submitted by Jean Casatelli, Communications Specialist, Questar III
Rachel Gordon, a senior at Berlin High School, has been selected for the prestigious Artist Apprenticeship with Albany Pro Musica, the premier choral group in the Capital Region.
Upon hearing the news, Gordon said, “I’m very excited and looking forward to this challenging opportunity.”
The Artist Apprenticeship Program began in 1998 and now includes both vocal and instrumental students. Apprentices join Albany Pro Musica for specific concert performances and are chosen based on the results of their most recent NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) ratings and recommendations from their music teacher.
This year there were 29 applicants for the Berlioz/Faure/Poulenc Apprenticeship, and Gordon was one of the 14 selected. She will be rehearsing with APM and performing in two concerts. A March 27 performance will feature Langlais’ “Messe Solennelle,” “Cantique de Jean Racine” and the Faure Requiem, at the Cathedral of All Saints, 68 South Swan Street, Albany. The Berlioz Requiem and the Poulenc Gloria will be performed on May 7 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, corner of Eagle and Madison, Albany.
Albany Pro Musica’s 29-year history is distinguished by tremendous artistic growth, expanding audiences and increasing national recognition for choral excellence. The choral group includes approximately 65 singers in its core group and as many as 150 singers in its expanded APMasterworks chorus. Under the direction of David Griggs-Janower, the group is known for its large scale choral orchestral works as well as its exceptional mastery of a cappella works.
Gordon has been a member of the Berlin Choral program for the past seven years under the direction of Ms. Jean Kirsch. She has participated in All-County Choruses, had leading roles in the Berlin Middle and High School Drama Clubs and was selected for the 2009 NYSSMA Zone 7 Area All-State Chorus and the 2009 NYSSMA Conference All-State Mixed Chorus. An avid soccer player, Gordon is also President of the Berlin High School Student Council and a member of the National Honor Society. She is the daughter of Scott and Theresa Gordon of Stephentown.