From poetry-inspired works to a bold, genre-blending Mass, this celebratory opening night honors the May Festival’s history while embracing the sound of its future.
Program
Anton Bruckner Psalm 150
Alexander von Zemlinsky Selections from Symphonische Gesänge
Margaret Bonds Selected Songs & Songs from Songs of the Season
To a Brown Girl Dead
Negro Speak of Rivers
Poème d’Automne from Songs of the Season
Winter Moon from Songs of the Season
April Rain
ECLECTIC MASS:
Selections from:
Carlos Simon Good News Mass and Sanctus
Giovanni Pierluigi de Palestrina Missa Assumpta est Maria
Johann Sebastian Bach Cantata No. 191
Margaret Bonds Credo
George Frideric Handel arr. Mounsey “Soulful Hallelujah”
Artists
Cristian MÄcelaru conductor
Julia Bullock soprano
Jason Alexander Holmes preacher
Carlos Simon hammond organ
Matthew Swanson director
Venue
Music HallWhat's Interesting
Join us for anunforgettable opening night of the May Festival! Bruckner’s Psalm 150 sets the tone with a fanfare of voices, then anchored by the words of Langston Hughes and fellow Harlem Renaissance poets, the evening traverses spiritual depths, culminating in a work of the May Festival’s own curation — the “Eclectic Mass” — a collection of pieces from the sacred music tradition, including a vibrant new Sanctus from Grammy-nominated composer, Carlos Simon. Combined, this concert is a powerful celebration of music from across centuries and genres, reflecting the Festival’s storied past while boldly stepping into its future.
Want to Learn More?
RSVP HERE for an in-person tour of the 2026 May Festival with artistic leaders Matthew Swanson, Director of Choruses and Jason Alexander Holmes, Associate Director of Choruses. Enjoy champagne and chocolates as you learn about the stories and insights behind the season at Music Hall on Sunday, NOV 2 at 5 PM. RSVP to Kathryn Zajac Albertson: [email protected] by Thursday, OCT 30.