Feature
Melodia presents "She Sang the Stars"
by Kayla Oderah for Vocal Area Network
Posted November 4, 2024

Melodia: November 16Melodia Women's Choir is thrilled to announce its upcoming fall concert, "She Sang the Stars," scheduled to take place live on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 7:30 PM at the Holy Apostles Church in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. The event will also be available for free virtual broadcast on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at 7:00 PM (ET) via YouTube.

As a champion of female works, Melodia has curated a program with songs that celebrate the dynamic journey of womanhood. The concert will feature the New York premiere of the riveting work by Sarah Quartel, She Sang the Stars, as the centerpiece for the evening. The concert will also include a performance of Magnificat, an epic masterpiece by Kim André Arnesen.

Melodia artistic director and conductor Cynthia Powell speaks on this season's noteworthy program. "This concert unites a variety of thought-provoking female voices from across the ages. The music combines compelling melodies and nuanced prose allowing listeners to see womanhood through different lenses, both for its beauty and complexity."

Melodia will be joined by Janet Sora Chung on piano, Allison Sniffin on organ as well as a string quintet. The program will showcase a diverse selection of musical pieces, including:

  • O Viridissima Virga by Hildegard von Bingen, an enchanting medieval hymn celebrating the Virgin Mary and her role in salvation history.
  • She Sang the Stars by Sarah Quartel, based on stories inspired by three women characters from the Finnish epic poem the Kalevala. The five movements of the piece include "Start Off Singing"; "Water-Mother"; "She Ran"; "Stealing Fire"; and "Song of the Stars."
  • Quintet in E Major, Op. 1, movement 1 "Allegro con brio" by Ethel Smyth.
  • Magnificat by Norwegian composer Kim AndrĂ© Arnesen, conceived as a prayer for the sick and the poor, out of hope for those who struggle, and as a musical reflection of Mary.

Powell states, "Melodia takes pride in advancing the musical landscape through composition and unique programming. We're excited to showcase works of women speaking truth to power and can't wait to share this beautiful collection of songs with the community."

Join Melodia Women's Choir for an evening of music that inspires. Don't miss a chance to be a part of this special musical experience. To learn more and stay updated on Melodia Women's Choir, follow Melodia on social media and visit their website at melodiawomenschoirnyc.org.

Our fall concert, "She Sang the Stars," is Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 7:30 PM at Holy Apostles, 296 Ninth Avenue (between West 27th and West 28th Streets). Tickets to the live concert can be purchased online. The virtual concert is free of charge with online registration.


Kayla Oderah is the marketing coodinator for Melodia Women's Choir.