Classical Concert Reviews Cinci

Cincinnati’s Vocal Arts Ensemble (@vaecinci) continued its current season with a program titled Harmony Across Traditions, principally exploring gospel music and modern takes on the African-American spiritual. Under the engaging and fantastically fun direction of guest conductor Isaac Cates (@isaac_cates) and joined by it’s principal accompanist David Kirkendall, the choir possessed a passionate, warm and gorgeously-blended sound throughout, particularly in selections by Roland Carter, Moses Hogan and B.E. Boykin.
The program’s back half gave VAE to chance to delve into modern gospel music, a genre they otherwise rarely perform, through a selection of Cates’ own compositions, including songs like It’s Working and Be Healed. These were much more free and loose in nature, giving soloists like Avery Bargasse (@averybargasse) and Lauryn Davis (@laurynkelliesings) great opportunities to demonstrate their vocal facility with this style of music. Cates also showed that he is a wizard at the piano, incorporating harmonies reminiscent of R&B and West Coast jazz.
There were also quite a few moments for audience participation, which was actively encouraged in much of the second half. This was partially due to the fact that modern gospel music as a whole is heavily built on traditions of Black churches, which includes active encouragement/engagement.
It can be said that tonight’s concert was most certainly life-changing for many, and I eagerly anticipate Isaac Cates’ next collaboration in Cincinnati when that time comes.