with special guests Nicole Joseph and the African Children’s Choir

December 9-10, 2019 December 9, 2019, 7:30pm Long Center, Austin

December 10, 2019, 7:30pm Tobin Center, San Antonio

Craig Hella Johnson Artistic Director Nicole Joseph Guest Artist The African Children’s Choir Guest Artists Thomas Burritt Percussion Mitch Watkins Guitar

Season Sustaining Underwriter

Formerly South Texas Money Management

SAN ANTONIO | AUSTIN | HOUSTON | DALLAS Performance Sponsors CORPUS CHRISTI | BRENHAM

1 Welcome, friends!

We are delighted to come together with you tonight. In our fast-moving modern world, it seems we are all navigating an ever-increasing complex set of tasks, expectations and obligations. As we continue along this life path together, we acknowledge our hopes and “We are each other’s harvest; we are each other’s business; dreams, and our disappointments and losses. This year, we are each other’s magnitude and bond.” we find ourselves in a particularly challenging, and at — Gwendolyn Brooks times even painful, cultural climate.

Tonight we gather to begin a shared season of singing. All of us who are a part For each child that’s born of the Conspirare musical family feel the importance of our annual return to this a morning star rises gathering and we cherish the opportunities this season holds. This singing season and sings to the universe who we are. is all about stopping and allowing music and silence to mark these moments that remind us who we truly are. This season serves as a clarion call back to this much We are our grandmothers’ prayers. needed remembrance. It is a reminder that our greatest strength, our deepest We are our grandfathers’ dreamings. peace, and our most robust joy comes when we experience this life as a ‘we’ We are the breath of our ancestors, together, not separate from one another. Everything that we try to do in shaping We are the spirit of God. tonight’s program for you is to serve this clarion call, this reminder to awaken and remember. We are Mothers of courage, Each year, we have the opportunity to collaborate with wonderful friends and Fathers of time, guest artists who, with their voices, unique perspectives, styles, ways of being and Daughters of dust, life experience, show us new perspectives and shed new light on this age-old Sons of great vision. practice of seasonal refreshment. This year we are overjoyed to be joined by the We are Sisters of mercy, African Children’s Choir — our young friends from across the ocean — who are Brothers of love, here to illuminate this space and inspire us. Also, we welcome back star soprano Lovers of life and the builders of nations. Nicole Joseph who joins us from Detroit. She is a superb vocal artist, and a profoundly gifted communicator. We are Seekers of truth And keepers of faith, Tonight’s concert is our invitation for you to return home to your deepest self. Makers of peace and the wisdom of ages. We hope that in the music you will hear strains of comfort, joy, peace and delight. May our singing and listening together nourish this One Heart we all share. We are our grandmothers’ prayers. We are our grandfathers’ dreamings. We are the breath of our ancestors, We are the spirit of God. — Ysaye Barnwell

2 3 PROGRAM PROGRAM These concerts are dedicated to the children of the world. III Build My House Leonard Bernstein Please refrain from applause except where indicated by Ubi caritas Maurice Duruflé +++++++++++++++ True Love (Love is all We need) African Children’s Choir #42 Closer to Fine Indigo Girls I INVITATION AND ADVENT LAMENT Unity Daniel M. Cason III Veni Emmanuel Traditional I Need you to survive David Fraizer Prayer of the Universal Heart He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands African American Spiritual O Come Little Children/ Children We Can Mend the Sky Jake Runestad of the Heavenly Mother arr. Craig Hella Johnson Joy to the World G. F. Handel, arr. Mervyn Warren Prayer of the Children Kurt Bestor The Foundling Hall Johnson +++++++++++++++ Kumbaya Traditional Workin for the Dawn of Peace/ The Water is Wide Ron Jeffers/Traditional IV COME LOVE, CAROLING Hold On! Spiritual, arr. Moses Hogan O Come, All Ye Faithful John Francis Wade Come Down Angels Undine Smith Moore Hark the Herald Angels Sing Charles Wesley Wahamba Nathi African Children’s Choir La Primera Navidad Traditional Away in a Manger Traditional +++++++++++++++ Your little ones Dear Lord are We Traditional Sweet Little Jesus Boy Robert MacGimsey II America the Beautiful Samuel A. Ward “you cannot tell the children there is no hope” Hymn for America Stephen Paulus Beauty Frosty the Snowman Walter “Jack” Rollins & Steve Nelson Will there really be a “Morning?” Craig Hella Johnson Angels We Have Heard on High Traditional Stay Alive Jose Gonzalez Silent Night Traditional Lo., How a Rose E’er Blooming Traditional My Lord, What a Morning African American Spiritual V CLOSING Advent Lament Craig Hella Johnson We Are Each Other’s Angels African Children’s Choir Hallelujah, Amen! George Frideric Handel We Clasp the Hands Craig Hella Johnson When You Believe Stephen Schwartz I Could Have Danced All Night Frederick Lowe, arr. Craig Hella Johnson Ndikhokole Bawo Lhente-Mari Pitout Walk Together, Children African American Spiritual, arr. Moses Hogan

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4 5 TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS I. INVITATION AND ADVENT LAMENT Can you feel the hearts of the children? Aching for home, for something of their very own O come, o come, Emmanuel Reaching hands, with nothing to hold on to, And free your captive children here But hope for a better day, a better day Who mourn in lonely exiled here Until the Son of God appear Crying Mother, help me To feel the love again in my own land Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel But if unknown roads lead away from home, Shall come to thee, O Israel Give me loving arms, away from harm — Ancient Antiphons Can you hear the voice of the children? O come little children, o come one and all… Softly pleading for silence in a shattered world? Angry guns preach a gospel full of hate, O come, little children, O come, one and all. Blood of the innocent on their hands To Bethlehem haste, to the manger so small. — Christoph von Schmid Isa-Masih, help me To feel the sun again upon my face, Oh, Thou, the sustainer of our Bodies, Hearts and Souls – For when darkness clears I know you’re near, We pause this day, joining with others across the world Bringing peace again who, like us, yearn for peace and harmony and understanding. We pause to celebrate the joy of people coming together; Guiding Wisdom, help me serving one another with common goals and concerns. To feel the sun again upon my face, We pause to ask Your blessing on this, our time together, For when darkness clears I know you’re near, on gatherings like ours, across our land and across the world. Bringing peace again — Laurel Hallman Dali cujete sve djecje molitive? And may we be dedicated to the service of that great family of all souls. ¿Puedes escuchar a los niños rezar? When there is peace in the heart, there will be gentleness in the person. Can you hear the prayer of the children? When there is gentleness in the person, there will be fairness in the nation. — Kurt Bestor When there is fairness in the nation, there will be peace in the world. May we be centers of peace and help speed the day where we all may be O come, o come, Emmanuel one. And free your captive children here Amen. — Sufi Prayer The Foundling Left on a doorstep, hungry and cold, Prayer of the Children Young as your birthday, already so old. Can you hear the prayer of the children? Nothing to know you by, nameless, alone, On bended knee, in the shadow of an unknown room Who brought you here to stay? Who are your own? Empty eyes with no more tears to cry Who is your father? Turning Heavenward, toward the light Who is your mother, Poor little stranger, fresh from above? Crying Jesus, help me Who could not want you? To see the morning light-of one more day Who could not love you, But if I should die before I wake, Poor little stranger, seeking for love? I pray my soul to take Rosebuds for fingers and diamonds for eyes,

