
Shawn Heinz Sharon Hildebrand Nicholas Kokkastamapoulos Shelly Loeffler Neil Reddekopp Bryn Richards
SSO MANAGEMENT AND STAFF Victor Sawa, Music Director
Lillian Jen-Payzant, Orchestra Library
Mark Turner, Executive Director
Electric Umbrella, Marketing marketing@saskatoonsymphony.org
Theresa Torgunrud, Office Manager Sarah Stack, Director of Operations Terry Heckman, Director of Personnel
SASKATOON SYMPHONY CENTRE 408 20th Street West Saskatoon, SK S7M 0X4 Telephone: 306.665.6414 Fax: 306.652.3364 office@saskatoonsymphony.org www.saskatoonsymphony.org Twitter: @SSO_stoon Facebook: Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra
GROUP SALES Telephone: 306.665.6414 office@saskatoonsymphony.org
TCU PLACE BOX OFFICE www.tcutickets.ca Phone: 306.975.7799
Angela Kempf, Director of Development Mike Covey, Director of Sponsorship
CONNECT WITH THE SSO www.facebook.com/SaskatoonSymphony Twitter: @SSOyxe Instagram: SSOyxe
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 6
VIOLIN 1
Orchestra
David Grosse
Michael Swan Concertmaster
Saache Heinrich
Stephen Kreuger
Jeremy Janzen On Leave
Zachary Carter
William Boan Assistant Concertmaster
Heather Wilson
FLUTE Randi Nelson Principal
Mary Lou Day
Miles Buchwaldt
Lillian Jen-Payzant
Stacey Mennie
Joan Savage
CELLO
Marcel van den Hurk
Lahni Russell Principal
Brenda Moats (flute, piccolo)
Supported by Sandra Beardsall, Bill Richards, Esther Cherland, David Jobling
OBOE
John Payzant Bernadette Wilson
Kevin Junk (oboe, english horn)
Carman Rabuka
CLARINET
Christina Bakanec
Margaret Wilson Principal
Simon Fanner Maxim Pletnev
VIOLIN 2 Oxana Ossiptchouk Principal Karen Bindle Rosanne Daku Sophie McBean Arthur Boan
Scott McKnight
Evan Friesen
BASS
VIOLA
Richard Carnegie Principal
James Legge Principal Supported by the Viola Section of the Saskatoon Philharmonic
Supported by Kay and Mark Turner in memory of Wayne Turner David Humphrey
Supported by Lilian and Doug Thorpe
Erin Brophey Principal
Melissa Goodchild
BASSOON Stephanie Unverricht Principal Supported by Mary Marino, in memory of Lucia Marino
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 7
Marie Sellar (bassoon, contrabassoon)
James LeBlanc
PERCUSSION
TROMBONE
HORN
Don Schmidt Principal
Mathieu Pouliot Principal - On Leave
Carol-Marie Cottin Principal Arlene Shiplett Dubrena Bradley Anna Millan
TRUMPET Terry Heckman Principal Daniel Funk Dean McNeill On Leave
Brian Unverricht
Bryan Allen Principal
Dawn McLean Belyk
Supported by the Ewing Family in memory of Earl and Mary Ewing
TUBA
Kevin Grady
Brent Longstaff Principal
HARP
Supported by Electric Umbrella
Cécile Denis Principal
TIMPANI
BASSOON EMERITUS
Darrell Bueckert Principal
Peter Gravlin
Personnel varies by concert. We gratefully acknowledge the support of additional musicians who perform with the orchestra when larger works are presented.
Violin: Evan Barber, Bryn Rees, Kristan Couture, Luke Hnenny – Viola: Emily Woytiuk, Michael Hrycay Flute: Jennifer McAllister – Bassoon: Peter Gravlin – Horn: Roxanne Inch – Trumpet: Frank Harrington Piano/Keyboard: Gillian Lyons – Percussions: Brad Litster
Our Named Principal Chair Program offers a unique opportunity for music lovers and donors to be recognized for their gifts and allows you to foster deeper and personally meaningful connections with the orchestra. A Named Principal Chair presents the opportunity for an individual, group, company, or foundation to name, honour, or remember someone special by attaching their name to one of the key positions in the orchestra. Being recognized as a donor to the SSO through the Named Principal Chair Program is about more than a financial commitment to your orchestra. This program will provide you with an important link to our musicians and artistic team. To name your chair, please contact Angela Kempf at 306.665.6414 or email development@saskatoonsymphony.org,
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 8
SaskatchewDQ·s destination for high quality piano sales & service for over 34 years
* BEST Quality * BEST Prices * BEST Service * Lessons Available
GRAND AND UPRIGHT PIANOS BY @amaha :LPSLY 2UHIL Yamaha Disklavier, AvantGrand , Clavinova, and Keyboards
1011 Broadway Avenue Saskatoon SK S7N 1C1 306.665.0213
www.yamahapianocentre.ca
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 9
Hallelujah! – A Sing A-Long Messiah As a kid I hated Handel’s Messiah. It was too hard to sit through. And every time it felt like it was over, it wasn’t. So skip past the part where I became a professional musician and jump to having to teach music history – I still hated Messiah, but now I had to teach it to students and inspire them to love it. I went to the concert each year so that my students would see me there soaking it all in for the glory of the music. But I still hated it. Then, two years ago, I attended a performance of Messiah given by Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra…and there was something there. At the time I was working with a young tenor who was learning the Messiah arias for the first time. I listened to every recording I could get my hands on and researched and studied scores and editions. What I found was magical. Handel wrote Messiah in 24 days – not a staggering pace for a man who could whip off an opera in two weeks, but still an impressive feat. He mixes and matches styles here; he is at his most detailed and perfected while exploring the sounds of the human voice and heart. Take for example his use of the modest beat three – the words that are of the utmost importance to Handel always fall on the third beat of the bar. This might sound unimportant, but from an early age in music we are taught that music in common time is to be expressed as “strong-weak-medium-weak.” Here now we have a master expressing to us that the important word, the word in a phrase that makes all other words have value is placed on the medium beat.
