As the culmination of its successful 13th season, the Norman Philharmonic brought together nearly 200 local voices to bring Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 to life.
The new Philharmonic Chorus, which involved high school choir members, collegiate choir members and others from the local choir community, came together to present this beloved piece in a way that audience members later described as “magnificent,” “stunning” and “triumphant.”
“Our Norman Philharmonic Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 concert was a success because teachers from area high schools, directors of church choirs and community choral ensembles, and choirs from area universities decided to get their singers involved to present one of the great masterworks of choral symphonic repertoire,” explains Richard Zielinski, music and artistic director of the Norman Philharmonic.
“We ended up with a chorus of 182 singers performing for a full house of audience members. It was an afternoon we will never forget.”
This latest effort aligns with the Norman Philharmonic’s mission to provide meaningful musical experiences, and to establish and maintain ongoing connections in the community. The Norman Philharmonic has performed live music for the community ranging from classical to contemporary for more than a decade, and is passionate about finding ways to expand and strengthen its musical outreach.
“Currently, there is not a large symphonic chorus in Norman,” Zielinski continues. “With a 200-voice Philharmonic chorus, the Norman Philharmonic can expand the variety of music we present, which will help bring people of all walks of life together through the power of music.”
The Norman Philharmonic focuses on spotlighting different styles of music to engage as wide an audience as possible. The Philharmonic Chorus supports this mission and opens opportunities to engage a wider variety of people to bring larger orchestral works to life. No auditions are required for participation—simply a love of singing and the desire to help bring unforgettable musical experiences to the community.
“A large symphonic chorus can unite a community in a way that is a very positive experience, not only for the participants in the chorus, but also for the people who attend the concerts,” he says.
“It is a great way to build community by bringing people together from all walks of life, different ages and backgrounds,” he adds. “Music doesn’t see age, race or political affiliation. Performing symphonic choral masterworks can be a life-changing experience. Music has the power to unite a community.”
Lynne Herbel, choir director at Moore High School, brought members of her choir to participate in the concert. She says the opportunity allowed her students to learn about Beethoven and the history behind Symphony No. 9 in a way that they would not have otherwise experienced.
“I think the most meaningful part of the experience is the residual effect,” she says. “Students will mention how often they hear the Ode to Joy theme, or how they loved experiencing the live orchestra. Moore Public Schools does not have an orchestra program, so this was an incredible opportunity for my students.”
Alan Moring, a professor in the Christopher C. Gibbs College of Architecture at the University of Oklahoma, joined the Philharmonic Chorus and appreciated the sense of community that the experience created.
“There’s a lot going on in the world today that can bring a person down. Singing together lifts our spirits. The focus of the musical selections is usually on love and harmony and peace. Norman is a better place to live because of the Norman Philharmonic. I am really looking forward to next time we sing,” he reflects.
In February, the Norman Philharmonic will collaborate with the Norman Public Schools to present a celebration for Black History Month. Scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, the organization will present Messages of Hope, Determination and Unity at the Center for Arts & Learning, 3801 Journey Parkway. The concert will feature select high school students performing side-by-side with Norman Philharmonic musicians, a 200-voice choir and an art exhibition.
The Philharmonic Chorus will again join the Norman Philharmonic in presenting Mozart’s masterwork Requiem in D Minor at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, at McFarlin Memorial United Methodist Church, 419 S. University Blvd.).
“We are in our 14th season because of the unwavering support from individuals and businesses in the Norman community, along with organizations such as the Norman Arts Council, Oklahoma Arts Council, Allied Arts, the Harris Foundation, Chickasaw Nation and Kirkpatrick Foundation, among others,” says Cathy Griffin, executive director of the Norman Philharmonic.
“We are excited about our upcoming season, and hope you will join us for a performance.”
Details about the Norman Philharmonic’s 14th season, including information on joining the Norman Philharmonic Chorus, is available at NormanPHIL.com. Follow the Norman Philharmonic on social media at @NormanPhilharmonic.
"Music doesn’t see age, race or political affiliation. Performing symphonic choral masterworks can be a life-changing experience."