Sunday, March 2, 2025 at 4:00 pm
Monday, March 3, 2025 at 7:30 pm

John Morris Russell, Conductor
Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra Chorus
Claflin University Concert Choir, Dr. Charie Toomer, Jr., Director
Statesboro Youth Chorale, Michael Roemer, Director

One of the most popular works in any genre over the last century, Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana is a musical feast for the senses. Set for double chorus, children’s chorus, three vocal soloists and full orchestra, Carmina is an adaptation of 24 poems from a Medieval manuscript discovered in the early 19^th century and set to music by Carl Orff in the 1930s. The secular text is a paean to the fleeting nature of life, the fickleness of fate, and the pleasures and perils of drink, gluttony, and lust. Orff’s score is at once powerful, mysterious, hypnotic, and exotic; especially the opening and closing chorus “O Fortuna”, which has been used in hundreds of films and television soundtracks. The HHSO Chorus is joined by The Claflin University Concert Choir, and the Statesboro Youth Choir.

“One of the most deliciously decadent and thrilling works for chorus and orchestra, Carmina expresses a kaleidoscope of emotions and enchantment.” – John Morris Russell, Music Director

With classical voices presented by the Savannah VOICE Festival