This program by Cantate Concert Choir presents themes of separation and yearning with Maurice Duruflé’s haunting Requiem as the centerpiece. This chant-based masterwork, focused on peace and forgiveness, is complemented by Alan Hovhaness’s From the End of the Earth, Shruthi Rajasekar’s A Heart in Port, and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s By the Waters of Babylon. Featuring baritone James Rogers, mezzo-soprano Magdalena Wór, and organist Marvin Mills.



In the first Lift Every Voice Oratorio Fellowship event of 2026, renowned international conductor, vocal coach, and music educator Giovanni Reggioli offers his expertise in a masterclass on oratorio to the 25-26 cohort of Cantate fellows: soprano Ayanna Freelon-Coleman, mezzo-soprano Marcela Jones-Moreno, and baritone Lysle Follette, IV. Come hear these extraordinary singers and learn about oratorio repertoire, style, context, and tradition as well as the singer/conductor relationship. Join the artists after the event for a light reception. While admission is free, donations to the LEV program are warmly welcomed.

An evening with Cantate Chamber Singers, string quintet, and piano centers on Joel Thompson’s powerful Seven Last Words of the Unarmed, which enshrines and amplifies the last words of Black men killed by police violence. This incisive work is partnered with musical invocations of peace and comfort – Caroline Mallonee’s aching unaccompanied Dona Nobis Pacem; All Things Common and Blessed are They by Tarik O’Regan, In Paradisum by Ēriks Ešenvalds, and an exciting new commission from Cantate’s Young Composers’ Competition Winner Josíah Garza – to unite and inspire.



Our season finale, a collaboration between Cantate Concert Choir and Capital City Symphony, lifts us toward joy and shared humanity. In Beethoven’s iconic Symphony No. 9, we find hope, friendship, and a radiant Ode to Joy. The program opens with beloved choral miniatures by Felix Mendelssohn, Gabriel Fauré, and Ingrid Stölzel that remind us of music’s power to uplift and bring us together. Featuring exceptional vocal soloists including Jennifer Casey Cabot, soprano, and Cara Schaefer, mezzo-soprano.



Step back into the elegant world of 19th-century salons with “Songs & Spirits,” a one-time event that promises refinement and fun in support of Cantate. Alison and David Ottenbreit* host this intimate gathering of friends and music-lovers in their Chevy Chase home as Ramesh Meanger, Food & Beverage Director of the Cosmos Club, shares the mixological magic behind a flight of cheeky cocktails skillfully paired with enchanting period melodies brought to life by honey-voiced baritone James Rogers. Tickets are limited, so don’t miss your chance to reserve your seat at this uniquely Cantate celebration for the senses.

*For the security of the hosts, the full address will be provided after ticket purchase.