Pep choir to perform a variety of classical tunes in ‘Concert Potpourri.’
By Jen Clay
A&E Assistant
Smothers Theatre patrons will get a whiff of fresh air Tuesday night when Pepperdine’s concert choir opens its season with “Concert Potpourri.” Under the direction of professor Milton Pullen, the choir plans to perform selections by Monte-verdi, Clausen and Brahms. Pullen selected the pieces with the audience in mind.
“The music caters to the sophisticated listener as well as the novice listener,” he said.
Professor Sara Banta and student accompanists Roksana Zeinapur and Trey Davis will accompany the choir. In addition to the selections performed by the concert choir, the women of the choir will perform two selections under the direction of Dr. Melanie Emelio, associate professor of music. The men’s choir will follow with three numbers, including a rendition of “The Lord’s Prayer” arranged by Jim Clancy.
“There is a very beautiful arrangement of “The Lord’s Prayer” that will be a real crowd-pleaser,” Pullen said.
Pullen said he has been planning the concert since spring semester.
“As I was putting the concert together in May, I balanced between standard repertoire and choral music that’s lighter.”
The choir, on the other hand, has had four weeks to prepare Pullen’s selections. “We’re doing 17 numbers within 16 rehearsals,” Pullen said. “Last Thursday the music started coming together, so I think it’s really going to be an excellent program.”
Pullen is also looking forward to revisiting the work of a favorite composer.
“Brahms is my favorite composer. I love that piece [“Zum Schluss”]. I’ve done it many, many times.”
September 25, 2003