What can I say, but thanks!  Thanks to the musicians, William Way, and the volunteers who were all critical to the success of the showcase presented by LocalArtsLive and William Way.  To say that the audience was enthusiastic would be an understatement.  I don't think I've ever heard whistles of approval for a cappella performances of 16th century music before.  Just listen to the response when The Laughing Bird completed their short 20 minute set!  Read Carlos Roberto Ramirez's wonderful review, which captured the essence of the evening and provided some additional insight into the music.

The Laughing Bird

The a cappella singers kicked things off with stunning harmonies and beautiful delivery of a series of French music from the 16th century:

Pierre Certon's Frere Thibault

Orlando di Lasso's Missa super "Frere Thibault" Kyrie

Orlando di Lasso's A ce matin

For more information, check out their website.

photo credit: Becky Oehlers

Beta Test Music

In a rather extreme change of direction.  Beta Test Music filled the stage area and rocked the room in the next set with sounds of brass and drums:

Danny Elfman's Beetlejuice

Douglas Laustsen's Diminutive Tetriminos

For more information, check out their website

Murmuration

The final set consisted of four pieces made up on the spot by Murmuration.  In a fun twist, an audience member handed them the text from Laughing Bird's music and they gave it their own interpretation:

Frere Thibault improvisation

Improvisation #4

For more information, "like" them on Facebook

William Way LGBT Community Center

A very friendly and well attended reception followed the mini-concerts.  Thanks to William Way for spreading the word to your members, providing a wonderful space for the showcase, hosting the reception, printing the programs, ticketing, and so much more!  

For more information, check out their website

This showcase was so much fun that it will be difficult to follow, but I'll give it my best shot.  To make sure you know when to mark your calendar, be sure to "like" the LocalArtsLive Facebook page, follow on Twitter, or sign up for the newsletter.