The British vocal ensemble VOCES8 performed their showcase of Renaissance music with pop and jazz in the Grand Hall of the Martin Center for the Arts on Tuesday, Oct. 26.
This concert was sponsored by the ETSU Department of Music and the Mary B. Martin School of the Arts.
While here on campus, VOCES8 also presented a master class in the Grand Hall, which means to perform an open lesson to anyone who would like to attend and learn more about the techniques that could help in their own personal performances.
During their concert, they performed songs by Bach, Britten, Byrd, and also songs including “Me and My Shadow,” “I Won’t Dance,” “Cheek to Cheek” and “Straighten Up and Fly Right.”
“This is an incredible opportunity for our students and our community to hear one of the greatest choral groups in the world,” said Dr. Matthew Potterton, chair of the ETSU Department of Music, originally written by the Office of University Marketing and Communications.
VOCES8 is passionate for music education, showing just that in their master class on campus. They have created the VOCES8 Foundation, a charity that focuses on music education. They want to ensure “Music Education for All,” and they know how important music education is to so many people around the world.
They also started a new digital academy which came more to life during the pandemic. During those times, it was deemed dangerous or unhealthy for performers to sing together in the same room without spreading germs. Therefore, they created the digital academy to help those who wanted to learn. They taught with teaching videos, interactive videos, warm-up exercises, methods, coaching, performances and more.
For more information on upcoming events in the Music Department, contact the ETSU Department of Music at 423-439-4276 or music@etsu.edu.
