Malone University Chorale
"The Malone University Chorale from Canton, Ohio (USA) presented a concert of sacred works at St. Katherine's Cathedral last night. The choir, under the direction of Dr. David Donelson, sang with a quality and intensity that brought the audience to their feet in a resounding roar of approval and applause." (Oppenheim Germany June, 2010)
“The Malone University Chorale presented their music to the enthusiastic listeners with such power and fervor that they were swept away in a sea of glorious choral sounds. Loud applause and jubilation were rewarded with more of their wonderful singing.” (Probstzella, Germany June, 2010)
Listen to the Chorale here:
One of the hallmarks of Malone University is the Malone University Chorale. Throughout the history of the institution, the Chorale has been respected for its high levels of musical accomplishments. Now in its 54th year, the Chorale is a mixed chorus of 70 men and women dedicated to the performance of a wide variety of European and American choral music. Those students invited to join the Chorale have been offered an opportunity to share their God-given musical talent with audiences all over the world through the blending of their voices. The Chorale's unique and exciting sound is testament to each singer's dedication and skill. The Chorale stands firmly on the foundation of their theme verse from the thirteenth chapter of Hebrews, "By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise continually, that is the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name." (vs. 15)
The University Chorale is known throughout the United States and Europe for its high level of musical excellence. Under the direction of David Donelson, Ed.D., the chorale's repertoire includes a cappella classics as well as hymn arrangements and spirituals. Members are selected through competitive auditions each academic year. The choir regularly performs for campus events such as Homecoming, Parent's Weekend, and Graduation, as well as the annual Christmas at Malone, a much loved tradition by sold-out audiences held the first weekend of December. Annual domestic tours by the Chorale have taken the ensemble throughout the United States and Canada. In 2005 and again in 2007, the Chorale traveled to Jamaica where they performed and participated in several service learning projects. Past international tours have included performances throughout central Europe and China. The Chorale toured throughout Germany, the Czech Republic and Austria from June 13th through June 29th of 2010. One of the highlights of this tour was a performance at the Salzburg Cathedral at the invitation of the Cathedral's music department. The Chorale has performed with the Voices of Canton and the University of Akron Concert Choir and participated in several choral festivals throughout Ohio. The Chorale performed the Symphony No.9 in D minor Op. 135 by Beethoven with the Tuscarawas Philharmonic Orchestra in February 2011 .
The University Chorale embarked on a tour of the upper Midwest, May 1-8, 2011, presenting concerts in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Minnesota. One concert sponsor wrote of the Chorale, "Delicious. As I sat listening to the variety of songs, I began jotting down words that came to mind to describe the music and the presentation of it. As I went back and looked at my list of words, I felt like I was describing two very different and delicious cups of coffee. On one hand it was so well blended, smooth, soft, gentle, mellow and soothing. Then on the other hand there were songs that were bold, vibrant, strong and eye-opening! Truly, we were blessed by the variety that came with your concert and the beautifully blended voices of the Chorale."
Highlights of their 2012-2013 season will include performances of Mahler's Second Symphony with the Canton Symphony Orchestra, a fully staged production of Amahl and The Night Visitors as part of Christmas at Malone, and a spring tour throughout the Eastern United States.
