How did you first become involved with the Pro Musica International Choral Festival? What attracted you to it?
I first learned about the Pro Musica International Festival through an exhibit at a Chorus America conference. I became attracted to the festival after learning about the mission of Albany Pro Musica and its commitment to the choral music education of young people.
Rollo Dilworth, Chorus America board member and past chair, will be the 2023 Pro Musica International Choral Festival Guest Conductor & Composer
What’s your perspective as a guest conductor, working intensively with a large group of students that has just come together for a short time? How do you develop a rapport and musical chemistry so quickly?
In addition to my job of building the artistry of the students, it is critical that I work equally hard to build community among them. I believe that conductors must allow time for the singers to get to know one another even as they are learning the music in rehearsal. Even though we are only together for a short period of time, it is imperative that we develop a collective identity and learn to operate as a team. Every voice matters, and every voice is crucial to the success of the ensemble. While it is true that “choral blend” is necessary in order for the ensemble to achieve its goals, it is equally important for each singer to be assured that they can bring their individual vocal talents to the teaching and learning experience.
What are the highlights of the inaugural 2023 festival that you’re most looking forward to?
I look forward to singers from diverse backgrounds coming together to explore repertoire representing a vast array of cultural traditions and style periods. Essentially, my hope is that everyone will leave the experience having learned about a musical or cultural tradition that is different from their own lived experience.
Albany Pro Musica hosts an annual day-long High School Choral Festival - and the organization's commitment to engaging young singers will expand through the Pro Musica International Choral Festival in a week-long format.
What do you hope that participating choirs and singers will gain from their experience working with you, and throughout the festival week?
I hope that participating choirs and singers will develop a deeper appreciation for choral music and its power to teach us valuable and important life-lessons about the world around us.
What is the focus of your commissioned composition? What can students look forward to when they’re singing with you?
I hope the commissioned work will be inspiring and empowering. I want the text and music to encourage choral artists to use their voices in song for the purpose of making positive contributions to the communities they serve. Major themes of the work will include unity, equality, community, and social justice.
The inaugural Pro Musica International Choral Festival will be held July 16-22, 2023 in Kingston, Ontario, with space for 150 high school musicians. Applications are open to individual singers and choirs, now open through January 31.
This article is sponsored by Albany Pro Musica. Thank you for supporting the partners that make Chorus America’s work possible. If you are interested in learning more about sponsored articles, please contact us at [email protected].