The Azusa Pacific Chamber Singers performed to an overpacked house of more than 250 people in Munson Chapel Saturday, Nov. 15 at 8 p.m. The group performed more than 10 songs that ranged from contemporary music to an Italian composition dating from the 1500s.
The concert began with Wolfram Buchenberg’s “Vier Geistliche Gesange” and ended with a contemporary song called “Evolution of Music” arranged by Penatonix, which included beatboxing from senior commercial music major Steven Schmidt, section leader and four-year member of Chamber Singers.
“I have had the opportunity to beatbox for Chamber Singers ever since my freshman year and in many different performance settings,” Schmidt said. “I’ve learned, as a member, never to feel uncomfortable performing anything with that ensemble. Out-of-the-box is something we seek out. Important music, unique music, music that teaches us new lessons and takes us to new places emotionally and spiritually – that’s what we’re all about. … ‘Evolution’ simply allowed us to explore music that millions of people have adored over the past century and to have fun just like we always do.”
Senior international business major Micah Kwok, assistant bass section leader, said the audience loved one particular song rendition, but he enjoyed singing other tunes as well.
“I think the audience loved ‘Evolution of Music,’ and there is no doubt I enjoyed it too. However, as a performer, I think there was something special singing ‘Give Me Jesus,'” Kwok said. “Of all the songs, I felt like that one in particular was a worshipful moment. Amidst all the intricate and complex harmonies in the other songs, I found that the simple, familiar lines of ‘Give Me Jesus’ spoke life into me that was timely and refreshing.”
Kwok said this was one of the most “well-executed” performances of which he had ever been a part.
“There are always going to be challenges with forming an excellent group, and I think this concert showed how we, as an ensemble, rose to the occasion and delivered upon that challenge,” Kwok said.
Chamber Singers’ next performance will be Saturday, Jan. 31 at 7:30 p.m. in Wilden Atrium, debuting the annual Winter Concert. This showcase will feature music from England and her former colonies.