In this powerful exploration of human longing and belonging, Kantorei will perform Caroline Shaw’s To the Hands, a modern response to Dieterich Buxtehude's 17th-century work Ad Manus (also included in the program). Shaw’s piece touches on crucial themes of human connection, suffering, and compassion, often drawing parallels with current social issues, such as the refugee crisis. Also featured is Melissa Dunphy’s N-400 Erasure Songs, a multi-movement work with texts derived from different sections of the N-400 Application for Naturalization (the form immigrants must complete to become U.S. citizens), using the erasure technique - selectively removing words from existing text to create poetry.

Experience how these diverse works, spanning from Baroque to contemporary, address themes of humanity, compassion, and identity. Each piece offers a unique perspective on our shared struggles and aspirations. Join us for a performance of moving choral music that speaks to the human condition and our collective yearning for connection and understanding.