For Immediate Release: July 16, 2007
Contact: Marsha Nishi Mullan
610-328-8535
http://www.swarthmore.edu/news

The Chester Children's Chorus will present a program of American music at its summer concert at Swarthmore College on Friday and Saturday, July 27 and 28, at 8 p.m. in Lang Concert Hall. The 75-voice chorus will sing contemporary classical music, folk songs, African-American spirituals, and original gospel music written by chorus director and associate professor of music John Alston. Alston will also direct the performances.

The all-American theme led the children into conversations about the complexities of America's history and its role in the world, said Alston. "We talked about the Constitution and the compromises that shaped it and about our current divisions over immigration," he said. "In each case, the music was the starting point."

The performances are free and open to the public. Children and families are welcome. Tickets are not required. Doors will open at 7:30 p.m. and will close when all seats are filled.

These July concerts culminate a five-week Summer Learning Program at the College that all chorus members attend. Chorus members are children 8 to 17 years old from the Chester-Upland School District.

The chorus program, which also includes school-year rehearsals and concerts, is made possible by generous support from individuals, foundations, corporations, and Swarthmore College.