Urban Flavor

Minneapolis, MN (March 30, 2009) – VocalEssence and the American Composers Forum announce the selection of seven emerging composers to participate in the 2009 Essentially Choral reading session. The winners were chosen from a field of 82 new works written by composers living in 29 states. The public is invited to attend a working rehearsal of the composers’ new music for voices and instruments on Saturday, April 18 (10 am-1 pm) at Sateren Auditorium in the Music Hall at Augsburg College (2211 Riverside Avenue, Minneapolis). No ticket is required for this free session.

Essentially Choral provides an opportunity for emerging composers to develop their skills in writing for choral ensemble, either a cappella or with instruments. During the weekend of April 16-18, the 32-voice professional VocalEssence Ensemble Singers (and instrumentalists, if called for) will rehearse these works-in-progress, allowing the composers the unique opportunity to hear their new music performed before it is finalized. VocalEssence Artistic Director Philip Brunelle and internationally recognized composer Steven Sametz will provide personal mentoring sessions and professional development seminars to the composers. Additionally, VocalEssence Ensemble Singer Krista J. Palmquist will offer the composers a voice class, which aims to further their skills in writing for singers.

Composers selected for the 2009 Essentially Choral program are:

* Timothy A. Berry, Waconia, MN—Unfolding Amen (a cappella)

* Matthew Brown, Los Angeles, CA—(though love be a day) (a cappella)

* Rebekah Driscoll, Brooklyn, NY—Voices of Quiet Joy (a cappella)

* Thomas Fielding, Raleigh, NC—Madrigals on Epigrams to Priapus (a cappella)

* Joni Greene, Bloomington, IN—Autumn Reflections (a cappella)

* Bill Kempe, Maplewood, MN—“Winter Chaconne” from Winter Songs (two percussionists, guitar – classical and electric, bass – acoustic and electric, synthesizer)

* Timothy Jon Tharaldson, Berthoud, CO—The Solitary Reaper (electro acoustic accompaniment on CD)


The program is co-sponsored by American Composers Forum and VocalEssence with the generous support of the Jerome Foundation and the Aaron Copland Fund for Music. - VocalEssence

Robinson's singular talent underscores his interpretations of traditional and contemporary songs, including the spiritual
"O Freedom" and Paul Simon's "Bridge Over Troubled Water." Drummer Timothy Berry and pianist Joseph Samuel Reeves maintain a
high energy level as they accompany the performers and enjoy the spotlight with their own lively "Soul Riff for the Children."

read the entire review for Soul To Sole at:

http://www.startribune.com/entertainment/onstage/88559907.html?elr=KArksD:aDyaEP:kD:aUg:oaEQDUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aULPQL7PQLanchO7DiUr - Minneapolis Star Tribune

Percussionist, Timothy Berry is mentioned in this review.

“Batuque” is inspired by the fun-loving samba but also draws upon Afro-Brazilian and contemporary dance as well as the rhythmic-based martial art form of capoeira. Every part of the body is engaged in fast-paced, fiercely athletic, hip-swiveling, counterpoint-driven propulsive movement, fueled by percussive beats courtesy of the outstanding Timothy Berry, Eliezer Freitas Santos, Samuel de Moraes and Brian Van Tassel.

The hour-long work is a journey, beginning and ending with carnival-like celebrations, but also delving into history, actively seeking out its roots on both sides of the south Atlantic Ocean, enhanced by visual artist Ta-coumba Tyrone Aiken’s evocative scenic panels and costume design.

The performers, many of whom are students at the University of Minnesota, brought high spirits to the work. Mette Towley, Davente Gilreath and company co-founder Jenny Pennaz were standouts for their smooth execution and exceptionally joyful commitment to mastering the complexities of the steps.

Dos Santos appeared minimally, settling into the choreographer’s role, and his dynamic presence was missed. There is room for growth in his dance-making — he could seek out more variation in the movement as well as challenge his performers to interact with one another more intently by tightening up the ensemble dancing (while continuing to strike a balance with individuality). Such synchronicity comes over time, and as the electrifying Contempo evolves, so too will the depth of its relationships onstage.

Caroline Palmer writes regularly about dance. -

March 13, 2008

Sould Drums made a recent appearance at Jefferson Elementary School to Present Afro-Cuban Jazz and Soul music to 350 elementary school children as part of their School Presentation Program for Schools. The following comments were from teachers regarding the program.

"My first grade students are still singing the songs. Thank you! - Very enjoyable."

"The students were moving, smiling, and really listening to the musicians! Soul Drums Rocks! Thanks!
- Jefferson Elementary Teachers

March 25, 2008

"Corner Coffee loved having Timothy Berry and band. They brought a great crowd, played lively fun music, were quick to set-up and tear down, and I look forward to having them back again."

Scott Woller
-Corner Coffee-

- Corner Coffee Management

February 2008

Timothy Berry played Djembe Drum for The Minnesota Grade 9 and 10 Honors Choir. The choir's coordinator made the following comment.

"Timothy:

YOU ROCK!

Thanks so much for playing with the 9-10 Honor Choir. Your skill and style were such an enhancement!
Many students and their directors commented to me regarding this.

THANKS so much."

Paula Holmberg

- Teacher Reviews