Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society to present the story of Jesus Christ through music in Logan

By Katherine Weinstein | [email protected]

Sometimes the old saying, "every cloud has a silver lining," rings true. Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society Director Sherri Jensen recently had to scramble to find a new concert venue for the spring production of "Lamb of God." By moving to the Ellen Eccles Theater in Logan, however, she gained the opportunity to present the Easter-themed piece along with a reprise of last Christmas' orchestral and choral work, "King of Kings." 

"It will be a musical panorama of the life of Jesus Christ from His birth to the Resurrection," Jensen explained. "I think it's going to be absolutely amazing. I'm so excited!" 

Composer Rob Gardner is presenting “Lamb of God” in Salt Lake City and asked Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society to move their production to a performance space outside of the Wasatch Front. Their performances will now take place at the Ellen Eccles Theater in Logan on March 25 and 26. 

The performance schedule at the Eccles was such that the Philharmonic will be able to present both "King of Kings" and "Lamb of God" in one evening. "It's been a dream of mine to put these two pieces together," said Jensen. 

The running time of both musical pieces combined is approximately two and a half hours. "It will not be as long as 'Savior of the World' or 'Les Misérables,'" she noted. 

Both "King of Kings" and "Lamb of God" have been described by their composers as "musical experiences." Based on the gospels, "Lamb of God" tells the story of Jesus' last days through the eyes of His disciples and loved ones. Similarly, "King of Kings," written by Draper composers Tyler Teerlink and Jake Lives, imagines a back story to the Nativity through contemporary music. 

Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society has added theatrical elements to the production which makes it stand out from traditional orchestral and choral performances. The soloists will be in biblical costumes and set pieces such as a "stone" wall, stables and a throne will add to the spectacle on stage.

Principal violist Risae Carlson appreciates the differences that set Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society apart from other community orchestras. "I enjoy that the music is not just orchestral," she said. "It's the choir and soloists, it's different from what I've always played."

She is looking forward to the upcoming performances. "'King of Kings' doesn't include the usual Christmas-y music," Carlson explained. "You can perform it any time of year. I'm excited to do both pieces. I think people will be affected by the story."

Performing these works is an emotional experience for the musicians and singers in Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society.

Although soprano Heidi Price has sung "Lamb of God" several times before, she never tires of the piece. "It's just a joy to sing," Price explained. "The music is well-written with beautiful melodies and poetic lyrics. It's just so moving it's hard to describe." 

"I think we have a lot of beautiful Christmas music," she continued. "I feel like we don't have enough music for Easter.” Price added that this concert will be an opportunity to hear music that celebrates both sacred holidays.

The concert affords Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society the opportunity to showcase their musical talent. “I’m amazed at how much talent we have,” Jensen said. “They are just all phenomenal. We are so blessed.”

Some of the soloists will be familiar to local audiences. Dallyn Vail Bayles is singing the roles of Joseph in “King of Kings” and John in “Lamb of God.” Serena Mackerell will be reprising her role singing the part of Mary in “King of Kings.” Eric Peterson is singing the role of Peter in “Lamb of God.”

Draper Philharmonic & Choral Society will present “King of Kings” and “Lamb of God” at the Ellen Eccles Theater located at 43 S. Main St. in Logan at 7 p.m. on March 25 and 26. For tickets and more information, visit www.draperphilharmonic.org