The Rochester Oratorio Society will perform the world premiere of composer Frank James Staneck’s “Twelfth Night,” a cantata based on Shakespeare’s comedy, at Hochstein Performance Hall in Rochester on Friday, February 28 at 7:30 p.m.  The program, which appeals to both fans of contemporary music and fans of William Shakespeare, also includes “Sunrise Mass” by composer Ola Gjeilo.

Staneck says that the opening line of the play, “If music be the food of love, play on,” inspired him: “A wonderful melody just came to me. I found myself singing it straight away.” As he continued reading, he said, “I felt the words were singing to me and I must do something with these gifts.” He says he is “delighted and excited” that the Rochester Oratorio Society will perform the world premiere performance of his work. Maestro Eric Townell, Artistic Director says that he and the ensemble are “deeply honored.”

In a shift in tone from the exuberant night of the cantata to the reverence of daybreak, the ensemble will perform another contemporary work, the sublime “Sunrise Mass.” Gjeilo says, “I wanted the musical development of the work to evolve from the most transparent and spacey, to something completely earthy and grounded; from nebulous and pristine to more emotional and dramatic, and eventually warm and solid—as a metaphor for human development from child to adult, or as a spiritual journey.”

The evening will also include selections by the Nazareth Bach Children’s Choir, directed by founder Karla Krogstad. Rounding out the program, the Rochester Oratorio Society Orchestra will perform Respighi’s Ancient Airs and Dances Suite No. 3.

Advance tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and students, and are available at https://ROSsings.org or at (585) 743-2234. Tickets at the door are $25.

ABOUT THE ROCHESTER ORATORIO SOCIETY:

Founded in 1945, the Rochester Oratorio Society is the region’s leading choral ensemble. The Oratorio Society has toured the world, commissioned and premiered major works and collaborated with the region’s finest vocalists, instrumentalists and ensembles. The organization produces four to six performances annually as well as the Rochester International Vocal Competition, each spring. Information on the Oratorio Society and its productions may be found at https://ROSsings.org or at (585) 743-2234.