Or better still is his ability to paint colours with words. Listen to the tenor sing “Comfort Ye” with the peaceful hue Handel gives him. Listen to the soprano’s voice literally “Rejoice!” Hear the alto’s voice burn like a refining fire. And experience the grounded centering of “Peace on Earth.” It is no mistake that Handel wanted his audience to explore these with him. I personally want to invite you to come to Messiah this year – come to the Friday night and experience the power of the exceptional story-telling, or come on the Saturday afternoon and explore the score with us. It doesn’t matter if you can sing, or if you feel like you don’t know the music – just be part of it. Sit inside a living breathing performance and experience what it must have been like to hear this music for the first time. Go to it with new ears. Feel the kinetic energy of everyone working together to make beautiful music – it’s glorious! Mark Turner
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 10
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 11
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 12
Experience the exquisite, XVII century, handcrafftted Amati instruments in a spectacular setting.
November 15, 2014, Knox United Church at 2 PM and 7:30 PM
January 10, 2015, Knox United Church at 2 PM and 7:30 PM
HAY YDN - String Quartet in C major, Op. 76, No. 3 MENDELSSOHN - String Quartet in E flat major SME TANA - String Quartet in E minor
HA AYDN - String g Quartet in C major, Op 20, No. 2 MOZART - Strin ng Quartet in B flat, K.458 DEBUSSY - String Quartet in G minor, Op. 10
amatiquartet.usask.ca
<#> inTune
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 13
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 14
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 15
Funders and Corporate Sponsors 2014-2015 Season FUNDING AGENCIES
FOUNDATIONS
SERIES SPONSORS
PRESENTING SPONSORS
CORPORATE SPONSORS
MEDIA SPONSORS
EXPRESS SASKATOON
.com
f
m a g a z i n e
FreshWest Media Ltd.
BOOK & MUSIC SALE Mount Royal Drugs Humboldt Shoppers Drug Mart
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 16
The best in live roots music Thursdays @ 8:00 - Fridays @ 9:00PM
The best in live jazz music Saturdays @ :00PM PIANO FRIDAYS 4:30 to 7:30 - No Cover Free admission to Saturday Bassment shows with your SSO ticket stub for that night. www.thebassment.ca 202 Fourth Avenue North
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 17
View from a Prairie Sky – JOHN ESTACIO, COMPOSER The first time ever I experienced the glorious spectacle of the Aurora Borealis was a few short years ago when I arrived in Edmonton. Up until that moment I had to settle for textbook explanations and a geography teacher’s descriptions. I had no idea what I was seeing when I first noticed the majestic curtains of swirling green light in the sky one crisp October evening until a friend confirmed that it was indeed the Northern Lights. I was completely captivated and awestruck by the magical sight of dancing light; how could I not be inspired to compose a piece of music?! Having recently completed two serious compositions, it was the right time to revisit a style for unabashed lyrical melodies and joyous bright orchestral colours that Borealis would require. Borealis is meant to be awe-invoking and attempts to capture the ethereal atmosphere of the lights of the northern skies; wide streams of bending, curving light that
abruptly disappear and reappear. The ephemeral nature of these celestial happenings is represented by the sudden colourful outbursts followed by movements of near silence. The movement begins with the strings playing a major chord and then gradually glissing (bending the pitch) until they all arrive at a different chord; for me, this musical gesture captures the essence of bending curtains of light and serves as a recurring motive throughout this movement. A solo flute introduces fragments of a melody; this melody is not heard in its entirety until later in the piece when it is performed by a solo bassoon and then an English horn. The strings perform the melody and the composition swells to its climax featuring the brass and the sound splashes provided by the percussion. The movement concludes with a unique auditory effect in the percussion section that again attempts to convey the enchanting and magical quality of the borealis. Hear John Estacio’s Borealis performed by the SSO on January 24.
