Feature
Melodia celebrates 20 years
by Teresa Shyr for Vocal Area Network
Posted April 24, 2023

Melodia: 20 yearsCelebrate 20 years of Melodia and the victories and voices of women throughout history! Join us on May 6, 2023, 7:30 PM for "Always Something Sings: Women's Voices Through the Ages" for a journey through time, uplifting the victories and voices of courageous women with themes of perseverance, resilience and hope. This 27-singer ensemble, joined by an all-female chamber ensemble, will present a musical selection of rarely-heard gems and Melodia favorites that amplify the achievements of women spanning twelve centuries.

"Not only are Melodians singing all of this beautiful music, but they've written personal stories about women's quest for knowledge, standing up for working women, women of color in the arts, and women's actions for peace. I love that our singers are so intimately involved," says Artistic Director and Conductor Cynthia Powell.

The concert will feature works by Hildegard von Bingen, Abbie Betinis and Ola Gjeilo. Other highlights include Judy Collins's rendition of Bread and Roses, 21st-century works including excerpts of Melodia-commissioned works by composers Allison Sniffin and Cevanne Horrocks-Hopayian, a New York premiere by Emily Mason, and a new edition of Margaret Bonds's Sleep Song. The string quartet will also perform Florence B. Price's Negro Folksongs in Counterpoint, each movement drawing from a different spiritual.

Joining Melodia for their 20th anniversary celebration are powerhouse musicians Allison Sniffin, piano and organ; Jessica Park and Keiko Tokunaga, violins; Gizem Yucel, viola, and Ani Kalayjian, cello, bringing their nationally recognized talents to the program.

"The program we are presenting this season celebrates Melodia's 20th anniversary by sharing the voices of women -- their accomplishments and music -- through history," said Jennifer Clarke, Melodia's Founder and Executive Director.

Live concert: Saturday, May 6 at 7:30 PM, Holy Apostles, 296 Ninth Avenue (at 28th Street), New York City. Concert information: melodiawomenschoirnyc.org/melodia-womens-choir-in-concert/. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $15 for students and seniors in advance; tickets at the door are $25. Order tickets at www.eventbrite.com/e/always-something-sings-melodia-womens-choir-spring-concert-live-tickets-558270832087.

Virtual concert: Saturday, June 17 at 7:30 PM (FREE). The concert will be broadcast via YouTube for those who cannot attend in person. Free admission; register at www.eventbrite.com/e/always-something-sings-melodia-womens-choir-virtual-spring-concert-tickets-558274001567.

For more about Melodia Women's Choir, visit melodiawomenschoirnyc.org.


Teresa Shyr handles publicity for Melodia Women's Choir.