Choral Arts Society Concert Features New ‘Bedford’ Composition

The Racine Choral Arts Society concert Friday, May 16, at 7 p.m. in the Frances Bedford Concert Hall features a new composition by Karel Suchy, "Bedford Sonus I" written specifically for the Bedford Hall. The following is an excerpt from a recent article in the Journal Times:

Some of the program's newest compositions will be two by Suchy, who created the pieces for the chorus, of which he is a member. Suchy composed "Bedford Sonus I" specifically for the Frances Bedford Concert Hall, using Parkside's new music venue as an instrument, said the composer, who is also a structural engineer.

After having met with the architect, and reviewing the drawings and actual space, Suchy said he designed the piece to utilize the physical and acoustic properties of the hall.

"This version is short, in order to fit the format of the concert," Suchy said. "But I hope to continue and expand this project for this and other unique spaces."

The composition utilizes the acoustic and architectural features of the Frances Bedford Concert Hall and integrates these features as part of the instrumentation. Research for the work included study of the architectural and structural design, including the acoustical properties of the room. This research also included discussions with the designers (architect, planner) from one perspective, and with those who use the hall (music faculty, performers) from another perspective.

The selection and placement of the instruments and performers has been determined with focus on the features of the hall. The score includes, chorus, piano, organ, timpani and three groups of handbells. Musical themes, tonality, and lyrics are inspired by "The Ten Books on Architecture" by Marcus Vitruvius Pollio.

Tickets are $15 adults, $12 seniors, $5 students, and can be purchased at Personal Touch Florists, 4060 N. Main St. and 5445 Spring St., Racine. Tickets are also available online at www.choralartsonline.org and at the door. For more information visit www.choralartsonline.org or call 262-634-3250.