Features two masterful settings of the Magnificat by Johann Sebastian Bach and Sir John Rutter. The Magnificat is based on the song Mary sings as she learns she is carrying the Son of God. These two settings are among the most performed and loved settings of the Magnificat today.

Testament of Freedom
Friday, February 15, 2008
7:30 p.m.
First Baptist Church of Jackson

This concert celebrates those elements of freedom and democracy that make America unique. Randall Thompson’s Testament of Freedom is a setting of a collection of famous writings by Thomas Jefferson. The opening line ‘The God who gave us life gave us liberty’ sets the tone for an inspiring evening of music. Paired with this masterpiece is Howard Hanson’s Song of Democracy derived from excerpts of Walt Whitman’s "An Old Man's Thoughts of School" and the soaring lines of "Sail, Sail thy best, ship of Democracy" from the fourth part of "Thou Mother with Thy Equal Brood."

Brahms' Requiem
Saturday, May 10, 2008
7:30 p.m.
Galloway United Methodist Church

Considered by some as the most loved and performed Requiem of all time, Johannes Brahms’ setting of the Requiem is an audience thriller from the opening bar to the end. Combining forces with the MS Chorus on this concert will be the Chancel Choir from Galloway Memorial United Methodist Church.

A quote from the past:
"Te Deum," Mozart -- "... sung impeccably, with a perfect balance." Glenn Gentry, Continuo