Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale, under the musical direction of Jeffrey R. Smith, presents Messages, a powerful season finale concert featuring classical, jazz and spirituals written by African American composers. A highlight during the concert will be the debut of a newly released Teddy Pendergrass song, I Am Who I Am that hit the airwaves on what would have been the soul legend’s 61st birthday.
The Choir’s concert will mark the premiere of this autobiographical piece performed with 80 choir members, complemented by a men’s chorale and 30-piece orchestra. Gifted soloist, Dannis Winston, selected by The Pendergrass Estate will lead the group on vocals.
Choir maestro, Jeff Smith is excited to conduct this moving piece saying, “Herb (Middleton) and Bill (Jolly) have created a fantastic way to honor Teddy through this song. The choir sang with Teddy back in the ’70’s at a performance in Philadelphia, so it’s great to give a new generation of boys this exciting opportunity.”
In early March, the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale was asked to provide the background vocals to complement Teddy’s professional recording that was made shortly before his passing. Joan Pendergrass, Teddy’s widow lovingly says “this song is a gift of inspiration from Teddy to the world”.
In addition to I Am Who I Am, the two hour concert will include an array of classical and spirituals by a variety of African American composers. They include, Listen to the Lambs, Done Made My Vow and Poor Wayfarin’ Stranger.
This multifaceted ensemble will also perform popular music including I’ll Be There as sung by the Jackson Five. Audience members will also enjoy a Duke Ellington medley, Ragtime Dance by Scott Joplin and Messages by Bobby McFerrin/Roger Treece just to name a few.
The afternoon performance on June 12, 2011 will begin promptly at 3:30 PM at The Church of St. Isaac Jogues, 349 Evesboro-Medford Rd., Marlton, NJ 08053.
Tickets can be ordered either by phone at 215-222-3500 Ext. 1 or online at www.phillyboyschoir.org. Doors open at 3 PM. All seats are $40. General Admission Seating only. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more.
The success of the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale relies heavily on contributions from area organizations and sponsors. Thanks to a generous donation from the South Jersey Charitable Foundation, the elite performing choir will debut newly purchased red blazers at this performance.
Any boy age 7-12 is welcome to audition to become a part of this area’s finest musical ensemble. No experience necessary. Just a passion for singing, a desire to perform, make new friends, and travel extensively. If you know anyone musically inclined who is interested please call the choir office at 215-222-3500 to register for an audition.
This summer the group will travel The Wild West! with performances in several US cities beginning with the prestigious Grand Teton Music Festival in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Tours and performances will also take place in Utah, Colorado and California.
Leave a Comment