In our November 7th Our Star Will Not Wane program, we’ll be performing two works by Dr. Rosephayne Powell, recognized as one of America’s premier composers of choral music. She is noted for works filled with heartfelt melodies, strong rhythms and rich harmonies, influenced by classical choral works, romantic art songs, spirituals and African-American popular styles.

The first piece, Arise Beloved, is a romantic art song inspired by the classic poem Song of Solomon. Here the piano represents the beautiful sounds of nature, providing inspiration and imagery, while the rich vocal harmonies evoke a call and answer response expressing the excitement of a long awaited reunion of love and passion.