Classical Minnesota Public Radio Presents the American Spiritual Ensemble

Jan 30, 2014

Classical MPR presents a two-day residency of the American Spiritual Ensemble (ASE). A critically acclaimed ensemble, the group is comprised of some of the country's best classically trained voices, including Metropolitan Opera soloists, Broadway theater veterans and some of the best vocal professors in the U.S. The mission of the ASE is to aid in the preservation and advancement of the American Negro Spiritual.

Founded in 1995 by Dr. Everett McCorvey, the ASE has performed more than 500 concert programs of classically arranged spirituals around the globe. Through the ongoing live presentation and recording of this American folk music, the classically trained voices of ASE beautifully capture the haunting genius of these folk melodies. For more information, visit the ASE website.

The group will perform a public concert at Central Presbyterian Church on Thursday, February 13, at 7:30 p.m. Minnesota's own beloved choral tradition will be honored as the American Spiritual Ensemble performs a selection arranged by Minnesota composer Carol Barnett.

In addition to a public concert, the group will perform at St. Paul's Central High School and at the Minnesota Music Educators Association Conference in Minneapolis, sharing the riches of the Negro spiritual tradition with Minnesota students and music educators.

What: The American Spiritual Ensemble

When: Thursday, February 13, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Central Presbyterian Church is located at 500 Cedar Street in St. Paul. Parking is available at Minnesota Public Radio or the World Trade Center Ramp. A map and parking details are available on the church's web site.

Tickets: General admission seat tickets are $25 and can be purchased in-person at the Fitzgerald Theater Box Office, Tuesday - Friday, Noon-5 p.m. or by calling the Fitzgerald Theater Box Office at 651-290-1200. Tickets are also available through Ticketmaster by phone at 1-800-982-2787 or in person at any Ticketmaster outlet.