Spring Concert 2024
Join us Sunday, May 5 at 3:00 PM for our Spring Concert, “Night and Day,” at Central Christian Church.
The concert will feature music by composer Elaine Hagenberg that will be performed on the International Tour to Italy this summer!
Admission at the door is $15 for adults and $10 for students.
Opus 24 is going to Italy!
Decatur’s very own Opus 24 is about to embark on the musical adventure of a lifetime: a trip to Italy, with its rich musical history and cultural heritage. This is the perfect setting for Opus to learn, grow, and share their passion on an international stage while showcasing their exceptional talent.
To make this dream a reality, Opus 24 is reaching out to the community, local businesses, and individuals who share their passion for music and cultural exchange. If you are interested in donating to or sponsoring the trip to Italy, please visit our Support page or contact decaturchoralfund@gmail.com.
Conductor’s Message
In our human experience, there exists a profound connection between the earth, the divine and the language of music. Et in Terra Pax is Latin for And on Earth, Peace. It serves as the central theme for the musical journey Opus 24 will present on Sunday, November 19. The dedicated and talented choir members have been diligently rehearsing to bring our community an afternoon of peace and beauty through music.
At its core, the notion of Et in Terra Pax encapsulates humanity’s pursuit of peace and unity on Earth. We yearn for harmony between individuals, nations and our natural world. Music is a universal language and a powerful tool in bringing us closer to this ideal. It transcends borders, languages and cultures to bring people together in a shared emotional experience.
For many, peace is a spiritual concept. Music is frequently used as a means to connect with the divine. It transcends the ordinary and allows us to express our faith, devotion and reverence. For centuries, composers have been inspired to create works that seem to bring us closer to and aid in worship of the divine. The Et in Terra Pax text can be found in the Gloria which is the second part of the Ordinary of the Mass. It is found in the Roman rite by the 6th century and the Greek version can be traced to the 2nd century. This sacred text has been set to music by numerous composers. It is astounding to think that this text is only one example of many that connects us to the divine and to others throughout time.
We believe the music of our concert is a testament to the power of music to transcend, connect and unite. In a world that continues to need and seek serenity, we hope to provide our community a sense of peace and calmness during the upcoming holiday season. Thank you for your continued support of Opus!
Decatur Choral Society Purpose
A) To plan, promote and develop the opportunity for singing and performing a broad range of distinguished sacred and secular choral literature for the people of Decatur, Macon County and surrounding communities in Illinois.
B) To promote public appreciation of choral works and performance of them and to educate the general public in this type of music.