The Marquette Choral Society is welcoming the season of renewal with a concert that blends joy, challenge, and reflection. "Rejoice! Celebrating Spring" takes place Saturday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 27 at 3:00 p.m., both in Reynolds Recital Hall on the campus of Northern Michigan University. The program features music by Benjamin Britten, Randall Thompson, and John Rutter—three composers whose works reflect the richness of the human voice and the spirit of the season.
Dr. Erin Colwitz, conductor and music director of the Marquette Choral Society, shared insights about the upcoming performance and the evolving legacy of the ensemble.
“I’ve wanted to program Britten’s "Rejoice in the Lamb" for years,” said Colwitz. “It’s one of his most well-known choral works and a brilliant piece—challenging, but rewarding. It also allows us to feature Jan Brodersen on organ, who is just a phenomenal keyboardist.”
The program continues with Randall Thompson’s complete "Frostiana," a musical setting of Robert Frost’s poetry. “It’s rare to hear the full set performed, and I really believe in honoring the composer’s vision by presenting all seven movements together,” Colwitz noted. “These are images and texts that feel close to home, especially for those of us living in the Upper Peninsula.”
Rounding out the concert is John Rutter’s "The Sprig of Thyme," a collection of British folk songs arranged with signature charm and lyricism. “The music is accessible, beautiful, and just perfect for spring,” said Colwitz.
While the repertoire brings together a wide range of styles and moods, one constant is the dedication of the singers. With 140 members this season—a record number for the ensemble—Colwitz is both proud and reflective. “This is my tenth year with the Choral Society and at NMU,” she said. “We’ve hit our stride. The community, university support, and passion of the singers all fuel what we do.”
Colwitz says the chorus is rising to the musical challenges. “Britten's writing can be rhythmically tricky, but the singers are pushing themselves. I get to be a teacher in those moments—and that’s the most rewarding part.”
Listen to Kurt Hauswirth's interview with Dr. Colwitz:
Looking ahead, the Choral Society is already preparing for an extraordinary opportunity: a performance at Carnegie Hall in April 2026. Colwitz has been invited to guest conduct a program that includes Mozart’s "Coronation Mass," and former and current Choral Society members are invited to participate.
For those interested in joining the Choral Society, information can be found on their website or on their active Facebook page.
And for those looking to celebrate spring through music, "Rejoice!" offers more than just a concert. “This music brings people together,” said Colwitz. “It reminds us of beauty, of renewal, of joy—and of why we sing.”
