Review: FREEDOM! with the River City Men's Chorus at St. James UMC In Little Rock

Freedom rang out in glorious harmony as the River City Men’s Chorus took to the stage at St. James United Methodist Church in Little Rock with their latest program, FREEDOM, under the direction of Conductor David Glaze. With one more opportunity to catch this moving concert on Thursday, April 23 at 7:00 p.m., audiences would be wise to get there early, because seats fill up fast!

The program, aptly titled FREEDOM, explored the many facets of what it means to be free—personal freedom, cultural freedom, and the ongoing journey toward equality and acceptance. Glaze’s vision for the evening was not simply musical, but deeply philosophical. As he shared in his program notes, “Designing a program around the word freedom may be one of the most challenging tasks I’ve ever undertaken. At first, it sounds simple—but the more you reflect on it, the more you realize that each of us experiences freedom in different ways, or sometimes even the absence of it.” That thoughtful intention was evident from the very first note and carried throughout the evening.

Inspired in part by Langston Hughes, Conductor Glaze grounded the concert in a broader cultural and historical context. By weaving together the words of poets, presidents, and visionaries, the program became not just a concert, but a meditation on gratitude and responsibility, honoring those who fought for these freedoms while encouraging us to reflect on how we live them daily.

Glaze has a true gift for curating a concert arc, and it was especially evident in the first half of the program, which leaned into majestic, almost reverent selections that set the tone for the evening. The concert opened with “I Dream a World,” immediately establishing both the emotional and musical landscape. The richness of the chorus was beautifully complemented by an intimate  solo from Bob Stobaugh, whose voice carried a sincerity that invited the audience into the journey ahead. 

That sense of reverence carried through to the close of the first half with “The Star-Spangled Banner,” with music by John Stafford Smith and arranged by Mark Hayes. It was here that the evening transcended performance and became something deeply communal. As the final notes rang out, I found myself moved to tears, glancing around to see audience members quietly singing along to themselves. There was a stillness in their expressions—one that suggested reflection, memory, and perhaps even personal connections to service in the armed forces. It was a profoundly human moment, where music became a bridge between past and present, performer and listener.

The second half offered a striking contrast in musical style, immediately shifting the emotional palette. “Like Dust I Rise,” with words by Maya Angelou and music by Mark Hayes, opened in a haunting minor key that carried both weight and resilience. The tonal shift was effective, drawing the audience into a more introspective space. Soloist Dan Stevens then stepped forward for Movement III, “Equality,” lending his voice with clarity and conviction, embodying the message with a vulnerability that resonated throughout the sanctuary.

And then, it was time for the incomparable Satia Spencer. Taking on “Stand Up” from the 2019 film Harriet, Spencer delivered a performance that was nothing short of electrifying. Let me say it again—she gets all my starry-heart eyes! Her voice soared with power and purpose, infused with a passion that felt both deeply personal and universally felt. Every note rang with determination, every phrase carried urgency, and by the end, the room felt transformed. It wasn’t just a performance, it was a moment.

The chorus then shifted into the traditional spiritual “Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel,” and this is where the energy in the room took on an entirely new life. As Glaze enthusiastically put it, Satia “took us to church, ”and she absolutely did. With electrifying presence and soul-stirring vocals, Spencer led the charge, igniting the chorus and audience alike. The rhythmic drive, the call-and-response feel, and the sheer joy embedded in the performance made it impossible not to be swept up in the moment.

Following that high-energy spiritual, soloist Larry Root echoed his own spiritual awakening during his moment with “Woke Up This Morning,” arranged by Austin Hunt. His performance carried a steady conviction, offering a moment of reflection while still maintaining the program’s emotional momentum.

Satia Spencer then returned for one final showcase moment, delivering “I Sing Because I’m Happy” with “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” transcending the concert through a tenderness with her phrasing that drew the audience in completely. Her soaring vocals filled the sanctuary with warmth and assurance, and the response was immediate with a well-earned  standing ovation. 

To close the evening, the full chorus united for “This Is the Dream,” with words by Rose Aspinall and music composed and arranged by Mary McDonald. It was a fitting finale—hopeful, powerful, and rooted in the very themes that defined the night. As their voices rose together one last time, it was clear that this was more than just a concert. It was a shared expression of hope, resilience, and the enduring belief in a better tomorrow.

What makes FREEDOM particularly impactful is its relevance. In a time when conversations about identity, equality, and belonging continue to evolve, this program feels both timely and necessary. The River City Men’s Chorus didn’t shy away from these themes; instead, they embraced them with honesty and artistry, creating a performance that touched the heart. You do not want to miss this celebration of voice, of community, and of the enduring power of music. For more information, visit their website at https://www.rivercitymenschorus.com/. 

INSTRUMENTALISTS

Tammie Burger -- Pianist

Susan Antonetti -- Flute

Lorraine Duso Kitts -- Oboe

Marietta Hunt -- Timpani

Justin Bunting -- Percussion

Matthew Stone -- Guitar

Drew Irvin -- Violin I

Kristen Bomberger -- Ciolin II

Isaac Asher -- Viola

Paul Seminara -- Cello

Joe Vick -- Bass

Andrew Stadler -- Trumpet

Heather Thayer -- French Horn