CMU Music and dance programs team up for collaborative performance
Colorado Mesa University’s Department of Music will present Celtic Impressions February 6 at 7:30pm in the Moss Performing Arts Center Mesa Experimental Theatre. The recital will feature CMU voice faculty Chris McKim, baritone, and Caitlin Moore, mezzo-soprano.
The song repertoire for Celtic Impressions all have a connection with England, Ireland or Scotland — from classical songs by Vaughan Williams and Finzi to older folk ballads, music theatre and contemporary works. The soloists will be joined by a Celtic band featuring Ben McLam, piano; Max Reilly, keyboard and arrangements); Amanda Chipchase, violin; Darin Kamstra, accordion and percussion; Kelley Latshaw, flute; Elise Anderson, harp; and Scott Betts, guitar and vocals.
“I have always dearly loved English classical song literature and have long wanted to perform an evening of this music,” said McKim. “Some of my earliest love of music comes from Celtic folk music. “As CMU's music program encourages the value of a wide variety of musical styles, this seemed a great chance to combine two of my musical favorites.”
In addition, dance faculty Kathy Diehl was invited to choreograph a dance for one of the pieces which will be performed by student dancers Kara Farmer and Caitlin Lawson and will explore themes of loss, sorrow and lament.
“When I first heard I am Stretched on Your Grave, I was struck by the raw power of the text and music,” said McKim, “and I knew I wanted to see it physicalized as a dance performance.”
Tickets for Celtic Impressions are available at coloradomesa.edu/tickets.