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 18
PotashCorp is proud to feed the future of the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra and the performing arts in our community. PotashCorp.com
@PotashCorpSask
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 19
thinkfast www.fastprint.ca @YXEFastPrint Limited Par tnership
2938 Millar Avenue
306.244.3988
facebook.com/YXEFastprint
Complimentary lunch Complimentary dinner
Choice – it’s what living at a Revera retirement community is all about. That’s why, Revera – The Franklin would like to invite you and a guest for your choice of a complimentary lunch or dinner and tour. Learn more about the downtown Saskatoon retirement options available and speak with residents about what it’s like to live at The Franklin. See why they tell us they “should have done this years ago.”
The Franklin 220 24th St E Saskatoon
306-664-6366 reveraliving.com
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 20
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 21
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 22
A UKRAINIAN CHRISTMAS – SSO, LASTIWKA, PAVLYCHENKO, SPIVOHRAI Festive Christmas
Leroy Anderson
Бог Предвічний - God Eternal Lastiwka Ukrainian Orthodox Choir
Traditional Arr. Peter Wiebe
This carol, which celebrates the birth of Christ, is the iconic carol of the season for all Ukrainians. God Eternal is born! He came from Heaven to redeem and comfort all mankind, and we sing Glory to God!
Привітальний - Welcome Suite - Baba’s Trunk Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble and Lastiwka Choir Larry Klopoushak, conductor Serhij Koroliuk, choreography Sonia Kodak, narrator
Serhij Kushniruk
As proud Canadians, we still remember our Ukrainian roots and heritage. “Baba’s Trunk” welcomes you, bringing to the stage our proud heritage through song, dance, colourful costumes and symbols. From the Carpathian Mountains to the Steppes, one can see the vast diversity and beauty that is Ukraine. We dedicate this piece to the Ukrainian pioneers who settled in Saskatchewan and in Canada, the pioneers who built our new home and our country. The composition is based on the popular Western Canadian dance tune, “The Heel Toe Polka,” widely known in Western Ukraine as “The Canadian Polka.”
Нова Рада Стала - A Great Joy Lastiwka Ukrainian Orthodox Choir
Traditional Arr. Ukrainian Nativity Theatre
Shepherds and kings bowed before Him as a great joy settled on the earth with the news of the virgin birth of the Christ child in a lowly manger.
Бог Народився - God is Born Lastiwka Ukrainian Orthodox Choir Roxanna Smycniuk and George Hupka, soloists
Traditional Arr. A. Hnatyshyn
God is born, Jesus is His name and Mary is His mother. The angels rejoiced, the shepherds danced and played. At last, He is here!
Що то за Придиво? - What is this Wonder? Lastiwka Ukrainian Orthodox Choir Patrusia Rudy, solo
Traditional Arr. Willi Zwozdesky
Joyous tidings to the world! The Virgin Mary has brought forth a son named Jesus, for whom she sings a tender lullaby. Joseph and Mary wrap Him in swaddling clothes and Mother Mary holds Him close to her heart.
Спи Ісусе, Спи - Sleep Jesus, Sleep Spivohrai Children’s Choir Patrusia Rudy, solo
Traditional Arr. Claude Lapalme
Mother Mary rocks her baby to sleep with a gentle lullaby.
Гуляночка - A Merry Dance Lastiwka Ukrainian Orthodox Choir Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble Nadia Kodak, solo Serhij Koroliuk, choreography
Traditional Arr. Serhij Kushniruk
A young lady from the Volyn region dances as she extols the virtues of a fine husband. She is looking for a tall, dark, handsome kozak who doesn’t drink or smoke, one who dotes on her completely.
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 23
Interval – 20 mins Excerpts from The Nutcracker Suite Overture Miniature Marche Chinese Dance Danse des mirlitons Danse russe
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Two New Year’s Carols Старий Рік Минає - The Old Year Passes
Traditional Arr. O. Stadnyk
We bid the old year farewell, and look forward to the new year with its promise of improved good fortune. As you listen to our good wishes, ladies and gentlemen, prepare the food and drink, and for these gifts, we wish you a good new year.
Рай Розвився - Heaven Is Revealed Wandering carolers invite the host to fill the table with good food and drink, to celebrate heaven being revealed with the birth of Christ
Lastiwka Ukrainian Orthodox Choir and Orchestra Носталґія - Nostalghia Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble Serhij Koroliuk, choreography
Arr. Serhij Kushniruk
In everyone’s heart there is a “special place” to where our thoughts and yearnings navigate. This place is extraordinary because of its beauty, serenity, atmosphere and rhythms. Perhaps it is our “soul” speaking—this place we call Nostalghia…
Маланка - Medley of New Year’s Carols Traditional, arr. Willi Zwozdesky Lastiwka Ukrainian Orthodox Choir Щедрий вечір, добрий вечір – A Bountiful Evening, A Good Evening Marko Baran and Gavril Tarasoff, solos A New Year’s Eve song of greeting and goodwill to the master of the house. We find him seated at the head of the table.