6 7 TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS What are you telling me, looking so wise? The water is wide, I cannot get o’er Clutching my fingertip, holding my eyes, Neither have I wings to fly Tell me this mystery straight from the skies. Give me a boat that can carry two “I know my Father, I know my Mother, And both shall cross my true love and I I am no stranger, here or above. God is my Father, Life my Mother, The water is wide… I am no stranger. — Traditional Scottish Folk Song I’m at home now, in Love!” I’ve been in the storm so long, — Hall Johnson I’ve been in the storm so long, children, I’ve been in the storm so long, O come, o come, Emmanuel Oh give me little time to pray. And free your captive children here — Spiritual

Hold On! Kumbaya Hold on! Hold on! Somebody’s crying, Oh Lord…Kumbaya Just a’ hold on! Somebody’s crying, Oh Lord…Kumbaya I need you Lord, today…Kumbaya Nora, Nora let me come in; I need you right away…Kumbaya de door’s all fastened an’ de winders pinned!

Somebody’s in despair Just keep yo’ hand on de plow, Somebody feels like no one cares an’ you hold on, Oh Lord, Kumbaya yes, you just hold on! Oh Lord, Kumbaya Nora said, “You lost yo’ track, Somebody’s in despair you can’t plow straight an’ keep a lookin’ back.” Somebody feels like no one cares Oh Lord, Kumbaya Well, my brother hold on! — Traditional Yes, you gotta hold on! Yes, just keep yo’ hand on de plow, Workin’ for the Dawn of Peace an’ you hold on, Two brothers on their way, yes, you gotta hold on! One wore blue and one wore gray. If you wanna get to heaven, let me tell you how: One wore blue and one wore gray, Jus’ a keep yo’ hand on de gospel plow. as they marched along their way, If dat plow stay in yo’ hand the fife and drum began to play, land you straight in de promised land. all on a beautiful mornin’. One was gentle, one was kind, Well, my sister, hold on! One came home, one stayed behind. Yes, you gotta hold on! Just keep yo’ hand on de plow, One wore blue and one wore gray, an’ you hold on, as they marched along their way, yes, you just hold on! the fife and drum began to play, Mary had a golden chain all on a beautiful mornin’. an’ every link spelled my Jesus’ name — Traditional Keep on climbin’ an’ don’t you tire, ‘cause ev’ry rung goes higher and higher! 8 9 TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS Yes! Prayin’! Stay Alive Singin’! Shoutin’ Lawd! There’s a rhythm and rush these days Where the lights don’t move and the colors don’t fade Just keep yo’ hand on de plow, Leaves you empty with nothing but dreams an’ just hold on! In a world gone shallow — Spiritual arr. Moses Hogan In a world gone lean Come Down Angels Come down, Angels, a trouble the water. Sometimes there’s things a man cannot know Let God’s saints come in. Gears won’t turn and the leaves won’t grow I love to shout I love to sing There’s no place to run and no gasoline Let God’s saints come in. Engine won’t turn I love to praise my heavenly King, And the train won’t leave Let God’s saints come in. I think I hear the Sinner say Engines won’t turn and the train won’t leave Let God’s saints come in. I will stay with you tonight My Savior taught me how to pray Hold you close ‘til the morning light Let God’s saints come in. In the morning watch a new day rise Come down, Angels, trouble the water. We’ll do whatever just to stay alive Let God’s saints come in. We’ll do whatever just to stay alive Down, down, down, down trouble — Traditional Well the way I feel is the way I write It isn’t like the thoughts of the man who lies Wahamba Nathi You walked with us, Oh you walked with us There is a truth and it’s on our side We thank you, Lion of Heaven. Dawn is coming Oh you walked with us, We thank you. Open your eyes — Traditional Look into the sun as the new days rise

+++++++++++++++ Look into the sun as the new days rise There’s a rhythm in rush these days II Where the lights don’t move and the colors don’t fade “you cannot tell the children there is no hope” Leaves you empty with nothing but dreams Will There Really be a “Morning”? In a world gone shallow Will there really be a “Morning”? In a world gone lean Is there such a thing as “Day”? Could I see it from the mountains But there is a truth and it’s on our side If I were as tall as they? Dawn is coming open your eyes Look into the sun as a new days rise Has it feet like Water lilies? — Ryan Adams and Theodore Shapiro Has it feathers like a Bird? Is it brought from famous countries Will there really be a “Morning?” Of which I have never heard? Is there such a thing as “Day?”

Oh some Scholar! Oh some Sailor! Oh some Wise Men from the skies! Please to tell a little Pilgrim Where the place called “Morning” lies! — Emily Dickinson 10 11 TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming Far as the curse is found From tender stem hath sprung! His law is Love and his gospel is peace Of Jesse’s lineage coming In excelsis Deo As men of old have sung. Let us sing for love, for peace It came, a flower bright, for goodwill for all humanity Amid the cold of winter Let’s extend our hands, lift our voices When half-gone was the night until our lives shout out loud — Traditional Joy to the World — Amena Brown & Ann Voskamp Joy to the world, now Love is born… He comes to make these blessings flow… Hallelujah, Amen! He comes to make these blessings flow… Hallelujah, Amen, O rejoice, in songs divine, — Traditional With cherubim and seraphim harmonious join. My Lord, what a mornin’ — from Judas Maccabeus My Lord, what a mornin’ My Lord, what a mornin’ When the stars begin to fall, when the stars begin to fall… When the stars begin to fall (My Lord, what a mornin’….) When the stars begin to fall No more grief and pain for me When You Believe I heard from Heaven today Many nights we prayed Yes, my Lord’s gonna set me free With no proof, anyone could hear I heard from Him today In our hearts a hopeful song

My Lord, what a mornin’… We barely understood When the stars begin to fall. Now we are not afraid — African American Spiritual Although we know there’s much to fear We were moving mountains long Joy to the world, now Love is born…. Before we knew we could, yes Now in this moment it’s time to start over. Open your heart There can be miracles You know there’s nothing to forgive. When you believe Though hope is frail Advent Lament Its hard to kill So listen Who knows what miracles listen You can achieve Let the ear hear the advent laments When you believe, somehow you will of those who can’t breathe for their sadness You will when you believe

The act of hearing destroys all fearing In this time of fear The discipline of listening is the quickening and the signaling of When prayer so often proves in vain the repositioning of the great commissioning of the kingdom to Hope seems like the summer bird Love the marginalized Too swiftly flown away Yet now I’m standing here Let’s do what we hear the angels singing: My hearts so full, I cant explain Glory in the highest runs down to meet the lowest Seeking faith and speaking words Let every heart prepare Him room I never thought I’d say He comes to make his blessings flow 12 13 TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS There can be miracles Bawo, Bawo, Bawo Father, Father, Father When you believe (When you believe) Bawo ndiyabonga Father I thank you Though hope is frail Ngoba wena, usandigcimle For you still protect me Its hard to kill — Traditional prayer sung in Xhosa Who knows what miracles You can achieve (You can achieve) Walk Together Children When you believe, somehow you will Walk together children, You will when you believe Don’t you get weary. Walk on, my children, An’ though they don’t always happen when you ask Don’t you get weary. And its easy to give in, to your fears There’s a great camp meetin’ in the promised land. But when you’re blinded by your pain Can’t see your way clear through the rain Gonna walk an’ never tire, A small but still, resilient voice Gonna sing an’ never tire, Says help is very near Great camp meetin’ in the promised land.

