(MORRRISTOWN, NJ) -- The Morris Choral Society will perform Carl Orff’s signature piece Carmina Burana on May 20 at the United Methodist Church on the Green in Morristown. Interested singers should come to the Frelinghuysen Middle School, 10 Jane Way, Morristown, at 7:30pm on Mondays starting January 9. The program will use the 1956 version authorized by Carl Orff which is for two pianos and percussionists. The score has short solos for baritone and tenor.
Anyone interested in singing with the community chorus, which was founded in 1973, is welcome to audition during the month of January. The ability to read music is helpful, but not required. However, choral experience and a blending voice are requested.
The chorus is led by Michael Wittenburg, only the sixth Musical Director in the organization’s long history. He is not only a popular conductor, he is also an accomplished musician. Hailed as a “real virtuoso” by the great classical pianist Ruth Loredo, Mr. Wittenburg is active with many organizations. In addition to his leadership for the Morris Choral Society, he serves as Director of Music at Christ Lutheran Church of Paramus and Chorus Master for the New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera. A graduate of the Interlochen Arts Academy, he earned degrees from the Eastman School of Music and from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. He has been recognized with prestigious awards including the Osher Scholar Prize from the internationally known Pierre Monteux School for Conductors and Orchestral Musicians. He is also very much in demand as a guest artist.
“I enjoy my role as Music Director for the Morris Choral Society,” said Mr. Wittenburg. “We are excited to be performing Carmina Burana this spring and welcome new singers who wish to join us for this performance.”
As it nears its 50th anniversary, the Morris Choral Society continues as one of North Jersey’s leading community choruses. It has been recognized by Morris Arts as an Outstanding Arts Organization and has performed alongside many famous musicians including jazz legend Dave Brubeck and singer Judy Collins. In addition to performing for enthusiastic audiences in New Jersey, the chorus has toured England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France, Italy, Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic. Funding is provided in part by Morris Arts through the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State. Donations to the chorus are always welcomed.
