Who are Chorus Angelorum?
Chorus Angelorum Chattanooga is a twelve person ensemble comprised of several of the area's best amateur and professional vocalists. The ensemble was formed in early 2020 with the intent of safely providing online choral concerts, both sacred and secular, during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Even as things have returned to normal, Chorus Angelorum continues to fill a vital role in the Chattanooga Arts community by providing free concerts, both live and online.
The Art of Borrowing
It is often said that there is nothing new under the sun. Composers and performers alike frequently emulate and adapt one another's works to fit a new time or context. Almost every classical composer you could think of has at one time borrowed from herself, especially if she has had a long career. Rather than viewing it as a lack of originality, it illuminates the composer's deep engagement with her own work and the desire to revisit and refine earlier ideas.
Perhaps even more recognizable to the ear is borrowing from one another. In the Medieval and Renaissance periods, composers used existing plainchant as the basis for new compositions. Even now, composers refer to these chants as a basis for new works. Moreover, variations on themes often serve to honor and preserve the legacy of the original works of an admired composer.
On a more contentious note, the concept of stealing in music, where compositions are overtly borrowed without acknowledgment, presents ethical dilemmas. Conductor Rollo Dilworth's research into cultural appropriation underscores the fine line between respectful homage and exploitation. Dilworth advocates for a balanced approach where cultural elements are borrowed with reverence and understanding, ensuring that all music, irrespective of its origin, is accorded the same respect and diligence in its presentation.
​
Saturday April 20, 2024 | 7:00pm
Christ Episcopal Church, Chattanooga TN
663 Douglas Street
​
Sunday April 21, 2024 | 4:00pm
First Baptist Church of Chattanooga
401 Gateway Avenue
​
2023-2024
Season Schedule
October 7, 2:00-4:00pm
Pilgrim Congregational Church
Harvest Harmony Fundraiser
celebrating 5 years of singing!
December 16, 5:00pm
Christ Church Episcopal, Chattanooga
featuring choir, organ, and brass!
February 3, 7:00pm
Christ Church Episcopal, Chattanooga TN
February 4, 4:00pm
La Fayette Presbyterian Church, Lafayette GA
Songs of Stage and Screen
a concert of choral music from film, TV, and video games
April 20, 7:00pm
Christ Church Episcopal, Chattanooga
April 21, 4:00pm
First Baptist Church of Chattanooga
The Art of Borrowing
a concert of works featuring borrowed melodies from various times, traditions and cultures
June 9, TBA
St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Chattanooga
In collaboration with the AGO Chattanooga, we will perform our second concert of works for Choir and Organ