There can be miracles (Miracles) Oh, walk together, children, Don’t you get weary. When you believe (Boy, when you believe, yeah, though hope is frail) Sing on, my children, Don’t you get weary. Though hope is frail (It’s hard) Just-a shout together, children, Don’t you get weary. Its hard to kill (Hard to kill, yeah) There’s a great camp meetin’ in the promised land. Who knows what miracles — Spiritual arr. Moses Hogan You can achieve (You can achieve) When you believe, somehow you will (Somehow, somehow, somehow) +++++++++++++++ Somehow you will (I know, I know, know) III You will when you believe (When you) You will when you Build My House (You will when you believe) Will you build me a house? (Just believe) A house that really will be mine. (Just believe) Then let me give you my design. You will when you believe A simple scheme of ... the house I dream of. — Stephen Schwartz Build my house of wood. Ndikhokhele Bawo Build my house of stone. Ndikhokhele Bawo, Lead me oh Father Build my house of brick and mortar. Ndikhokhele Bawo, zundi kokhele Lead me oh Father Make the ceiling strong. Ndikhokhele mmeli wami, ezintsizini Lead me my Father Strong against the storm. Ezintsizini, zalomhlaba bawo in all the sorrows of this world Shelter when the days grow shorter.

Bawo, Bawo, Bawo Father, But build my house of love. Bawo ndiyabonga Father I thank you And paint my house with trusting. Ngoba wena, usandigcinile For you still protect me And warm it with the warmth of your heart. Noma ungelowe thuze kwami Although you are now with me A noma ungekwe thuze kwami Yes, although you are now near Make a floor of faith. Bawo ndiyabonga Father I thank you Make the walls of truth. Ngoba wena, usandigcinile For you still protect me Put of roof of peace above. Wena, wena noma ungekwe thuze kwami Oh Lord, oh Lord though you are Can you build my house of love. now with me — Leonard Bernstein 14 15 TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS True Love (Love is All We Need) I stopped by the bar at three A.M. Together we’ll make it all the way To seek solace in a bottle, or possibly a friend Different colors but we stand as one And I woke up with a headache like my head against a board It doesn’t matter where you’re from Twice as cloudy as I’d been the night before And where you’re going And I went in seeking clarity Love is all we need I went to the doctor, I went to the mountains So live as one in peace and harmony I looked to the children, I drank from the fountains And make this world a better joyful place We go to the doctor, we go to the mountains It doesn’t matter where you’re from We look to the children, we drink from the fountain And where you’re going Yeah, we go to the Bible, we go through the work out Love is all we need We read up on revival, we stand up for the lookout There’s more than one answer to these questions Love is a journey of challenges Pointing me in a crooked line Whenever it comes (it makes a change) And the less I seek my source for some definitive But is has no boundary, no limit The closer I am to fine It’s a feeling from within The closer I am to fine The closer I am to fine, yeah Together we’ll make it all the way — Emily Saliers Different colors but we stand as one It doesn’t matter where you’re from We look to the children…. And where you’re going Love is all we need Together we’ll make it all the way — African Children’s Choir #42 Different colors but we stand as one It doesn’t matter where you’re from Closer to Fine And where you’re going I’m tryin’ to tell you somethin’ ‘bout my life Love is all we need Maybe give me insight between black and white And the best thing you’ve ever done for me So live as one in peace and harmony Is to help me take my life less seriously And make this world a better joyful place It’s only life after all, yeah It doesn’t matter where you’re from Well darkness has a hunger that’s insatiable And where you’re going And lightness has a call that’s hard to hear Love is all we need I wrap my fear around me like a blanket Unity I sailed my ship of safety ‘til I sank it Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity. I’m crawling on your shores Unity, unity, Lord, we pray for unity.” — Psalm 133:1, Glorainne B. Moone I went to the doctor, I went to the mountains I looked to the children, I drank from the fountains I Need You To Survive There’s more than one answer to these questions I need you Pointing me in a crooked line You need me And the less I seek my source for some definitive We’re all a part of God’s body The closer I am to fine, yeah Stand with me The closer I am to fine, yeah Agree with me We’re all a part of God’s body

16 17 TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS It is his will that every need be supplied He’s got everybody here in his hands You are important to me He’s got everybody here in his hands I need you to survive He’s got everybody here in his hands He’s got the whole world in his hands I pray for you He’s got the whole world in his hands... You pray for me He’s got you and me brother... I love you He’s got the whole world in his hands... I need you to survive — Traditional Spiritual I won’t harm you With words from my mouth Joy to the World I love you Joy to the world the Lord is come I need you to survive Let earth receive her king Let every heart prepare him room It is his will that every need be supplied And heaven, let heaven, heaven and nature You are important to me Heaven and nature sing

I need you to survive Everybody sing joy to the world — David Frazier The Lord is come Let earth (let earth) receive (receive) her king We Can Mend the Sky Let every heart prepare him room In my dream I saw a world free of violence Heaven and nature sing (heaven and nature sing), heaven and nature sing hunger Go tell it, go tell it his glory suffering Shout out the story a world filled with love That the savior is born Now awake in this world Let heaven, heaven, heaven and nature sing I beg, let my dream come true. Naftu orod bay kugu aamintaa. Let fields and flocks (To save your life, run with all your might.) Rocks hills and plains Repeat the sounding joy (repeat the sounding joy) repeat the sounding joy If we come together, we can mend a crack in the sky. Go tell it his glory — Warda Mohamed Shout out the new story (go shout the new story) The savior is born He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands Heaven, heaven, heaven, heaven and nature sing He’s got the whole world in his hands He’s got the whole wide world in his hands Sing joy to the world He’s got the whole wide world in his hands For the savior reigns He’s got the whole world in his hands And makes his blessings flow

He’s got you and me sister in his hands Joyful all ye nations rise He’s got you and me brother in his hands Join the triumph of the skies He’s got you and me sister in his hands With angelic hosts proclaim He’s got the whole world in his hands Glory to the king While the angels sing

