New York City’s leading chamber choir, Musica Viva NY, known for its commitment to premiering new compositions, will present a performance of the works of Joseph Turrin, Gilda Lyons, and Richard Einhorn on Dec. 3, 2023. The event will feature the renowned mezzo-soprano Frederica von Stade, who will make Musica Viva NY debut. Von Stade is slated for induction into OPERA America’s Opera Hall of Fame in 2024.

The concert will take place at All Souls on the Upper East Side and include the talents of over 30 singers and an orchestra. In addition, there are plans for a professional recording to be released in 2024.

The lineup includes a 45-minute cantata by Joseph Turrin, which addresses the theme of World War One. It draws from the era’s poetry to reflect on various aspects of the war. Also featured is “Momotombo,” an a capella piece by Gilda Lyons that was inspired by Nicaraguan poetry and history. The program will conclude with Richard Einhorn’s “The Luminous Ground” for SATB chorus, strings, and piano, which is a musical piece inspired by the light installations of artist James Turrell and a representation of a serene state referenced in Buddhist philosophy.

“Musica Viva NY is looking forward to giving fans a sneak peek of our forthcoming album, the first we’ve recorded during my tenure,” said Alejandro Hernandez-Valdez, Conductor/Artistic Director of Musica Viva NY, in an official press statement. “And, we couldn’t be more excited to welcome our special guest, the legendary singer Frederic von Stade. What a thrilling way to end the year!”