Michael O'Neal Singers Will Present ASCENDING INTO LIGHT in This May
The one-afternoon-only performance of works by Ola Gjeilo and Elaine Hagenberg will take place at Roswell United Methodist Church.
The Michael O'Neal (MOS) Chorus and Orchestra has announced a one-afternoon-only musical event, "Ascending into Light: A Journey of Transcendence," taking place Sunday, May 3, 2026, at 3:00 PM. This immersive program features two of the most significant contemporary choral works of the 21st century: Ola Gjeilo's Sunrise Mass and Elaine Hagenberg's Illuminare.
Set within the resonant acoustics of Roswell United Methodist Church, the performance is designed as a visceral, live-only experience. Breaking away from the world of digital recordings, the MOS Chorus and Orchestra emphasizes the physical power of the human voice and a live orchestra working in tandem.
The program offers a clear narrative of transformation. Gjeilo's Sunrise Mass serves as a "celestial ascent," beginning with the ethereal whispers of dawn and moving toward a deeply personal musical awakening. The journey continues with Hagenberg's Illuminare, a work that acknowledges the chaos of the modern world before leading the audience toward a restored sense of peace and hope.
"While music can be heard anywhere, it can only be truly felt in the presence of a live ensemble," says the MOS office. "This concert is an invitation to witness the physical power of dozens of voices rising in unison-a sensory depth that digital media simply cannot replicate."
In a significant move for the 2025/26 season, the Michael O'Neal Singers have announced that there are no ticket fees for this production.
About the Michael O'Neal Singers:
The Michael O'Neal Singers is a premier choral ensemble in North Atlanta, known for world-class performances that foster a powerful sense of community. Under the artistic direction of Dr. Michael O'Neal, the group remains a cornerstone of the Georgia performing arts scene.
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