Fresh off their Italian debut, the Martha’s Vineyard Minnesingers are back and excited to perform for their “favorite audience” director Janis Wightman said.
The group will perform their spring concert, Reach for the Stars, this weekend on Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. at the MVRHS Performing Arts Center.
The group’s European tour gave them a lot of practice. Over April break, the Minnesingers performed concerts in Milan, Verona, Vicenza and Venice. No venue was too big or too small. They peformed during mass at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Venice, and in numerous plazas, street corners and restaurants.
“They sang all over the place,” Ms. Wightman said.
In twice-weekly rehearsals since January, the group prepared religious choral music for the trip to Italy, and they will perform these pieces at their upcoming concert. In addition, this weekend’s program features jazz, show tunes and popular music. Selections include “Oh, Rock My Soul” “I Can Do Better Than That” and “Make a Change.” Some of the numbers incorporate original choreography by Ken Romero.
After back-to-back teaser performances at the high school on Tuesday, Ms. Wightman promised “lights, images, costumes and lots more to come” for the real deal this weekend.
In the spirit of reaching for the stars, the group selected “music that inspired and empowered.” Anyone auditioning for each of the 11 solos had to justify how their song choices fit with the theme. On Tuesday, as audience members clapped along to a heartfelt group rendition of “Born This Way,” it was obvious that the Minnesingers had achieved their goal.
Tickets are $10 for students and seniors and $12 for general admission.
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