Notes and Phrases

Dave Joyce, a bassist in this years Choral Art Ensemble, reveals his favorite piece for the Christmas at Assisi Concert

We asked our members what they are thankful for. Here is one of the reason

Did you know that MN was ranked as the Most Charitable State in 2018 according to the annual study by Wallethub? The state ranked 1st overall in the "Volunteer and Service" category, and 4th in "Charitable Giving". Choral Arts Ensemble appreciates both forms and asks that you consider these upcoming opportunities to support our concerts and outreach efforts this season. Volunteer to help at our upcoming Christmas as Assisi concerts on Dec. 13, 14 or 15. We're looking for

A new piece by Carol Barnett will be premiered this weekend! Commissioned for Choral Arts by Noel and Ann Peterson in celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary, the text is from a letter written by St. Clare of Assisi and encourages us to "go forward securely, joyfully, and swiftly". And, it's the piece Sarah is most excited about!

A new piece by Carol Barnett will be premiered this weekend! Commissioned for Choral Arts by Noel and Ann Peterson in celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary, the text is from a letter written by St. Clare of Assisi and encourages us to "go forward securely, joyfully, and swiftly". And, it's the piece Sarah is most excited about!

Sister Mary Joseph Dempsey, born Julia Dempsey in Salamanca, NY, in 1856, was a formidable woman. Given “on the job” training, she displayed superlative technical skill and judgment in surgery and was for many years, Dr. Will Mayo’s first assistant, preferred over all others, including physicians. Often as Will paused to explain a procedure to the observing guest physicians, Sister Joseph would continue the operation. If that weren’t enough, she served as administrator for

In Giving We Receive, our concert to honor the Sisters of Saint Francis, will include a piece to celebrate the visionary founder, Mother Alfred Moes, who proposed building a hospital after the 1883 tornado, convinced the Mayo surgeons to staff it, raised the money, and opened St Marys on September 30, 1889. Choral Arts Ensemble will sing Joseph Rheinberger’s gorgeous six-part motet, Abendlied, since at the same time Mother Alfred, then young Maria Catherine Moes, was deciding

Yes, there's a Gregorian Chant and some Brahms - but also pieces that will get your toes tapping and which speak directly to the inspirational and evolving work of the Rochester Sisters of St. Francis.

We asked the singers this question at rehearsal last night First up - Andy Johnsrud!

After nearly three years as Executive Director for Choral Arts Ensemble in Rochester, Minnesota, Bob Giere will retire from the role in October. “Choral Arts Ensemble is a wonderful organization, and it has been a privilege to help lead it through several important changes," says Giere. “I will continue to support Choral Arts Ensemble in a variety of ways, but this is a good time for me to step back and focus more on other things including my role as music associate and choi