18 19 TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS Everybody sing joy to the world Sing, choirs of angels, The Lord is come Sing in exultation, Let earth receive her king Sing all ye citizens of heav’n above; Let every heart prepare him room Glory to God, Go tell it, go tell it his glory All glory in the highest; Shout out a new story (go shout a new story) That the savior is born O come, let us adore Him; Heaven, heaven, heaven and nature sing O come, let us adore Him; O come, let us adore Him; Everybody sing joy Christ the Lord! Sing joy to the world — Traditional All over the world Hark the Herald Angels Sing Sing joy, oh Hark! the herald angels sing, Sing joy, everybody sing “Glory to the new-born King! Joy to the world Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled.” Sing joy to the world Joyful, all ye nations, rise, Joy joy joy sing joy to the world Join the triumph of the skies; Sing joy to the world With th’ angelic host proclaim, Everybody sing joy to the world “Christ is born in Bethlehem.” Sing joy to the world Hark! the herald angels sing, Sing joy to the world “Glory to the new-born King! Sing joy to the world Hail! the heaven-born Sing joy, joy, joy, peace, love, joy Prince of peace! Sing joy to the world Hail! the Son of Righteousness! — Isaac Watts Light and life to all he brings, Risen with healing in his wings +++++++++++++++ Mild he lays his glory by, Born that man no more may die: IV COME LOVE, CAROLING Born to raise the son of earth, Born to give them second birth. AUDIENCE PLEASE STAND AND SING BOLD TEXT: Hark! the herald angels sing, “Glory to the new-born King!” O Come All Ye Faithful — Traditional O come, all ye faithful, Joyful and triumphant, AUDIENCE PLEASE BE SEATED. O come ye, o come ye to Bethlehem; Come and behold Him, La primera Navidad Born the King of Angels! La primera Navidad un coro se oyó, a humildes pastores el cielo cantó, O come, let us adore Him; y un ángel les habló rodeado de luz, O come, let us adore Him; anunciando la Natividad de Jesús. O come, let us adore Him; Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel. Christ the Lord! Hoy ha nacido el Rey de Israel. — Traditional 20 21 TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS Away in a Manger Treats me mean too Away in a manger But that’s how things are down here No crib for His bed We don’t know who you are The little Lord Jesus Lay down His sweet head Sweet little Jesus boy.. The stars in the sky — Robert MacGimsey Look down where He lay The little Lord Jesus Silent night, holy night Asleep on the hay All is calm, all is bright…. The cattle are lowing The poor Baby wakes America the Beautiful But little Lord Jesus Oh, beautiful for spacious skies, No crying He makes For amber waves of grain, I love Thee, Lord Jesus For purple mountain majesties Look down from the sky Above the fruited plain! And stay by my side America! America! ‘Til morning is nigh God shed his grace on thee, — Traditional And crown thy good with brotherhood From sea to shining sea. Your Little Ones Dear Lord are We — Katharine Lee Bates Thy little ones, dear Lord, are we, And come Thy lowly bed to see; Hymn for America Enlighten every soul and mind, We have loved you for your rivers, That we the way to Thee may find. We have loved you for your shores, Every treasure you have shown us, O draw us wholly to Thee, Lord, Every seed that you have sown; Do Thou to us Thy grace accord, We have loved you for your mountains, True faith and love to us impart, For your prairies, for your fields, That we may hold Thee in our heart. All these gifts we have been given, — Hans Adolf Brorson All these glories that we share; Now we thank you for these blessings, Sweet Little Jesus Boy We, your people, everywhere. Sweet little Jesus boy They made you be born in a manger Many are the stars of heaven, Sweet little holy child Many are the hopes of earth; We didn’t know who you were All around us worlds unfolding, Didn’t know you’d come to save us Lord All around these dreams to grow. To take our sins away From the moment of our rising Our eyes were blind, we could not see ‘Till we rest when day is done, We didn’t know who you were May we tell our hearts’ own story, Hearts that honor and believe, Long time ago Through our care for one another, You were born For this life and land we love. Born in a manger Lord — Michael Dennis Browne Sweet little Jesus boy The world treats you mean Lord 22 23 TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS Frosty the Snowman Silent Night Frosty the Snowman Silent night, holy night Was a jolly happy soul All is calm, all is bright With a corncob pipe and a button nose Round yon Virgin, Mother, Mother and Child And his eyes made out of coal Holy infant so tender and mild Sleep in heavenly peace Frosty the Snowman Sleep in heavenly peace Made the children laugh and play — Traditional And were they surprised when Before their eyes V CLOSING He came to life that day There must have been some magic Holy angels, light divine, In that old silk hat they found Shine upon this heart of mine; For when they placed it on his head Chase the shades of night away, He began to dance around Turn this darkness into day. Gloria in excelsis Deo….. Frosty the Snowman Was alive as he could be We are Each Other’s Angels And the children say Well I hope I see you later He could laugh and play ‘Cause it’s time for me to go Just the same as you and me Someone just pulled over — Steve Nelson & Jack Rollins Sure was good to know you Go answer your calling AUDIENCE PLEASE REMAIN SEATED AND SING BOLD TEXT: Go and fill somebody’s cup And if you see an angel falling Angels We Have Heard on High Won’t you stop and help them up Angels we have heard on high ‘Cause we are each other’s angels Sweetly singing o’er the plains And we meet when it is time And the mountains in reply We keep each other going Echoing their joyous strains And we show each other signs

Gloria in excelsis Deo…. Sometimes you will stumble Sometimes you might fall down Shepherds, why this jubilee? Sometimes you will get lonely Why your joyous strains prolong? With all these people around What the gladsome tidings be You might shiver when the wind blows Which inspire your heavenly song? And you might get blown away You might even lose your colors Gloria, in excelsis Deo…. But don’t you ever lose your faith — Traditional We are each other’s angels And we meet when it is time We keep each other going And we show each other signs — Chuck Brodsky & Sara Hickman

24 25 TEXT AND TRANSLATIONS We Clasp the Hands We clasp the hands of those that go before us, and the hands of those who come after us. We enter the little circle of each other’s arms and the larger circle of lovers, whose hands are joined in a dance, and the larger circle of all creatures, who move also in a dance… to a music so subtle and vast that no ear hears it Light Will Someday Split You Open Except in fragments… — Wendell Berry Light will someday split you open Even if your life is now a cage. I Could Have Danced All Night Little by little, You will turn into stars. On Christmas night we hear the angels singing… Little by little, You will turn into I could have danced all night… The whole sweet, amorous Universe. And still have begged for more Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright… Love will surely burst you wide open I could have spread my wings and done a thousand things Into an unfettered, booming new galaxy. I’ve never done before You will become so free Gloria… In a wonderful, secret I’ll never know what made it so exciting And pure Love That flows Why all at once my heart took flight From a conscious, One-pointed, Infinite Light. I only know when he began to dance with me I could have danced, danced, danced Even then, my dear, The Beloved will have fulfilled All night. Just a fraction, Just a fraction! — Alan Jay Lerner Of a promise He wrote upon your heart. For a divine seed, the crown of destiny, ++++++++++++++++++++++ Is hidden and sown on an ancient, fertile plain You hold the title to.