У пана, пана заслана скам’я – At the Lord Master’s, the board is laden Gavril Tarasoff, solo A salute to the master of the house, whose table is laden with fine wines. The young, green wine is for the Lord Master, red wine for the Mistress and sweet mead for their children. The refrain proclaims that heaven has unfolded in this very house.
А в ґаздиньки, красненько в неї – Ah, but it is beautiful at the Mistress’ house Ethan Fedorchuk and Jordan Welbourne, solos The lady of the house guards her husband’s sleep. As she moves about her beautiful chambers, she admonishes her fine silver keys to jingle softly, for her husband is very tired and is still asleep. He has just returned home with a gift of coral beads, which she will wear to church.
Коза – The Goat A dramatic game in which a frolicking goat is shot dead but is miraculously brought back to life. Ukrainian folk wisdom suggests that “grain grows wherever the goat goes!”
І всяка пашниця – And all manner of grain Festive New Year medley with wishes of prosperity for the coming year.
Щедрик - Carol of the Bells Spivohrai Children’s Choir
Traditional Arr. Serhij Kushniruk
Perhaps the most well-known carol of the Ukrainian repertoire, this New Year’s carol is a rhythmic, bell-like imitation of a “lastiwka” (a swallow) as the harbinger of spring, expressing wishes of prosperity for the coming year.
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 24
Возвеселімся! - Rejoice! A Christmas Suite Lastiwka Ukrainian Orthodox Choir Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble Spivohrai Children’s Choir Serhij Koroliuk, choreography Yulia Stetsko and Ethan Fedorchuk, recitations Ой чи є, чи нема – Are you home, dear host?
Arr. Serhij Kushniruk
New Year’s carolers greet their hosts on a “magical” New Year’s Eve, wishing them a bountiful and prosperous new year.
Ой в Єрусалимі – In Jerusalem, morning bells are ringing! In Jerusalem, the bells peal to announce the birth of Jesus.
Щедрик – A New Year’s Carol Carolers expect to be given tasty treats in return for their good wishes for health and happiness in the new year.
Lastiwka Ukrainian Orthodox Choir and Orchestra - Larry Klopoushak, artistic director
Lastiwka Ukrainian Orthodox Choir and Orchestra of Saskatoon has amazed audiences with its unique versatility and energetic performances of Ukrainian folk songs and spiritually-moving sacred and liturgical music. The choir performs a large repertoire of Ukrainian folk and sacred songs sung a cappella or accompanied by an orchestra of traditional folk instruments. Established in 1983 under the artistic direction of founding conductor Larry Klopoushak, Lastiwka has performed extensively in Saskatchewan and throughout Western Canada. Lastiwka was invited to perform at Expo ’86 in Vancouver, both at the Saskatchewan Pavilion and the Xerox International Stage. The choir frequently performs at Saskatoon’s Vesna Festival, Folkfest and Ukraine Day in the Park, and has performed several times at the Pysanka Festival in Vegreville and at Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival in Dauphin. In 2003, Lastiwka, together with the Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble, performed six major concerts in the cities of Western Ukraine, moving the audiences to tears and cheers, and spontaneous standing ovations. In 2008, Lastiwka celebrated its 25th anniversary with a gala banquet and concert that featured two commissioned works by the award-winning Canadian composer Oleksa Lozowchuk. Lastiwka returned to Ukraine in 2013 for its 30th anniversary tour along with Pavlychenko, visiting five major cities and participating in workshops with three of Ukraine’s finest
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 25
ensembles. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lastiwka is noted for singing the bilyi spiv (white singing) folk style, endemic to choirs from Ukraine itself. This style is noted for the very broad and energetic tone of the singing. As well, the choir members show remarkable enthusiasm on stage, enhancing the melodies with their exuberant expressions.â&#x20AC;? (The Ukrainian News) Lastiwka has released four recordings entitled Lastiwka (1987), Songs for the Christmas Season (1993), Across the Steppes (2002) and their newest album titled Love and Sorrow (2012). Musical director, Larry Klopoushak, received his Bachelor of Music in vocal performance from the University of Saskatchewan. He has performed as a soloist with the Saskatoon and Regina Symphonies, Saskatoon Opera Association, Saskatoon Summer Players and Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan. He has sung under master Canadian choral directors Dr. Elmer Eisler, James Fankhauser, Wayne Riddel, John Washburn, and under world renowned choral conductors John Aldis from London, England and Maestro Anatolij Avdievsky of the Veryovka Choir and Dance Ensemble from Kyiv, Ukraine.
Linda Balon-Smith Marko Baran Nissa Baran Tanya Baran Olesia Dashynych Marissa Evans Ethan Fedorchuk Cheryl Fedusiak Alanna Hawrysh Marnie Howlett George Hupka Neil Jones Taras Kachkowski Irene Kindrachuk
Ivanna Kindrachuk Zenovie Kindrachuk Alicia Klopoushak Larry Klopoushak Marina Kodak Nadia Kodak Sonia Kodak Stepan Kodak Mariia Kostetska Nancy Litwin Joanne Makowsky Connor Moen Mike Morien Patrusia Rudy
Robert Rudy Christina Rybalka Ron Skwarchuk Audrey Smycniuk Roxanna Smycniuk Holly Stasiuk Tatiana Storoschuk Gavril Tarasoff Corinne Wachniak Nicholas Wachniak Jordan Welbourne Aubree Worobetz
Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble - Serhij Koroliuk, artistic director
The Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble is a dynamic Ukrainian dance company based in Saskatoon. This exciting troupe of young, dedicated dancers who can stimulate nostalgia, create a comedic scene, dazzle you with intricate high velocity footwork, amaze you with their lyrical quality; and most of all, give your hands and feet a tremendous workout!
