Vocal ensemble Chanticleer has unveiled its summer season, which includes a 12-stop European tour.

But before heading to the old continent, the group performs at Appalachian State University on July 3 and at the Newport Classical Music Festival four days later.

Then comes the 12-part tour across Belgium, Germany, Italy, and Austria from July 11-27, 2024; there will be a collaborative performance alongside Voce8 on July 13. Throughout the journey, the ensemble will present two programs “Music of a Silent World” and “Sing Joyfully.”

The former program is a brand new one with the centerpiece being Majel Connery’s “The Rivers are our Brothers.” The work’s title is based on a quote from a Native American leader Chief Seattle.

“The goal,” says Connery, “is to give nature a voice. I wanted to allow these vibrant things to speak on their own behalf.”

“Sing Joyfully” is a best-of program that combines several genres including part-songs, contemporary commissions, vocal jazz, and “everything in between.”