O look again within yourself, For I know you were once the elegant host To all the marvels in creation. When your soul begins To ever bloom and laugh And spin in Eternal Ecstasy- O little by little, You will turn into God. — Hafiz

26 27 THE AFRICAN CHILDREN’S CHOIR NICOLE JOSEPH Described as an artist with a “sweeping range of emotions” and a “honeyed, effortless voice,” Detroit-based soprano Nicole Joseph has delighted audiences in a wide range of performances across the country. Ms. Joseph made her professional debut as Beatrice in Jake Heggie’s Three Decembers with the Kentucky Opera. Receiving critical acclaim, it was said that her “impressive” performance was “the most interesting to watch,” and “full of The African Children’s Choir is composed of African children, aged 7 to 10 power and verve.” years old. The children in the Choir represent the potential of the thousands of children in Africa who are trapped in the cycle of poverty. The children She has brought the same “arresting dramatic presence, angelic sound melt the hearts of audiences with their charming smiles and delightful and soulful expression” to other recent opera credits, including The African tunes. Nearly every performance is concluded with a thunderous Governess (Turn of the Screw), Micaëla (Carmen), Donna Anna (Don standing ovation. A marvelous by-product of the concert is the inspiration Giovanni) and Magda Sorel (The Consul), with Detroit’s Opera MODO, of the music brings to virtually every listener. In spite of the tragedy that has which the latter performance earned her recognition with a nomination marred their young lives, the children are radiant with hope, musically gifted for the 2019 Wilde Award for Best Opera Performance. The 2017-2018 and wonderfully entertaining. season saw Nicole’s Michigan Opera Theatre debut as Hattie in Daniel Over the past 37 years, the children have appeared in thousands of concerts Sonenberg’s The Summer King, and she is also featured with Michigan around the world, including concerts at the Pentagon and the United Opera Theatre’s Community Outreach programs. Nations. They have been featured on popular television shows, including “The Tonight Show” and “American Idol”. The Choir has had the privilege of In demand as a recitalist and soloist, Nicole performs frequently with performing at the Royal Albert Hall, London as part of the BBC Proms series. orchestras and chamber festivals across the United States, including They have performed for the Queen as well as other royalty and world acclaimed appearances in Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 with Portland leaders. They have performed alongside some of the biggest names in the Chamber Orchestra, Barber’s Knoxville: Summer of 1915 with Oakland music industry and even recorded music for Hollywood movie soundtracks. Symphony, and Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 with Flint Symphony. An artist with accomplished versatility, and “a voice sweet as fresh water,” Nicole The African Children’s Choir is more than just a choir. It’s part of a larger, had the honor of performing for the nationally televised Aretha Franklin international, Christian organization called Music for Life, which provides Tribute Concert held at Aretha Franklin Park in Detroit. A versatile thousands of impoverished children throughout Africa with the education, performer, she is also in demand as a choral singer and soloist in many discipleship and leadership skills needed to rise above their conditions highly acclaimed ensembles, including the newly-formed Exigence Vocal so they can bring positive, lasting change to their families, communities, Ensemble, a professional ensemble comprised of Black and Latinx artists and countries. The choir’s graduates have gone on to directly impact their as a part of the Sphinx Organization. And as a member of Conspirare, communities as doctors, social workers, teachers, lawyers, journalists and Nicole has appeared on three albums, Sing Freedom, Sacred Spirit of entrepreneurs, to name a few. Music For Life is incredibly proud of the Russia and Pablo Neruda: The Poet Sings. change and impact the graduates have had on their African communities for the past 37 years.

africanchildrenschoir.com 28 29 SINGERS AND INSTRUMENTALISTS SINGERS AND INSTRUMENTALISTS Soprano Tenor

Anna Christofaro Mela Dailey Melissa Givens Estelí Gomez Matt Alber Cole Blume Carr Hornbuckle Michael Jones (Minneapolis, MN) (Austin, TX) (Claremont, CA) (Appleton, WI) (Portland, OR) (Salem, OR) (San Antonio, TX) (Peoria, IL)

Julie Keim Gitanjali Mathur Kathlene Ritch* David Kurtenbach Jason Vest* (Washinton, DC) (Austin, TX) (Santa Fe, NM) (San Francisco, CA) (Cincinnati, OH)

Alto Bass

Lara Alami Ana Baida Stella Hastings Lauren McAllister Drayton Eggleson Rick Gabrillo* Robert Harlan Tim O’Brien (Bloomfield Hills, MI) (Atlanta, GA) (Pittsburg, KS) (Cincinnati, OH) (Sycamore, IL) (Round Rock, TX) (Austin, TX) (Austin, TX)

Laura Elizabeth Pétillot John Proft Sean Taylor Mercado-Wright * (Bordeaux, France) (Austin, TX) (Brownsville, TX) (Austin, TX) Instrumentalists

*denotes Section Leader

Thomas Burritt Mitch Watkins Percussion Guitar 30 (Leander, TX) (Austin, TX) 31 CRAIG HELLA JOHNSON ABOUT CONSPIRARE Craig Hella Johnson is Conspirare is a professional the Founding Artistic choral organization under Director and Conductor the leadership of Craig of Conspirare and Music Hella Johnson. Inspired Director of Cincinnati’s by the power of music to Vocal Arts Ensemble. change lives, this ensemble Known for crafting engages singers from thought-provoking musical around the world who join journeys that create deep voices to deliver world-class, connections between extraordinary live musical performers and listeners, experiences and recordings. Johnson is in frequent Their discography includes 13 commercial albums and 19 self-produced demand as a guest live albums. Conspirare was awarded the 2019 Texas Medal of Arts. Johnson and Conspirare were awarded a 2014 Grammy® for Best Choral conductor of choral and Performance for The Sacred Spirit of Russia album and their recordings orchestral works have been nominated eight other times. Conspirare’s most recent recording, The Hope of Loving, features works of Jake Runestad and Johnson joined the faculty at Texas State as Artist in Residence in fall received a 2020 Grammy nomination for Best Choral Performance. 2016. He is a published composer and arranger, guest conductor and Based in Austin, Texas, they perform an annual concert series and tour in educator. Johnson’s first concert-length compositionConsidering the United States and abroad. Conspirare has performed throughout the Matthew Shepard was premiered and recorded by Conspirare for a U.S., including appearances as a featured choir at the American Choral 2016 CD release. Directors Association annual conference and regional ACDA conventions. At home, Conspirare performs a full annual season in Austin and Central Johnson’s accomplishments have been recognized with numerous Texas where it has received ongoing recognition from local organizations awards and honors. Notably among them, he and Conspirare won a 2014 and critics. Artistic Director Craig Hella Johnson was named Texas State Grammy® for Best Choral Performance, Chorus America awarded him Musician. The group is also committed to outreach programs which the Michael Korn Founders Award for Development of the Professional includes free community Big Sings and performances at Travis County Choral Art in 2015, and the Texas State Legislature named him Texas Correctional Facility. In 2013, Conspirare became a Resident Company State Musician for 2013. of Austin’s Long Center for the Performing Arts. Conspirare is known for the flagship vocal ensemble, Company of Voices. The organization also craighellajohnson.com includes the Conspirare Symphonic Choir (a large auditioned ensemble that performs works for chorus, often with instrumental ensemble), and Conspirare Youth Choirs, an educational program made up of three choirs (Prelude, Kantorei, and Allegro) under the direction of Nina Revering.