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 26
Here is a troupe that has performed from the Pacific to Atlantic coasts, in the U.S.A., Brazil, Ukraine, and extensively throughout Saskatchewan. They have also worked on several joint projects with Lastiwka Ukrainian Orthodox Choir and Orchestra, Spivohrai Ukrainian Choir, and a diverse group of other artists from around the world. The Pavlychenko Folklorique Ensemble is a favourite at conventions, national and international. Established in 1967 by the late Miss Lusia Pavlychenko, and under the artistic direction of Serhij Koroliuk, the ensemble has its own unique style and presence that continues to bring an exciting new edge to the genre. PFE, as the group is affectionately known, has an expansive and entertaining repertoire with choreography from many different regions and time periods. The cast is a young energetic and spirited group of performers who strive to develop their performance skills and to embrace the Ukrainian culture and heritage.
y
-
Shaunda Arsenie Evan Billay Laura Billay Maria Boyko Adam Breckner Paul Breckner Mitch Bristow Tawni Cherepuschak Carma Douglas Kelsee Douglas Brenna Gallagher Megan Gallagher
Ashlyn Hartshorn Alanna Hawrysh Marnie Howlett Natalya Jaddock Kaitlin Kliewer Marina Kodak Nadia Kodak Julian Makowsky Tatiana Makowsky Crystal Mallough Nicole Matsalla Bethany McQuaid
Brendan Nykoluk Mike Pidperyhora Katherine Prytula Gabrielle Sawitsky Michael Senger Tatiana Storoschuk Courtney Tkachuk Rebecca Vereschagin Aubree Worobetz Megan Worobetz Michelle Zabiaka
Spivohrai Ukrainian Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choir - Andreya Karnaukh, artistic director
i-
Spivohrai Ukrainian Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choir, founded by Andreya Karnaukh in 2010, provides boys and girls, ages six to 15, with an opportunity to maintain, develop and share their Ukrainian cultural identity through the medium of song. Its mission is to promote modern Ukrainian choral music, to develop harmonic and individual singing styles and to share this element of Ukrainian culture with the broader community.
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 27
Spivohrai is a unique, artistic ensemble, with an original sound. Its music blends elements of Ukrainian folk music, combining them with contemporary arrangements into a new style of song. Conductor Andreya Karnauch provides strong, knowledgeable and professional leadership, constantly working to improve skills and expand the choir’s repertoire. The choir’s performances are filled with a high level of energy and enthusiasm. The name Spivohrai is a melodious blend of two Ukrainian words meaning “to sing” and “to play.” Spivohrai performs regularly at community functions and cultural events throughout the year. Performances have included: Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival in Dauphin, Manitoba; Pysanka Festival in Vegreville, Alberta; the Annual Shevchenko Foundation, Saskatoon Chapter Concert; Vesna Festival; Ukrainian Day in the Park; Folkfest; and Shevchenko Day. The group has also performed at local museums and churches, their repertoire including traditional caroling and the traditional Vertep (Nativity Play). Spivohrai successfully released its first CD, First Steps - Перші Кроки” in 2012, and a second CD The Music Resounds in 2014. In 2015, Spivohrai Choir will present a new Christmas CD, Christmas Angels. Angelina Artiukh Viktoriya Cheremshynska Yuliya Druzhynina Vitalii Dzhura Yaroslav Garmasar Taras Garmasar Danylo Karnaukh
Denys Karnaukh Alina Kovalchuk Solomiya Krushelnytska Mariya Matyushenko Vladyslav Myrutenko Oleksandr Pavlovskyi Olena Pavlovska
Anatoliy Prystupa Anastasiya Shmatova Yulia Stetsko Stella Vasyleha Arina Zavodnova
Ukrainian Christmas Traditions Our pioneers that came from Ukraine brought many traditions of celebration with them, and none are more colourful and filled with symbolism than those of the Christmas season. The season begins with St. Nicholas’ Day, celebrated on December 19 by the Julian calendar. On this holiday, young children receive gifts from St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children. The advent season concludes with a special Christmas Eve meal, Sviata Vecheria (the Holy Supper), on January 6. This Lenten meal of twelve meatless dishes, commemorating Christ’s twelve apostles, begins with the sighting of the first star (the Star of Bethlehem). The evening continues with caroling, until the Christmas Midnight Liturgy to celebrate Christ’s birth. While many of the Ukrainian Christmas Eve customs are of a solemn nature, the custom of caroling is joyful and merry. Ukrainian Christmas carols have their origins in antiquity, as do many other traditions practiced at Christmas time. There are two main groups of Christmas songs - koliadky (Christmas carols), sung on Christmas Eve through to Malanka (New Year’s Eve) on January 13, and shchedrivky (New Year’s carols), sung from New Year’s until the Feast of the Jordan (Epiphany) on January 19. Caroling from home to home is not a simple singing of Christmas songs; it is more of a folk opera. The carolers first ask for permission to sing. If the answer is yes, they enter the house and sing carols for each member of the family, even for the smallest child. They are rewarded with something to eat and drink. At New Year’s, carolers present a short humorous skit involving a goat. The custom of the goat accompanying the carolers has its origin in ancient times. The skit, showing the goat dying and being brought back to life, symbolizes the death of winter and the birth of spring. Caroling always ends with short poems, appropriately selected for each home, wishing good health, prosperity and God’s blessings on all in the home.
