Areté Vocal Ensemble

Areté returns to the stage for its 13th season, which promises to be the most interesting and eclectic yet. The innovative professional ensemble of vocal artists will open the Together at Last concert with a performance of Quarantine Madrigals (2020) by Indian American composer Reena Esmail. Composed in response to the pandemic, Quarantine Madrigals is intended to trace the break from society, the descent into isolation and the eventual return to one another experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also on the program is Membra Jesu nostri (1680) by the Baroque master Dieterich Buxtehude. This virtuosic work for voices and strings, known as the first Lutheran oratorio, is a cycle of seven cantatas, each a meditation on a different part of Christ's crucified body: feet, knees, hands, sides, breast, heart and face.

With uncompromising attention to musical detail and a passion for live performance, Areté will provide a joyful, moving, educational and soul-nurturing experience. Wyant Morton will conduct.

Tickets are $20 at the door or $15 if purchased online in advance; $10 for students with ID. For the safety of all, audience members must wear masks and show proof of being fully vaccinated for COVID-19. This policy applies to audience members of all ages. Fully vaccinated musicians may perform without masks if they have obtained a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the concert.

For information and to purchase tickets, visit www.aretevocalensemble.org.