Chorale Features Female Writers in Music She Wrote

REDLANDS >> The Inland Master Chorale performs music composed or arranged by females at “Music, She Wrote” on March 5 and 6 at the First United Methodist Church, 1 East Olive Avenue in Redlands. While female composers and arrangers are underrepresented in the so-called standard repertoire, it’s not because women haven’t written music. Until the 20th century, Western cultures generally disapproved of women working outside of the home and this included having musical careers. Rather they were encouraged to play and sing at home for friends and family. Some notable exceptions came from famous musical families such as Maria Anna “Nannerl” Mozart and Fanny Mendelssohn. The concert includes Mendelssohn’s “Lockung,” sung in German. The Chorale performs several familiar folk songs, spirituals and hymns by female arrangers including “Goin’ to Boston” by Alice Parker, “How Can I Keep from Singing?” by Gwyneth Walker, and “Ride On, King Jesus!” by Nancy Wertsch. Karen Seals arrangement of “Don’t Be Weary, Traveler” will feature soprano soloist Susan Meinders. The men of the Chorale sing “Bound for Jubilee,” a spiritual by Joyce Elaine Eilers. The women sing “I Thank You God,” with music by Gwyneth Walker and lyrics by poet E.E Cummings. Contemporary pieces include “All Works of Love” by Joan Szymko written in 2010 which features the words of Mother Teresa, and 1995’s “Prayer of the Children,” arranged by Andrea S. Klouse, which was inspired by the suffering children of the Bosnian war. The 60-member chorale is under the direction of Roger Duffer, with associate Melva Morrison who also serves as accompanist. The Chorale’s concert season finale, “Just for the Fun of It!” on May 14 and 15, will offer light-hearted selections from a variety of genres. Concert tickets are $18 in advance, $20 at the door and $10 for students and children. Concerts begin at 8 p.m. on Saturdays and 3 p.m. on Sundays. Children five and under are not admitted. Advance tickets online at www.inlandmasterchorale.org or (909) 798-4462.