The program which coincides with a total solar eclipse passing over northern Maine aims to “create a space for emotional sanctuary, asking participants to pause doing and focus on being—in this moment, at this place, with the people around them.”

Dr. Emily Isaacson discusses Oratorio Chorale’s upcoming Room to Breathe concerts in the inaugural episode of Maine Public Classical’s new interview series, State of the Art.

The seemingly simple changes acknowledge a version of Handel that resists heteronormative rhetoric and invites a more inclusive interpretation of the work.

Classical Uprising of Portland, Maine, are collaborating with ChamberQUEER of Brooklyn in putting on two performances of the popular oratorio this weekend.

“The week was really such a moving experience. It reminded me why I write music in the first place: to make these connections,” Snider said.

“One goal of the merger [of Oratorio Chorale and Portland Bach Experience], Isaacson says, was to create an “intergenerational space,” one that appeals to a variety of needs and audiences.

Abbott emphasizes the ability of the Bowdoin Chorus to bring together singers with a large range of experience and allow them to be a part of high quality rehearsals and performances, while improving the skills of inexperienced and experienced singers alike.

“Unforeseen Grace is a celebration of what happens at the intersection of music, environment, and community,” said Isaacson.

“My main competition is Netflix. I want people to get off their couches and go out and experience the power and magic of live music.”

“It was just clear to me that there was a desire for a slightly more formal format to be learning,” Isaacson said. “It’s one of the things that I love about music— there are endless things to learn and to create.”

"It will be great to be up there offering this music of hope and inspiration in such a difficult year," the Classical Uprising artistic director says.

It is a gift to the community, a rare moment of love and light, brought together under the universal language of music.

Brunswick native returns to her local roots to conduct Oratorio Chorale.