SALT LAKE CHORAL ARTISTS, Ernest Bloch’s Avodath Hakodesh (Sacred Service), Libby Gardner Concert Hall, University of Utah, April 28; second performance 8 p.m. April 29, Cathedral of the Madeleine, free
The Salt Lake Choral Artists are one of the few performing arts organizations in Utah that understands the concept of innovative programming. Music director Brady Allred consistently chooses works from a wide ranging repertoire, and consequently the programs the ensemble performs are interesting and frequently thought provoking.
They close out their season this weekend with a long forgotten gem of the choral repertoire: Ernest Bloch’s magnificent Avodath Hakodesh (Sacred Service), a work that hasn’t been performed locally since Maurice Abravanel and the Utah Symphony played it in 1977. Why it’s taken so long for anyone to bring it back is a mystery. It’s a wonderful piece for chorus, orchestra and baritone solo that is spiritual, frequently deeply moving and with a universal message promoting peace and understanding.
Ernest Bloch
Avodath Hakodesh is an attempt by Bloch to reconnect with his Jewish faith. Born into a Jewish family, the Swiss-American composer wasn’t a devoted follower of his religion, and this work was intended to large extent to make amends.
Bloch took passages from the Union Prayer Book, translated them into Hebrew and set them to music that invokes the spirit and feeling of the traditional Jewish liturgy. It’s a masterful work that transcends Judaism and speaks to everyone.
The Choral Artists gave an eloquent and passionate account, singing with feeling and rich expressiveness. Allred coaxed a warm, full sound from his large choir that underscored the broad palette of emotions coursing through the work – from hushed awe to joyful triumph.
Local favorite Tyler Oliphant was the baritone solo. His expressive and lyrical voice conveyed the meaning of the words with powerful impact. He did his large part justice with his decisive delivery.
The orchestra was made up of local freelancers and they played wonderfully. Allred got them to play with shimmering beauty, depth and subtle expressiveness.
The performance will be repeated today at 8 p.m. in the Cathedral of the Madeleine as part of the Madeleine Festival.