I RISE: Women in Song

The Worcester Chorus Women’s Ensemble joins Cantilena Women’s Voices, Arlington’s adult treble
chorus, in a collaborative program that features “I Rise: Women in Song” by acclaimed cross-cultural
composer Reena Esmail. Esmail’s music weaves classical music from many perspectives and traditions. “I
Rise” is a multi-movement composition, inspired by the writings of renowned women (Roosevelt, Angelou,
Geller & Dickinson.) Esmail writes “Some …are sweet, subtle, and nostalgic. Others are fiery and bold. …Each
movement is a reflection on a single facet of the multifaceted experience of being a woman in this world.”

Led by Mark Mummert, the Worcester Chorus Women’s Ensemble will perform songs by Gwyneth
Walker, followed by Artistic Director Elinor A. Armsby and the Women of Cantilena singing “Standing Tall”
by Ellen Gilson Voth; “Ave Maria” by Eleanor Daley; and “Warrior Song” by Kym Baryluk. Together, the two
choruses will perform Elizabeth Alexander’s “Why I Pity..” Then all 50 voices will be joined by seven guest
instrumentalists to present the title work, “I Rise: Women in Song.”

Cantilena takes pride in presenting contemporary works by women composers to new audiences.
On Mother’s Day Weekend we will be in Worcester on Friday, May 8th and in Arlington on Saturday, May 9th.
A reception with light refreshments will follow the concert. For further details go to cantilena.org.

Tickets ($0-$30) advance sales & discounts, student, senior, Card-to-Culture e-tickets available online.
Cash, checks, credit card purchases can be made at the door 30 minutes prior to the performances.

For questions contact: info@cantilena.org or info@musicworcester.org