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An die Leier, by Franz Schubert

8/28/2020

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By Ace Gangoso
Atreus, Cadmus, and Alcides aren’t household names these days, but one need not be well-versed in Greek mythology to understand the singing poet’s struggle in An die Leier.  The song has a startling beginning with chords that crash and clash, painting a sonic picture of disaster and destruction.  It is essentially the soundtrack to the year 2020.
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Hercules fighting Achelous transformed into a snake (1824), by François-Joseph Bosio
The vocal line begins with a pompous war-cry, declaring honor and loyalty to these mighty heroes as if marching into an epic battle.   However, the piano (representing the lyre) takes on a life of its own, modulating toward a more peaceful soundscape.  And despite another effort to revert to the original bombastic tones, the sounds of love ultimately win.  The transitions are almost comical, but reveal a certain truth: artists can falter, but art is pure.
As a musician, I have found it difficult at times to keep a hopeful and optimistic focus.  What helps to pick me up and keep me going is witnessing the craftiness and ingenuity that continues to emerge despite our current circumstances.  From online virtual performances to mini-concerts on balconies to murals and street paintings—creative life lives on and thrives.  This week, in celebration of the women’s suffrage centennial, sculptor Meredith Bergmann unveiled statues of pioneers Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Sojourner Truth in New York City’s Central Park.
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Sojourner Truth, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony (2020), by Meredith Bergmann
These are all wonderful reminders that, even in the darkest of times, beauty and inspiration are all around.  As makers and lovers of music, we have to keep the faith and support one another.  Although our world is volatile and full of discord, art can lead us and change the tune.
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Author

Tenor Ace Gangoso recently completed his first season with Fourth Coast Ensemble.  His various other musical affiliations, including the CSO and Grant Park Choruses, Chicago a cappella, the Archdiocese of Chicago, and the Chicago Black Catholics Choir, hint at his interests in different musical genres and styles.  He believes good songs are like onions: they come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, have many layers, and take on the unique flavors added by those entrusted to their care.

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So wahr die Sonne scheinet, by Robert Schumann

5/22/2020

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This week's #artsongfix brings you a never-before-seen studio recording of the ensemble singing So wahr die Sonne scheinet, from Robert Schumann's song cycle Minnespiel, featuring pianist Dana Brown.

​Considered a gateway work into Schumann's later stylistic period, Minnespiel was written in 1849 during a time of great upheaval in the composer's life. The work takes its text from Friedrich Rückert, and centers on themes of love, marriage, and fidelity.  You are hearing the final movement today, with a text that exclaims:
As truly as the sun shines
I love you, as you love me.
Fun Fact: This recording is the VERY first performance the ensemble ever gave with ensemble tenor Ace Gangoso, who joined the group in July of 2019!
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Author

Bridget Skaggs is the founding mezzo-soprano and Executive Director of Fourth Coast Ensemble.  She studied opera at Oklahoma City University's Wanda L. Bass School of Music, and moved to Chicago in 2012 to pursue a dual career in singing and yoga.  Bridget's passion for art song grows from her lifelong love of words, communication, and the human voice.

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    About

    Hello, and welcome to the blog!  We are Fourth Coast Ensemble, Chicago's classical vocal quartet.  Join a different member of our ensemble each week for insights into our favorite art songs, links to archival and new recordings, and reflections on why we value and continue to come back to this musical medium.  We proudly present, your weekly #artsongfix!

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4955 S. Kimbark Ave.
Chicago, IL 60615
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Website photography by Elliot Mandel Photography
  • About
    • The Organization
    • Quartet & Staff Members
    • Season Spotlight Composer
  • Blog
  • On Stage
    • 2021 HD Season >
      • Soprano | Mezzo Duo
      • Tenor | Bass Duo
      • Quartet Remix
      • songSLAM
    • Past Seasons >
      • 2019-20 Season >
        • Songs of Fourth Coast
        • American Woman
        • Between the Lines
        • Four by Four
  • Support
    • Give
  • Contact