April 2024: The Music of Will Todd

Submitted by Jason Throne, Brandywine Valley Chorale & Unionville High School

This past February I had the honor of hosting English composer Will Todd.   Our collaboration culminated with a performance featuring my high school and community choirs (the Unionville Chorale and Brandywine Valley Chorale, respectively) and the composer himself at the piano.   The concert included a commission by Will Todd setting the text of O Magnum Mysterium featuring solo soprano saxophone and percussion, followed by his setting of Passion Music, a 50 minute work for choir, Gospel soloist and jazz ensemble.   Much of Will Todd’s repertoire has a jazz influence giving a fresh take on what would normally be “classical” choral writing.  
 
If you have been thinking about collaborating with composers I would highly recommend it.   The experience of performing original works on stage alongside the composer is refreshing and exciting.   Having them with you allows insight to their works that makes the performance special and memorable for all involved.  
 
The combination of adult community and high school choirs performing together creates a special experience.  The intergenerational aspect of our performance is quite meaningful "as the wide age range (in this instance, 14 - 80), imbues the experience with new life.   In fact, it gives the opportunity for mothers and fathers who perform in the adult choir the ability to share the stage with their children.  This creates special moments not soon forgotten.
 
I took this opportunity to invite some local high school choirs to join us for this event.   I firmly believe these types of experiences should be shared with other high school choirs if possible.  This was a perfect opportunity to bring in advanced choirs from Kennett and Pequea Valley High Schools who were thrilled to join us.  Their participation added depth and richness to our ensemble.  If you plan on inviting outside groups, make sure all involved understand what the participation requirements are for the performance.
 
I would be happy to speak with anyone who is interested in doing their own choir collaboration with choral composers.  I have participated in a handful of composer collaborations, including one with Ola Gjeilo, featuring a concert of this music with the composer once again at the piano.  These experiences are obtainable and will prove to be a highlight of your career in music education.