conspirare.org 512.476.5775

32 33 BOARD AND STAFF Season Sustaining Underwriter Board of Directors Artistic & Administrative Staff Nancy Lesch, Chair Craig Hella Johnson Robert Harlan, Vice Chair Artistic Director William G. Fivecoat, Treasurer Ann McNair William C. Bednar, Secretary 2019/20 Corporate Sponsors Managing Director Ken Beck Mark W. Bierner Penny Brandt Marvin J. Brittman Grants Manager Carl Caricari Mary Anne Connolly Scott Dinger Susanna Finnell Development Manager Sandy Fivecoat Sustainers & Major Donors Rick Gabrillo Elliott Forrest Associate Conductor Marcus Cruz Sanchez LEGACY Joni Wallace Robert Harlan OF SOUND 2 Technical Director & Stage Manager Advisory Board Foundation Supporters Stephen Aechternacht Sam Henderson Ann & Gordon Getty Foundation Bloomberg Philanthropies John Aielli Conspirare Concierge Eva & Marvin Womack Foundation James K. Ferguson Foundation Sue Barnes Kodosky Foundation Rachael & Ben Vaughan Foundation Meri Krueger Ray Brimble Artist Relations Red Bird Foundation Russell Hill Rogers Fund for the Arts David Claflin Still Water Foundation Tom Driscoll Karen Langley Virginia Dupuy Director of Development Hella Circle Restaurant Partners Maydelle Fason Hospitality Sponsor JoLynn Free Jaime Leighton Billy Gammon Production Administrator Vance George Kathy Leighton Public Agency Sponsors Helen Hays House Manager Dan Herd William B. Hilgers Jane Ramirez Wayne Holtzman Business Manager This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department. Judith Jellison Bob Murphy Nina Revering Media Sponsor Lynn Murphy Conspirare Youth Choirs Director Cliff Redd Christy Strange Gayle Glass Roche In-Kind Sponsors Marketing Manager Nancy Scanlan Angela Smith Kendall Walshak Bernadette Tasher Production Assistant & Louann Temple Interim CYC Manager Outreach Partners Eva Womack Midge Woolsey Cameron Massey Production Intern 35 DONORS Craig Hella Johnson & Phil Mary Gifford* Your Generosity Brings Our Song to Life. Overbaugh*+ Kim & Steve Gilbert Mary Kevorkian & Tom Holzbach*+ Glenda Goehrs*+ 2019/20 ANNUAL CAMPAIGN DONORS—Conspirare donors support the annual Kathleen Kinney*+ Helen & Bob Hays*+ budget of the organization with a yearly gift. Angie & Steve Larned*+ Margaret Henderson We are deeply grateful to every individual, foundation, business, and government Kathy & Henry Leighton* George Henry agency for your investments in Conspirare’s mission to change lives through the power Joyce Mayer Garrett Higley+ of music. This list represents cash and in-kind gifts made from July 1, 2018 through Janet McCullar*+ Jeanne & Van Hoisington+ September 15, 2019. Becky & Ted Mercado*+ Kelli & Van Jr. Hoisington The Cynthia and George Mitchell Linda & Ken Holmen*+ * Denotes Hella Circle Member Foundation Melissa & Andy Hopwood + Denotes Considering Matthew Shepard donor Suzanne Mitchell & Richard Zansitis*+ Carr Hornbuckle & Jack Leifer+ # Denotes Legacy of Sound 2 donor Judy Morris Pam & Rick Huffman* Margaret Murray-Miller & Carl David Hunt+ $50,000 + $9,999-$5,000 Caricari*+ Guiberteau & D Jackson Anonymous+ Anonymous+# Judy & Douglas Rhodes Marjorie Johnson* Bloomberg Philanthropies Elizabeth Armstrong+ Linda & Nick van Bavel* Karen Kibler & Tom Grimes CAPTRUST | STMM Nancy & Randy Baden*+ Julia & Patrick Willis*+ KMFA City of Austin – Cultural Arts Division Joyce & Ken Beck*+ Dan Kraus Lynne Dobson & Greg Wooldridge*# Bill Bednar*+# $2,499-$1,000 Dina Kuntz+ Tina & Dale Knobel*+ Mark Bierner*+# Anonymous (2) Jodi Lazar Still Water Foundation # Paula D’Arcy, Red Bird Foundation+ Anonymous+ Eric Leibrock*+ Beverly Dale+ Anonymous*+ Gomer Lesch+ $49,999-$20,000 Mary & Phil Delk+ Anonymous*+# Marcia & Bruce Levy Marvin Brittman*+# James K. Ferguson Foundation, Jim James Arth*+ LiveOak Venture Partners Fran & Larry Collmann*+# Ferguson & Art Sansone+ Joy Authur Sheila Lummis* Danna & Crutch Crutchfield*+ Sandy & Bill Fivecoat*+# Wayne Baker* Marcia Manhart Lara & Robert Harlan*+ Gusto Italian Kitchen, Cameron Lockley Ginger & Michael Blair*+# Leigh McAlister+ H-E-B Tournament of Champions Hoisington Investment Management Co. Vera Bowen+ Suzanne McAllister*+ Richard Hartgrove & Gary Cooper*+# Merick Strategies, Mela Sarajane Dailey Cynthia Brinson Amy McCaffrey+ Wendi & Brian Kushner*+# Trish & Robert Karli*+# Leslie Brown+ Ann McNair* Gayle & Mike Roche*+ Nancy Lesch & Janet Bezner*+ Greg Bryant*+ Milton Miller Eva & Marvin Womack*+# Susan & Craig Lubin*+ Denise & Timothy Burke+ Elizabeth & Jerele Neeld*+ Dee Anne & Steven Paulson*+ Sarah & Ernest Butler Suzi & Douglas Nelson+ $19,999-$10,000 Quartz Financial Richard Campbell* Nona Niland* Ann & Gordon Getty Foundation Nancy Quinn & Thomas Driscoll+ Annette Carlozzi & Dan Bullock Cynthia & Lip Norvell Casey Blass & Lee Manford*+# Nancy Scanlan*+ Christine & J. Dennis Cavner+ Linda & Paul Parrish*+ Dixie Camp Johanna & Mitch Vernick*+ Alice & Gary Childress Sonny Payne Eric Copper+ Joni Wallace*+ Fleur Christensen Stu Phillips*+ Eclectic Philanthropic Fund of the Southwest Patricia & Chris Yost*+ Janice & Rowland Curry* Rebecca & Phil Powers Community Foundation Margaret & Marc Curtis*+ Lynn & Dick Rew Carol & Chris Elms*+ $4,999-$2,500 Susan Duncan Karin Richmond*+ Susanna & Richard Finnell*+# Randy Adair Gregory Cash Durham & Bob Guter- Teresa Ringness* Keating Family Foundation Anonymous* muth* David Rockwood The Kodosky Foundation, Gail & Jeff Karen & Ray Brimble+ Kerry Edwards Duane Roth* Kodosky*+# Brad Buchholz Sylvia Fatzer Deborah & Ed Rupp*+ National Endowment for the Arts+ Janis & David Claflin*+ Susan Feagin Senaida San Miguel+ Per Stirling Group, Monica & JP O’Sullivan Catherine Clark+ Susan Nash Fekety Norm Schumaker* Corey Proffitt, Toyota Motor N.A.+ Mary Anne Connolly*+ Ann B. Fields+ Barbara Schutz+ Susan & Jack Robertson*+# Joanne & John Earls, The John C. Khris Ford+ Marilyn Sharratt+ DeDe Rogers+ Griswold Family Foundation+ Susan & John Fox David Smith+ Russell Hill Rogers Fund for the Arts Cynthia Gonzales & Bill Guajardo*+ Jolynn & Gregory Free*+ Paula & Ken Smith Shield-Ayres Foundation Carol & Bob Hayden* Mary Nell Frucella*+ Liz Stewart Texas Commission on the Arts Sherry & Gary Jacobson*+ Evelyn & Rick Gabrillo James Stolpa Rachael & Ben F. Vaughan Foundation Ronald Jernigan+ Dee Garcia+ Cason Swindle*

