Part I: The Grand Opening – Rutter’s Mass of the Children

The concert begins with a monumental collaboration. Under the direction of Dr. Kelly Miller, the UCF SoAL, TeBa, and UCF Community Choirs join forces with the UCF Wind Ensemble to perform John Rutter’s Mass of the Children. This masterful work is celebrated for its soaring melodies and rich, symphonic textures, offering a vibrant and uplifting start to the evening that highlights the beauty of intergenerational harmony.

Part II: The Spirit of Heritage – Light, Love, and Gospel

Following intermission, the energy shifts as the University Singers and Chamber Choir, led by Dr. Jeffery Redding, present a program of profound depth and celebration. The second half explores the brilliant “light” of modern choral music before transitioning into a powerful tribute to heritage and hope:

• Contemporary Classics: The ethereal, shimmering sounds of Eric Whitacre’s Water Night and movements from Elaine Hagenberg’s Illuminare.
• Romantic Mastery: Timeless selections from Mendelssohn’s Elijah and the stirring “I Lift Mine Eyes.”
• The Finale: A high-energy celebration of Black History Month, featuring soul-stirring Gospel selections and tributes to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This climactic finish promises to leave the audience inspired, uplifted, and on their feet.

Featured Ensembles

• University Singers & Chamber Choir (Dr. Jeffery Redding, Conductor)
• UCF SoAL, TeBa, & Community Choir (Dr. Kelly Miller, Conductor)
• The UCF Wind Ensemble

Program Highlights

• John Rutter: Mass of the Children
• Elaine Hagenberg: Illuminare (Movements)
• Eric Whitacre: Water Night
• Felix Mendelssohn: Selections from Elijah
• Tributes: Celebration of the African American Choral Tradition and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Student tickets: $20 with code knightcta26, valid UCF or student ID required.