Children`s Choir Takes On Challenging Piece of Work | Video

Amanda Tetlak | 12/17/2010

The Central Dakota Children`s Choir holiday concert is always an impressive show. But this year, the talented student singers upped the ante.

At tonight`s concert, the five CDCC choirs will join together to perform a 15 minute song.

The Central Dakota Children`s Choir is taking on a big piece of work: the "Vivaldi Gloria."

"Which is one of the highlighted pieces from the baroque period. It was written by Antonia Vivaldi, who was very well known for working with children. One of his nicknames was the Red Priest," said Cantus and Kantorei Director Mike Seil.

The singers are performing five of the Vivaldi Gloria`s 12 movements. It`s the most challenging piece of work the choir has taken on both in terms of difficulty and length. Normally it`s a piece reserved for professional adult choirs.

"We`re third grade through 12th grade and we`re singing this Vivaldi," said Ross Neumann, Cantus Choir. "It`s like, `How is this going to sound?` but when you put it all together and actually listen to it, it sounds awesome."

The singers have been practicing the piece since summer and say seeing it come together through all their hard work is rewarding.

"How it`s kind of like, `Oh I understand how to sing it!` Once we finally get that perfect where it`s supposed to be it`s just a feeling of greatness," said Fate Maxom, Kantorei Choir.

"Like goose bumps, the whole time because it`s so epic when you sing it so I think it`ll feel great when we`re done," added Neumann.

The choirs` directors say there was never any doubt the young singers would be able to handle the Vivaldi Gloria and the singers appreciate the extra push.

"I think it`s amazing," said Brian Samuelson, Cantus Choir. "I like how CDCC challenges their kids especially this piece, which is the most challenging I`ve done in my nine years with them."

And the singers say they hope their audience not only enjoys their performance, but understands that kids can do a lot more than some may think.

The Central Dakota Children`s Choir will be performing tonight at the Belle Mehus theater in Bismarck at 7:30. Tickets are $12 for adults, $9 for seniors and students, and kids under 5 are free.

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