Opera star Sherrill Milnes directs local choirs in “Elijah”
Internationally acclaimed baritone Sherrill Milnes and North Central College alumnus returns to his alma mater this weekend as guest director of the combined Naperville Chorus and Downers Grove Choral Society for a rousing performance of “Elijah,” one of Felix Mendelssohn’s greatest achievements. The Feb. 21 concert will feature nearly 200 singers, professional soloists and orchestra in the acoustically perfect Wentz Concert Hall at the Fine Arts Center, 171 E. Chicago Ave.
A Downers Grove native, Milnes is universally acclaimed as the foremost opera baritone of his generation. His remarkable voice, artistic integrity and commanding stage presence have made him a superstar in every sense. In a repertoire that covers some 70 roles over a 42-year singing career, Milnes has conquered all of the opera capitals of the world and is especially known for his operatic roles of Verdi and Puccini. Recently, Milnes was named one of five winners of the 2008 Opera News Awards for distinguished achievement, the highest honor in the world of opera.
Milnes has a personal interest in returning to his hometown roots to direct “Elijah.” He has starred in the oratorio on multiple occasions and made his New York conducting debut at Carnegie Hall with “Elijah.” It was also a favorite work of his mother, whom Milnes credits for nurturing his love of music. His mother also co-founded the Downers Grove Choral Society, which is celebrating its 50th year with this concert performance and Milnes’ guest appearance as director.
The Downers Grove Choral Society is directed by Robert Holst and the Naperville Chorus is directed by Jeordano Martinez, North Central College professor of music.
Tickets to the 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, concert are $20/person; call the North Central College Box Office at 630-637-SHOW (7469) or visit http://finearts.northcentralcollege.edu/x45308.xml. In addition, two recital CDs, an all-star gala DVD and Milnes’ autobiography “American Aria: From Farm Boy to Opera Star” will be available for purchase.
Concert-goers can also meet and talk with Milnes and the soloists at a cocktail reception following the concert in Madden Theatre in the Fine Arts Center. Tickets are an additional $25/person and include wine, punch and hors d’oeuvres; call the box office or visit www.elijahconcert.org.
Milnes will direct the two choirs in a second performance of “Elijah” on Sunday, Feb. 22, at 3 p.m. at the Tivoli Theater in Downers Grove. Tickets are $20/person; call 630-515-0030 or visit www.elijahconcert.org.
