ISSUED: 21 August 2019
MEDIA CONTACT: Valerie Owens
SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV — Shepherd University’s School of Music is offering a new opportunity for community members to participate in the Aries Tenor/Bass Choir, which is now open to community tenors and basses, regardless of gender. The choir will meet on Wednesday nights in the Frank Center from 7:30-9:30 p.m. beginning August 28. Participants are offered the opportunity to perform in Shepherd’s Fall Choral Concert on Friday, October 25, as well as the Annual Holiday Gala concerts on Saturday, December 7, and Sunday, December 8.
“I have been asked many times to consider forming a new choir for the community. I resisted because I just didn’t have the time to form another choir,” said Dr. Robert Tudor, dean, College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, and longtime director of the Aries Tenor/Bass Choir. “However, creating musical communities is something very close to my heart, so I am happy to finally offer this opportunity for members of the community so they can reap the benefits of participating in a choir.”
Citing information in Daniel Pink’s book “When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing,” Tudor pointed out that choral singing is a healthy endeavor that is calming, boosts endorphin levels, improves lung function, increases pain thresholds, and reduces the need for pain medication. Pink added in his book, “People who sing in a group report far higher well-being than those who sing solo. It’s about synchronizing with others.”
Shepherd’s Aries Tenor/Bass Choir performs music from early chant to contemporary commercial music. Members do not have to be able to read music because they learn with weekly instruction in the rehearsals, assisted by music majors, and also have access to supplemental rehearsal recordings. In rehearsals, they practice healthy posture, breathing, phonation, and diction. They also discuss the repertoire, poetry, and culture related to the music.
To arrange an audition and for registration information, contact Tudor at rtudor@shepherd.edu.
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