36 37 Bernadette Tasher*+ Megan & Michael Helmbrecht* Faith & Don Trapp*+ Connie LeBeau John C. R. Taylor & Peter Flagg Max- Jay Henry & Marc Coté* Anne & Tony Vance* Kevin Lemoine+ son James Hornbuckle+ Nancy Whitworth Carey S. Leva Susanne Tetzlaff & Eric Tiblier Peggy Howard & Bill Wood* Barbara Williamson Michelle Lingo Susan & John Tew+ Joan & Paul Hudson* Karla & James Wintle Karoline & Daniel Liu Sandra & Bob Tomlinson*+ Judith Jellison & Robert Duke Tim Young+ Alaire & Tom Lowry+ Dale & Roy Truitt* Karen & Donald Kirmis+ Dax McCracken Anne & William Wagner+ Lynn Knaupp & John Griffin+ $499-$250 Adrienne McCullough Mary Walker Claire Korioth Albertsons Safeway Mary Jane McReynolds+ Jessica Weaver Lou Ann & Bill Lasher+ Amazon Smile Campaign Jeanie Miley+ Francine Webb Kati Lewis+ Frances Anderson Glenn Miller+ Amy & Philip Welsh+ Cindy Libera+ Anonymous Janet Miller+ Kathleen Wicoff*+ Emily Little*+ Anton Armstrong Phyllis Miller Kathleen Lowry Robbie & Tom Ausley Fran & Steven Moss $999-$500 Mary G. Lund+ Steve Baker Monty Northrup Chris & Ronald Askew Aaron Malakoff Steven Beebe+ Barbara Jean Olson Margaret & Robert Ayres Joey Martin+ Bridgette Beinecke+ Gretchen Olson Kopp+ Barbara & Kevin Barry+ Sue & Phil Maxwell Ingrid & Nathan Bick Jean Permann Molly Bean Ruth McGregor+ Clint Bledsoe* Donna & Paul Povse Becky Beaver Debe & Kevin McKeand Dianne & Douglas Brehmer Bailey+ Katy & Buzz Pruitt* Margaret & Robert Berdahl Lisa McLean & Michael Dennis Browne+ Kay Brumley Steve Pyhrr Victoria & Robert Bergin Vance McMahan+ Linda Buehlmann Erma & Chris Richter+ George Brennan Henry Meadows Anne Byars Kathlene Ritch & Scott Noakes*+ Linda & George Brown*+ Susan & John Meurling+ Janet Campbell Michal Rosenberger* Kyle & Amy Bryson Barbara Miller+ Paul Carapetyan+ Mary & Jo-Michael Scheibe Shirley Burger Janice Morris Doug Carroll Sally Schott Carla & Stephanie Burzyk-Smith Howard Morrison Karen & Clay Cary Sara Sharp Judy & John Bush+ Chandra Muller Thomas Christie+ Peter Shestok Viera Buzgova Lynn & Bob Murphy+ Bob Clagett* Carole & Charles Sikes James Campbell William Nemir+ Marv Clott Derald Skeen Patrick Cantilo+ Eric Neuville Janie Cook+ Marga Speicher+ Jane & Phil Capron Marcia Noebels+ Lisa & Eric Craven Marion Lear Swaybill+ Patricia Cherico*+ Kathie & Peter Nycklemoe Nancy Crichlow+ Kerry Tate+ Cicada Lighting Tamra-Shae Oatman Marianne DeLeon* Linda & John Thomas Owen Connelly Pelton Charitable Foundation, Inc. Sandra Derby+ Franklin Tinney+ Katelena & James Cowles Carol Ann Pevehouse* Nin & Jeffrey Di Leo+ Michael Twomey Cory Cox+ Jan & Joseph Pickle Sharon Duboise Lauren Vick* Marie Crane Andrea Pobanz*+ Pam Edgerly Julie Ward* Cina Crisara Lynn & Brian Powell Randi Eisner & William Schwartz Lynn Whitten & Jim Butler Paula & Stuart D’Amore Jane Ramirez* Kemper Florin Shari Wilson+ Michael DiLeo Flo Ann Randle+ Elliott Forrest+ Kira Winter* Melissa Eddy & Tracy Schiemenz*+ Louis Renaud Jody Gillit Patricia & Curtis Wyman Constance & Rex Esau* David Renner+ Kendal & Ken Gladish+ Ted Yanecek Patricia & Fred Florence Kimberly & Dan Renner+ Melissa Gray+ Joyce Zehr+ Melinda & Robert Floyd Jennifer & Mark Roe Karen Hale & Al Lindsey Constance & Thomas Foster Leilani Rose+ Glenn Haluska Conspirare is grateful for all donors Steven Fox Michelle Schumann & Matt Orem* Christy Henry who contributed gifts under $250 and Helen Fraser April Schweighart HQ 83 regrets that space does not permit the Cheryl Fuller* Gabrielle Sigel Diane Humes & Allan Treiman+ listing of each name. Your support is Regan & Billy Gammon Bea Ann Smith+ Carolyn Hynson very much appreciated. We strive to Deena Graham+ Carol Smith & Barbara Corbin+ Cecile Johnson+ publish an accurate donor list. If an William Halverson+ Jare & Jim Smith* Janie Keys & Ivan Milman error or omission is noted, please let Danny Hamilton & Paul Hilliard+ Katy & Chris Steiner* Ervin Knezek+ us know by calling Sam Henderson at Martha & David Harrington* Les Sunada Hillary Larson+ 512.476.5775. Karen & Leroy Haverlah+ Meredith Thomas+ Ann & Steve Laubach

