​A Potpourri of Songs

The Michael Teolis Singers is pleased to present an hour-long recital at the historic Pleasant Home, 217 Home Avenue, Oak Park , on February 28th at 4pm. (Click here for ticket information.)

Over the years, wonderful and familiar tunes have been set chorally by talented arrangers; some of them very well known to the musical world. Among those composers are Samuel Barber, Sir David Willcocks, Aaron Copland, W.C. Handy, and Duke Ellington. 

Among others, featured selections will include a collaboration between Ira Gershwin and Aaron Copland – “Younger Generation”; Samuel Barber’s own choral version of his “Sure on This Shining Night”; the legendary W.C. Handy’s arrangement for double chorus of James P Johnson’s “Aintcha Got Music”; and Alice Parker’s arrangement of Duke Ellington’s “Come Sunday.” 

We always like to uncover hidden vocal gems too, so expect a unique offering from Sir David Willcocks’ “You Bring Me Happiness.”  Willcocks is better known as a composer and conductor of serious compositions and his work at King’s College Cambridge; however, he wrote this song while serving for the British Army during World War II. It is quite a different statement by such a highly-revered musician, as it was written in a rather English-music hall vein.  

Rounding out the program will be Clay Warnick’s brilliant medley arrangement of Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess.”

To audiences familiar with our ensemble, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience reprises of your favorite pieces from some of our past concerts. For those who have yet to discover the Michael Teolis Singers, this might be the perfect occasion to be introduced to a truly special voice in Chicagoland’s music scene.