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 28
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 29
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 30
MESSIAH Friday, December 12, 2014 Part I 1. Sinfonia 2. Comfort ye my people (tenor) 3. Evâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ry valley shall be exalted (tenor) 4. And the glory of the Lord (chorus) 5. Thus saith the Lord of hosts (bass) 6. But who may abide the day of His coming (alto) 7. And he shall purify the sons of Levi (chorus) 8. Behold, a virgin shall conceive (alto) 9. O thou that tellest good tidings to Zion (alto and chorus) 10. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth (bass) 11. The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light (bass) 12. For unto us a child is born (chorus) 13. Pifa 14a. There were shepherds abiding in the fields (soprano) 14b. And lo, the angel of the Lord (soprano) 15. And the angel said unto them (soprano) 16. And suddenly there was with the angel (soprano) 17. Glory to God in the highest (chorus) 18. Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion (soprano) 19. Then shall the eyes of the blind be opened (soprano) 20. He shall feed his flock like a shepherd (alto and soprano) 21. His yoke is easy (chorus) Intermission Part II 22. Behold the Lamb of God (chorus) 23. He was despised and rejected of men (alto) 24. Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows (chorus) 25. And with his stripes we are healed (chorus) 26. All we like sheep have gone astray (chorus) 27. All they that see him laugh him to scorn (tenor) 28. He trusted in God that he would deliver him (chorus) 29. Thy rebuke hath broken his heart (tenor ) 30. Behold and see if there be any sorrow (tenor ) 31. He was cut off (tenor) 32. But thou didst not leave his soul in hell (tenor) 33. Lift up your heads, O ye gates (chorus) 34. Unto which of the angels (tenor) 35. Let all the angels of God worship Him (chorus) 40. Why do the nations so furiously rage together (bass) 41. Let us break their bonds asunder (chorus) 42. He that dwelleth in heaven (tenor) 43. Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron (tenor) 44. Hallelujah (chorus)
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 31
Part III 45. I know that my Redeemer liveth (soprano) 46. Since by man came death (chorus) 47. Behold, I tell you a mystery (bass) 48. The trumpet shall sound (bass) 53. Worthy is the Lamb (chorus) Amen (chorus) SING-ALONG MESSIAH Saturday, December 13, 2014 Sinfonia Tenor Recitative: Comfort ye my people Tenor Air: Evâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ry valley shall be exalted Chorus: And the glory of the Lord Alto Recitative: Behold, a virgin shall conceive Alto Air and Chorus: O thou that tellest good tidings to Zion Bass Recitative: For, behold, darkness shall cover the earth Bass Air: The people that walked in darkness Chorus: For unto us a child is born Pifa Soprano Recitative: There were shepherds abiding in the field Soprano Recitative: And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them Soprano Recitative: And the angel said unto them Soprano Recitative: And suddenly there was with the angel Chorus: Glory to God Soprano Air: Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion Alto Recitative: Then shall the eyes of the blind Alto and Soprano Duet: He shall feed his flock/Come unto him Chorus: His yoke is easy
1 4 6 11 41 41 50 51 55 65 66 67 68 73 79 81 86
INTERMISSION Chorus: Behold the Lamb of God Alto Air: He was despised Chorus: Surely he hath borne our griefs Chorus: And with his stripes we are healed Chorus: All we like sheep have gone astray Tenor Recitative: All they that see him laugh him to scorn Chorus: He trusted in God Bass Air: Why do the nations so furiously rage together? Chorus: Let us break their bonds asunder Tenor Recitative: He that dwelleth in heaven Tenor Air: Thou shalt break them Chorus: Hallelujah Soprano Air: I know that my redeemer liveth Chorus: Since by man came death Bass Recitative: Behold, I tell you a mystery Bass Air: The trumpet shall sound Chorus: Worthy is the Lamb that was slain/Amen
91 94 98 102 106 114 115 155 161 167 167 171 181 186 189 189 217
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 32
Duff Warkentin guest conductor Culture builds community! A strong believer in this truism, Duff Warkentin has had a significant and varied career as a choral singer, conductor, clinician, and adjudicator. His first intensive experience as a choral singer came when he was a student at Rosthern Junior College. Here he also had the opportunity to conduct the choir in the absence of their regular conductor. His post-secondary studies include degrees from Canadian Mennonite Bible College in Winnipeg, University of Waterloo and the University of Regina. He has served as Music Director at Rosthern Junior College, taught and conducted choirs for several years at the University of Saskatchewan, served as Choral Artist in Residence in the Battlefords and Rosthern, was the conductor of the Saskatoon Chamber Singers, conducted a number of church choirs and is the founding conductor of the Station Singers of Rosthern. He is grateful for the opportunity to conduct Handel’s magnificent oratorio.
