BC University Chorale Delivers an Evening of Musical Introspection and Optimism

St. Ignatius Church was brimming with attendees as the Boston College University Chorale, in formal attire, faced their audience and initiated the evening with 'Les Chansons des Roses,' an ode to self-acceptance. Their harmonious voices set a contemplative atmosphere, akin to a serene night service. At the conclusion of the opening piece, Riikka Pietiläinen Caffrey, the new Chorale director, warmly welcomed the crowd to 'Rock-A My Soul,' an event that promised introspection, hopefulness, and a touch of Dolly Parton.

With the audience eagerly clapping, the concert progressed into a silent suspense before the choir members, emerging from amongst the spectators, began the soul-stirring 'Wanting Memories' by Sweet Honey in the Rock. Their journey from the crowd to the stage symbolically amplified their sound and collective strength, culminating in powerful finale of the song.

The night was also a tribute to the late Alice Parker, with two Chorale members celebrating her legacy as a trailblazer for female composers in sacred music and her passion for finding beauty amidst worldly struggles. Her composition 'Hark I Hear the Harps Eternal' was performed in honor of her relentless fight for social justice and peace.

BC's own professor and composer Shannon Jacob introduced the spirituals - soulful anthems of resilience originating from African American slaves in the 1800s. While recounting the dark origins of these songs as a means to endure severe oppression, a subset of the choir appropriately performed 'God’s Gonna Set This World on Fire.'

The contrasting joy in the Chorale's delivery with the weighty lyrics highlighted an unwavering human spirit. Before concluding the program, Chorale members imparted a message of hope by performing 'Light of a Clear Blue Morning' by Dolly Parton and 'Let the River Run' by Carly Simon, with Parton's song reminding everyone of shared struggles and community.

Their choice to feature Parton was explained by her influential voice, her benevolent acts, and advocacy, all resonating with the theme of solidarity.

Caffrey ended the night with consoling words, affirming that despite society's challenges, hope abounds. 'There is always light as long as we are brave enough to see it, as long as we are brave enough to be it,' she declared, encapsulating the core message of the evening.

reflection, hope, chorale