The University of Wisconsin–La Crosse Department of Music will present a combined choral concert featuring the UWL Concert Choir and the UWL Treble Chorus on Friday, March 6 at 7:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 2503 Main St. The performance is free and open to the public.
The evening showcases a rich and varied program centered on themes of water, reflection, resilience, and community.
The UWL Concert Choir, conducted by Dr. Christopher M. Hathaway and accompanied by Joseph Louis, piano, will perform an engaging selection of contemporary and traditional works. The program includes “Famine Song” by VIDA, arranged by Matthew Culloton; “Rivers of Light” by Latvian composer Ēriks Ešenvalds; the spiritual “Deep River,” arranged by Phil Mattson; and “Water Night” by Eric Whitacre. The ensemble will also present “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Paul Simon, arranged by Kirby Shaw, bringing a familiar classic into the choral setting.
The UWL Treble Chorus, conducted by Dr. Kourtney R. Austin and accompanied by Joseph Louis, will offer a diverse and expressive program. Highlights include “Vidi Aquam” by Kevin T. Padworski, featuring Dr. Mary Tollefson, piano; “Gather at the River,” arranged by Susan LaBarr; “Water Fountain” by Nathaniel Brenner and Merrill Garbus; and the sea-inspired “Away From the Roll of the Sea” by Allister MacGillivray, arranged by Diane Loomer. The ensemble will also perform Au bord de l’eau by Gabriel Fauré, arranged by Alan Raines, and conclude with “Take Me to the Water” by Rollo Dilworth.
Together, the two ensembles bring expressive range and musical depth to a program that moves fluidly between contemporary choral writing, spiritual traditions, folk influences, and beloved popular song. The concert reflects UWL’s commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement through live performance.
The public is warmly invited to attend this evening of choral music in the resonant acoustic setting of First Congregational Church.