Chelsea Mahan soprano Canadian-American soprano Chelsea Mahan is one to watch for in the independent music scene with her performance versatility in unconventional spaces. These intimate performances include the roles of Monica in The Medium and Laurette in Bizet’s comedy Le Docteur Miracle with Stu and Jess Productions in Montreal. Having recently completed her Masters of Music at McGill University studying with renowned Canadian soprano Joanne Kolomyjec, Ms. Mahan is currently balancing engagements in and around Montreal and her home province of Saskatchewan. As a prize-winning competitor, her achievements include first prize in the 65th Young Artist Series Western Concert tour in conjunction with the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers’ Association. Through the CFMTA, Ms. Mahan collaborated with pianist Kathleen Lohrenz Gable, in recital, to tour the cities of Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Ms. Mahan also won first prize in the prestigious Gordon Wallis Opera Competition (2012), which included professional engagements with both the Saskatoon and Regina Symphony Orchestras. On the operatic stage, Ms. Mahan has traveled throughout Canada performing various roles such as Ida (Die Fledermaus) and Soeur Constance (Dialogues des Carmelites) with Opera NUOVA, and Helena in Halifax Summer Opera Workshop’s production of Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. In Montreal, she was seen as Casilda in Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Gondoliers with the McGill Savoy Society and Erste Dame (Die Zauberflöte) with Opera McGill. Comfortable on stage, as well as in a studio setting, Ms. Mahan has just finished recording excerpts from Lucia di Lammermoore for an upcoming Canadian short film by David Uloth. Singing the soprano soloist of Messiah with the Saskatoon and Regina Symphony Orchestras and covering it for the McGill Chamber Orchestra marked Ms. Mahan’s professional debut in 2013. She is beyond excited to return to her hometown of Saskatoon this December for another Messiah with the SSO. Most recently she was seen as Tytania in Opera McGill’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and in 2015 she will take the stage as Diane in Charpentier’s Actéon with the Compagnie Baroque Mont-Royal. Ms. Mahan has just been appointed a Laureate of Jeunes Ambassadeurs Lyriques (2014) and over the next year will be traveling to Europe for various competitions with their generous support.
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 33
Lisa Hornung mezzo-soprano Honoured as one of the University of Saskatchewan’s Arts and Science Alumni of Influence, Saskatchewan born mezzo-soprano, Lisa Hornung has been acclaimed for performances in repertoire ranging from Baroque to contemporary composers. Her voice has been called “rich and powerful” and her stage presence has “inspired audiences and musicians alike “ Most often heard in Handel’s Messiah, Ms. Hornung’s orchestral performances also include Beethoven’s Mass in C Major, Mozart’s Requiem, Coronation Mass and Vesperae solennes de Confessore, Pergolesi’s Stabat Mater, the Durufle Requiem, Ruth Watson-Henderson’s From Darkness to Light, Verdi’s Requiem, Bach’s Magnificat and Christmas Oratorio, Vivaldi’s Gloria, Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 and Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen, Mendelssohn’s Elijah, Vaughn William’s Magnificat, The May Queen by Bennett and the Alto Rhapsody by Brahms. In addition to her oratorio and orchestral work Ms. Hornung enjoys an active recital career with recent performances including works by Brahms, Schumann, Marx, Debussy and Handel as well as Christmas, spiritual and folk repertoire. She has toured the United States and Europe as a soloist and ensemble member with the American Spiritual Ensemble, a group of professional singers dedicated to the preservation and performance of Negro spirituals. Very excited about the talents of composer Paul Suchan, Lisa was delighted to record his full nuptial mass entitled May and to have premiered the role of May Bartram in his opera The Beast in the Jungle. After completing a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance at the University of Saskatchewan under the tutelage of Professor Dorothy Howard, Ms. Hornung went on to further her studies at the Institute of Vocal Arts in Chiari, Italy. This was followed by an intensive study time at the University of Illinois with Richard Best. More recently she completed a year of study with the support of the Saskatchewan Arts Board, enabling her to spend time travelling to work with Mr. Nico Castel, Dr. Everett McCorvey, Dr. Cliff Jackson, Dr. Bill Cooper, Professor Micheal McMahon, Professor Tedrin Lindsey and Mr. Richard Best. In accordance with her belief that every child deserves the opportunity to sing, Lisa runs a nonaudition community youth choir and often collaborates with elementary and high school musical endeavours. She also enjoys lending a hand when the local drama club, Battlefords Community Players, is in need of musical direction. Ms. Hornung has gained a deeper appreciation and love of choral arts through her continued work as vocal coach for the Cantilon and Belle Canto choral programs, directed by Heather Johnson. Well known as a teacher, adjudicator, clinician and choral coach, Lisa lives in North Battleford, Saskatchewan with her husband John and their twins, James and Larissa.
