Local vocal musicians featured at Fox Theatre in Hutchinson
A special evening of music featuring local vocalists is planned for Saturday at the historic Fox Theatre, 18 E. First Ave., Hutchinson.
Sponsored by Hesston College, the 7 p.m. program will feature vocal music performed by baritone soloist and Hesston College artist-in-residence Anthony Brown, the college's Bel Canto Singers directed by Jacob Rittenhouse, the Haven High School Wildcat Singers directed by Scott Hay, and the Elbiata Singers from Goessel High School directed by Greg Bontrager.
The evening will feature individual numbers from each participant, then a combined choir will join soloist Brown for several African-American spirituals.
A guest reception will follow the concert at Tiffany House Restaurant, 20 S. Main St., Hutchinson, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Brown is a promoter of peace and goodwill around the world and across the U.S. He has recorded three CDs. The first one is titled Spirituals with cover art by the renowned African-American artist Jacob Lawrence. His second recording, titled Embracing American Song, is a collection of folk songs, sacred songs, and popular songs of the 19th century. His third recording, in collaboration with the Spirituals Project Choir of Denver (Colo.), is titled Toil and Triumph.
While Brown also sings a standard classical repertoire, he has made a specialty of performing "music of the American experience." This includes art songs, Broadway show tunes and ballads, folk songs, American songs, and spirituals.
Brown is also a part-time professor in the sociology and history departments at Hesston College.
Much of Bel Canto's repertoire is from the four-part a capella tradition, including hymns and spirituals. The 20-member group is directed by Jake Rittenhouse, a Hesston College music professor, and accompanied by Albena Akers.
The Wildcat Singers from Haven High School is comprised of 18 sophomores, juniors, and seniors. The group toured New Orleans, La., in March. Director Scott Hay has been teaching for 18 years, including the past two years at Haven High School. A former Kansas Music Educators Association (KMEA) district and state choral chair, Hay performs with the Wichita Chamber Chorale.
The 20 students in the Elbiata Singers audition for the privilege of singing with the group. The mixed ensemble has received a superior rating each year at the state music contest. Director Greg Bontrager, a 1986 graduate of Hesston College, has been teaching vocal music in the Goessel school system for 15 years. He holds a master of music education degree from Wichita State University. Bontrager serves as the state KMEA chairman.
Tickets for the event are $5 per person and should be purchased in advance through the Fox Theatre by calling 620-663-5861 or at the theatre box office. Tickets are available at all high school and college locations. Tickets may be purchased at the door the evening of the event.
