Michigan State University College of Music presents the final concert of the academic year – the massive Carmina Burana cantata by Carl Orff. The Wind Symphony will take the stage with Choral Union, University Chorale and State Singers on Saturday, April 29 at 8 p.m. in Wharton Center’s Cobb Great Hall.

Written by three German medieval poets, Carmina Burana is a collection of 228 secular poems discovered in 1803 in a Bavarian monastery. Orff used 24 of the poems to compose this stunning cantata, which was premiered in 1937. Originally written for orchestra and choir, it is considered one of the most popular pieces of music ever composed. Included in the composition is the famous ‘O Fortuna’ used in many commercials and movies. The work, which has been transcribed for wind ensemble, is divided into three parts: Spring, In the Tavern and In the Court of Love. Each one features a colorful collection of songs, written mostly in Latin, but also medieval German and French.

“The academic year will close in grand style with this masterwork,” says Kevin Sedatole, director of bands and conductor of the Wind Symphony. “The Wind Symphony is excited to join all of the choral forces to bring this piece to the MSU community. The work is a kaleidoscopic journey through the fortunes and misfortunes of life. This concert will be a great experience for everyone involved!”

Featured soloists include soprano Catherine Goode, master’s student; tenor Isaac Frishman, doctoral student; and baritone Brian Major, doctoral student.

“Without a doubt, this is the most popular choral-orchestral work for choirs,” says David Rayl, director of choral programs. People love singing it. It’s the 20^th-century piece most often requested by the singers in Choral Union. This collaboration with the Wind Symphony has been a wonderful opportunity for our singers to work with Maestro Sedatole and the fantastic players of the Wind Symphony.”

A contemporary piece by Michael Torke, Bright Blue Music (new edition), opens the concert, and is conducted by DMA wind conducting student Daniel Kirk.

This concert is generously sponsored by Michael and Angela Hoover, Mosquito Squad of Greater Lansing.

Wind Symphony, Choral Union, University Chorale, State Singers
April 29, 8pm, Cobb Great Hall, Wharton Center.

Admission is free for students with ID and anyone under the age of 18. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (age 60 and older), and can be purchased online, at the College of Music box office, by calling (517) 353-5340, or in person (333 W. Circle Drive, East Lansing), or at the door at Wharton Center. Purchasing tickets through Wharton’s ticket office or website will include a $3 restoration fee. This is not a College of Music fee.