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 34
Spencer McKnight tenor Spencer McKnight was born and raised in LeRoy, Saskatchewan. He started singing in school at age 17. In the summer of 2009 he began serious vocal studies with mezzo soprano Lisa Hornung. He’s noted for his brassy tenor voice and praised for his artistry. In 2013 Spencer received first place in Saskatoon’s Kinsmen Competition and won top vocal awards at the Saskatchewan Provincial Finals. That summer he represented Saskatchewan at the National Music Festival finals where he won the Jan Simmons Award for Art Song for a performance of a song cycle by the Catalan composer Frederic Mompou. Spencer has performed as a soloist extensively across Saskatchewan in the last two seasons, as well as performances in Ontario including the National Arts Centre and a recent award win at the National Association of Teachers of Singing competition. In the last two years Spencer has been privileged to work with Tracy Dahl, Judith Forst, Mary Lou Fallis, Laurence Ewashko, Robert MacLaren, Laura Loewen, Elizabeth MacDonald, Bonnie Cutsforth-Huber, Elizabeth Turnbull, and Monica Whitcher. Spencer is now currently studying with Mark Daboll in voice studies at the University of Toronto.
Matthew Pauls baritone Baritone Matthew Pauls, praised for his poise and magnificent singing (Opera Canada), is in his fourth year of a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Vocal Performance at the University of Western Ontario. He made his operatic debut with Saskatoon Opera as Marullo in Verdi’s Rigoletto. Other stage credits include Figaro in Le Nozze di Figaro, the Speaker and 2nd Armoured Man in Die Zauberflöte, Dr. Falke in Die Fledermaus, Don Inigo Gomez in L’Heure Espagnole, the Mysterious Man in Sondheim’s Into the Woods, Frank Maurant in Street Scene, and Masetto in Don Giovanni, which he performed with UWOpera and La Musica Lirica in Italy. On the concert stage, Matthew has performed numerous works such as Mendelssohn’s Elijah, Handel’s Alexander’s Feast and Messiah, Haydn’s Creation, Mozart’s Requiem and Vesperae solennes de confessore, Fauré’s Requiem, Grieg’s Four Psalms, J.S. Bach’s cantata Gottes Zeit is die allerbeste Zeit (BWV 106), and Vaughan Williams’ Dona Nobis Pacem and Five Mystical Songs. Matthew has been delighted to perform with ensembles such as the Orquesta Sinfónica Nacional del Paraguay, Windsor Symphony, Canadian Chamber Choir, Pro Coro Canada, Winnipeg Singers, Guelph Chamber Choir, Windsor Classic Chorale, and the Windsor Symphony Chorus. In addition to performing, Matthew also maintains a small voice studio in London, Ontario.
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 35
Upcoming Events
January 18 QUINTET (PLAYERS CHOICE SERIES) Sunday, January 18, 2015, Delta Bessborough, 2:30 pm
24 NORTHERN LIGHTS (MASTER SERIES) Saturday, January 24, 2015, TCU Place, Sid Buckwold Theatre, 7:30 pm
28 TIME FOR TODDLERS Wednesday, January 28, 2015, SSO Rehearsal Hall, 408 20th St W, 9:30 am
February 7 SAFETY LAST (SILENCE IS GOLDEN SILENT MOVIE) Saturday February 7, 2015, Roxy Theatre, 320 20th Street West, 1:00 pm Saturday February 7, 2015, Roxy Theatre, 320 20th Street West, 7:30 pm
21 THE MUSIC OF SIMON AND GARFUNKLE (CONEXUS POPS SERIES) Saturday February 21, 2015, TCU Place, Sid Buckwold Theatre, 7:30 pm
28 ESPANA (MASTERS SERIES) Saturday February 28, 2015, TCU Place, Sid Buckwold Theatre, 7:30 pm
www.saskatoonsymphony.org
InTune_XMAS.qxp_InTune 2014-12-03 3:44 PM Page 36
PROUDLY SUPPORTING OUR SASKATOON SYMPHONY
We are proud to deliver the content you trust in print; online on your desktop, tablet and smartphone; and through social channels as part of your day. The StarPhoenix has continued to evolve as part of this community for more than 110 years and we are proud to support the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra.
thestarphoenix.com
Home of Saskatchewan’s Top 100 Companies Listing®
Proud to support the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra
S U N R I S E P U B L I S H I N G S A S K AT O O N , S K P H O N E : 3 0 6 - 2 4 4 - 5 6 6 8 FA X : 3 0 6 - 2 4 4 - 5 6 7 9 T O L L - F R E E : 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 4 7 - 5 7 4 3