38 39 DONOR SPOTLIGHT AMBASSADORS Per Stirling Group is an Austin-based Julie Adams Conspirare offers opportunities to join its musical circle through wealth management firm that places the Linda Cameron gifts of time, energy, and talent. Ambassadors serve as ticket takers, ushers, and CD sellers. Office volunteers work at Conspirare best interests of its clients above all else. Mary Cook Vickie Dunlevy headquarters on special projects and hosting volunteers house out-of-town artists during concerts. We are dedicated to making They pride themselves with their acumen Kathryn Ehlert and absolute professionalism of every volunteering a fun opportunity to experience the joy of Conspirare. Michele Fisher For more information, please contact House Manager Kathy advisor and staff member. Stephanie Foster Leighton at [email protected]. Leslie Friedlander Mary Gifford PRODUCTION CREW The firm is perhaps best known for its Jennifer Braham, Program Designer Cyndi Griesser award-winning ethics and expertise. This includes, most recently, being Viera Buzgova, Stage Manager Rod Howard named by the Financial Times as one of only fifteen Texas-based firms Robert Harlan, Production Designer Virginia Hyde Will Pearson, Assistant Stage Manager selected for the prestigious FT 300 list of the top wealth management Jimmie Johnson Olden Lighting firms in America. Henry Leighton Sarah Williams Beverly McCune Jacqueline Sindelar Ken Reed Ian Lopez Meneses Per Stirling features a team of financial advisors, financial planners and Long Center Crew Pat Reed financial consultants that is one of the most expert and credentialed Stinson Studios in the industry. The team includes Certified Financial Planners, CPAs, Kathleen Taylor Tobin Center Crew Greg Thompson and Chartered Financial Consultants, in addition to Chartered Financial Veryan Thompson FRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS Analyst, Accredited Estate Planner, J.D., Certified Divorce Financial Colleen Tulloh Cynthia Gonzales Live Oak Gottesman, Sari Zuhn & Courtney Dunlap Analyst, Chartered Life Underwriter and Chartered Retirement Plans Aimee Ronn McCarthy Print Specialist designations. Carol Walker Phillip Overbaugh Kathleen Wicoff Redeemer Lutheran Church: James Lavender, “Ultimately, Per Stirling is all about improving the quality of life for each Sherry Markert & Jennifer Moreland Vickery Wholesale Greenhouse, Inc. of our clients,” noted John O’Sullivan, Per Stirling’s Managing Director. St. John’s United Methodist Church, Louise Avant “That is, on many levels, what I love about Conspirare. With each and every performance, Conspirare is improving the quality of life for FEATURED AMBASSADOR everyone the performance touches, and that is something we are happy Henry Leighton to support.” I vividly recall the first time I experienced the wonder of a concert that combined all of the Conspirare ensembles! In 2009, Kathy and I bought tickets to, a completely unknown to us, choir perform “Rock My Soul” at the Long Center. From the first note, Kathy — typically free with live commentary — was disturbingly quiet and completely transfixed by the performance. As the applause faded she promised, “I will sing with that choir one day!” As I was reliving in my head the magic I had just witnessed, I was thinking that’s a pretty bold promise. That promise turned into an audition (where she told Craig “I will accompany myself, thank you”) followed by her falling completely in love with the entire organization; PERFORMING NOTE Conspirare has the privilege of performing in a first as a volunteer, followed by being the Front House Manager (singing in the variety of beautiful venues that best enhance choral performances. While choir all the while), and ultimately followed by ME becoming Mrs. Leighton’s our performing venues and the text of some of our repertoire may be designated volunteer. The rest has been history! Five years of “front door duty” later (and being one of Robert Harlan’s fill in roadies), I am still as excited representative of specific traditions, it is in no way intended to exclude any every concert over Conspirare’s magical talent. Currently, as president of CAS individual whose experience or set of beliefs is not represented. Conspirare Consulting Services, I have been traveling more for work, but my company and respects and celebrates the great diversity of religious, artistic and human clients have come to understand that projects and itineraries all need to indulge experiences represented among our singers and audience members. The my habit! Our daughter, Jaime Leighton, is now the Conspirare Production audience creates the space in which the music is held. Administrator and Webmaster, so the Leighton family has truly become part of the Conspirare Family…and we would have it no other way! 40 41 We’re Saving A Chair For You!

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May the gift of love, peace and song, be yours this holiday season.

—CONSPIRARE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Proud to support nonprofit organizations like Conspirare who inspire families through music and provide educational outreach opportunities for youth across the state.

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Vanguard II February 20, St. Martin’s Lutheran Church, 7:30pm A concert featuring works for voices and instruments by today’s boldest composers.

Contemporary & Classic February 23, St. Martin’s Lutheran Church, 4pm Experience extraordinary vocal artistry in a concert showcasing works for double choir.

Earth Ritual April 25, St. Martin’s Lutheran Church, 8pm April 26, St. Martin’s Lutheran Church, 4pm Celebrate Earth Day with Robert Kyr’s new environmental oratorio for 16 singers and instruments. WORLD PREMIERE!

Celebrate Conspirare Youth Choirs’ 15th season! • LOCAL Reveal May 1 & 2, Austin Central Library • DEDICATED • HUGE INVENTORY BIG Holiday December 17, Austin Central Library, 6pm Singing Planet Date/location coming soon • TRUSTED EXPERIENCE SING Our commitment to service Conspirare Symphonic Choir performs Beethoven 250 with the and quality mean value to you. Austin Symphony, May 15 & 16 at the Long Center. Details online

TICKETS ON SALE NOW conspirare.org or AUSTIN | 512-491-7368 512.474.5664 If it’s important to Austin, it’s in the Chronicle. austinchronicle.com Choral Department

Texas State University Master of Music Choral Conducting Choral Conducting Symposium

Craig Hella Johnson Artist in Residence

Highly competitive scholarships featuring the Texas and assistantships State choral faculty Podium time with all four including Craig large ensembles Hella Johnson Two candidates accepted each year Joey M. Martin Jonathan Babcock Option for summers only Lynn Brinckmeyer (limited enrollment) Craig Aamot Auditions held: February 3, 2020 Please join Conspirare and Craig Hella Johnson for Summer 2021 Joey M. Martin Texas State University Director of Choral Activities SIN Performing Arts Center IG G Jonathan Babcock B Assoc. Director of Choral Activities Lynn Brinckmeyer H Director of Choral Music Education Y O A Craig Aamot L I D Lecturer of Choral Music

Where the audience is the choir. Free! Application deadline sponsored by the Rachael & Ben Vaughan Foundation January 15, 2020

For more information and to register, visit choirs.music.txstate.edu

Texas State University, to the extent not in conflict with federal or state law, prohibits discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability, veterans’ status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression. If you require accommodations due to a disability in order to participate, please contact 512.245.3830 at least 72 hours in advance of the event. Texas State University is a tobacco-free campus. 20-189 10‐19