30 years ago it was just a dream. Starting humbly and in the shadow of the orchestra (CSO), the Canton Symphony Chorus is stronger than ever. Formed as a volunteer adult ensemble, the chorus is now 65 members strong and able to tackle such major works as Brahms, Berlioz, Mozart and Verdi requiems, Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, Gershwin's Porgy and Bess, and Orff's Carmina Burana. Last season they performed with the CSO for Mahler's Symphony No. 2.
On Sunday, February 16, the chorus will perform Brahms' German Requiem, one of music's all-time masterpieces and crowd favorite. The Malone University Chorus will join the performance to make the ensemble 125 members strong.Dr. Britt Cooper, Chorus Director, remarks, "Accepting the directorship of the Canton Symphony Chorus last season was such a privilege. The opportunity to perform major works with a symphony orchestra of this caliber is a rare and treasured opportunity for me and for the members of the Chorus. We look forward to sharing one of the musical monuments of Western Civilization, the Brahms Requiem, with our audience." Along with the chorus, the requiem is scored for soprano and baritone soloists. Soprano Rachel Hall and baritone Brian Keith Johnson will fill these solo parts. Rachel Hall is from Chapel Hill, North Carolina and has appeared worldwide in a litany of operatic roles. Mr. Johnson hails from Northeast Ohio and returns to Canton with a stunning global reputation and an extensive resume.Videos