It is hard to believe that we are here already, but this weekend, the West Michigan Gay Men's Chorus will present "Celebrate!," an evening of music from Beethoven, reggae, Broadway, and spirituals, on the occasion of their fifth anniversary.
In addition to a chorus of favorites, recreated in song and with a dramatic flair, will be the world premiere of "Vida Sin Miedo (Live without Fear)," written by Grand Rapids composer Lori Jacobs.
"I am thrilled and honored that they have selected 'Vida Sin Miedo,' because it was written for a dear friend and fellow chorus member, Len Robinson," says Jacobs. "When Len was younger, he had series medical problems that made walking a problem. He would often recount later in his adult years that it was his mother who would help through these dark times by saying, 'If you can’t walk, you should fly. And above all, live without fear.'"
It was his mother's motto that would go on to help young Len chase away the blues caused by the other school kids who would bully him for his affliction.
This second piece of Jacobs' that WMGMC has commissioned to be performed for audience members. Her first was a suite of songs from her work, Esther. And it is not likely to be her last, as she reports she's in the early stages of talks regarding a few other pieces that WMGMC's Artistic Director, RT Williams, would love to see performed live.
Admission: $20.
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