Resonanz, the Rochester Oratorio Society’s “Choir for Hire”, is a versatile group that sings pop, jazz, Americana, and holiday music in a wide variety of settings, from convention centers to birthday parties to street fairs. They are also known for their educational outreach, bringing programs of social and historical significance to schools and libraries across the region.
Inherent to Resonanz is every member’s ability to perform in quartets, octets, or similar small groups as best suits each performance space and occasion. Resonanz has prepared over 90 musical selections comprising holiday music and carols, patriotic, folk and Americana, romantic songs, and American popular classics from the past seven decades. Close harmonies, energetic rhythmic execution, dance-inspired selections and stirring, and sentimental, “heartland” style music typify the Resonanz repertoire. Increasingly, Rochester Oratorio Society concert selections and music by contemporary and Renaissance composers have been added to the book, further expanding the group’s range.
HISTORY
Resonanz was formed in the fall of 2008 as a choir of about 40 voices selected by audition from among the members of the Rochester Oratorio Society (ROS). The idea for this “choir within the choir” was initiated in 2006, when as part of the artistic planning with incoming Artistic Director Eric Townell, the ROS Board of Directors indicated their interest in forming a small touring ensemble. In spring 2007, Townell offered the Board the concept of a flexible, innovative, high-quality small ensemble that could represent the larger chorus. The group performs a cappella or with keyboard accompaniment.
MEMORABLE PERFORMANCES
Resonanz performed three selections as part of an unprecedented appearance of the Rochester Oratorio Society on WXXI-TV’s Voices program, taped before a live audience on May 30, 2009. The ensemble made its solo broadcast debut in a one-hour, live performance/interview program for WXXI Radio (Backstage Pass with Julia Figueras, December 2009).
Resonanz’s engagements to date have included the Chatterbox Club, GEVA Theater, the Genesee Valley Club, Monroe Community College, Midtown Athletic Club, Canandaigua National Bank, Trident Precision Manufacturing and the South Wedge Merchants’ Association, and numerous library and in-school performances. Resonanz also regularly performs at ROS concerts, fundraising events, and the Oratorio Society’s annual vocal competition.
BOOKING RESONANZ
For more information on booking Resonanz for your upcoming party or event, contact the Rochester Oratorio Society office at
(585) 473-2234 or Email
