April 27, 2005 – Sylvia Bierschenk

SFA to present Brahms' 'Requiem'

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - The Stephen F. Austin State University College of Fine Arts and Department of Music will present "Ein Deutsches Requiem" by Johannes Brahms as the Spring Choral Masterwork Concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 6, in W. M. Turner Auditorium.

Dr. Tim King, SFA's director of choral activities, will direct SFA's combined choirs and Masterworks Orchestra. Soloists will be members of the SFA vocal faculty, Debbie Berry, soprano, and Scott LaGraff, baritone.

"'The Brahms Requiem,' as it is affectionately called, has stood as a cornerstone in the vocal/orchestral repertoire. Its ability to withstand the 'test of time' is a tribute to Brahms' creative genius and the humanist statement of the work," said King.

The work is a "requiem for the living," according to King, offering consolation for the living through the promise of the resurrection.

LaGraff said he is thrilled have the chance to sing the baritone solo.

"I've sung the work twice as a member of the chorus and have always been moved by its power and beauty," LaGraff continued.

The concert will open with the Masterworks Orchestra performing Brahms' "Tragic Overture" under the direction of Dr. Jeff Jacobsen, SFA director of orchestral studies.

The concert is a joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts and the Department of Music. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for students.

For tickets or more information, please visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or 888-240-ARTS.