Commissioned Works
Reading Choral Society proudly commissions and premieres new choral music from some of America’s leading composers. This commitment allows RCS to share with our audiences some of the finest and freshest works for choruses.
Here are some of our commissioned works:
I Hear America Singing by Robert Maggio
Commissioned for the Society’s 130th Anniversary Season in 2004-2005, RCS performed the world premiere on November 6, 2004 at Albright College Chapel. Robert Maggio, Professor at West Chester University’s School of Music, attended the premiere and shared his thoughts on the composition with the audience and performers. This work is based on Walt Whitman’s poem, “I Hear America Singing.” This commission was underwritten by Sovereign Bank.
American Triptych by David Conte
RCS commissioned this 20-minute piece by nationally-known composer David Conte for its 125th Anniversary Season. David Conte attended the world premiere by the Society in November 1999 at the church of Sts. Constantine and Helen, Reading, PA. This work is written for chorus and instrumental accompaniment and was inspired by Walt Whitman’s poetry.
Winter’s Passing by David Himes
RCS Assistant Director David Himes wrote this collection of three short pieces. David Himes, a Berks County music educator and composer, chose words from Japanese poems about winter as his lyrics. Reading Choral Society commissioned this music for its 125th Anniversary Season and performed the world premiere in December 1999 at the Scottish Rite Cathedral, Reading.
Venite Adoramus, Dominum by Jayson Rotnak
Reading Choral Society and the Berks Classical Children’s Chorus premiered this new work in December 1997 and performed it again in December 2000.
Personet Hodie/Bell Carol arranged by Robert Page
Robert Page arranged this joyous Christmas music for Reading Choral Society and the Berks Classical Children’s Chorus. The Society and the Children’s Chorus premiered the work in December 1998 at the Scottish Rite Cathedral, Reading, PA. This commission was underwritten by Dail and David Richie.