The Warren Philharmonic Orchestra, a Festival Chorus of 200 local singers and four acclaimed soloists will come together at Stambaugh Auditorium on Friday, April 25, to perform an historic concert—the Verdi Requiem.  They will join conductor Susan Davenny Wyner for this special performance honoring tenor Luciano Pavarotti whose death this past September is mourned the world over.

The concert presents a rare opportunity to hear the Requiem, which has not been performed in the area since Franz Bibo conducted its performance by the Youngstown Symphony Orchestra in the late 1970’s. Davenny Wyner says, “Verdi’s music is powerful, dramatic and intense. It goes from barest whispers to extraordinary outbursts of emotion, and in Stambaugh’s marvelous acoustics, the huge chorus, soloists and orchestra, which has 8 trumpets, should sound glorious.”

The performers for the Verdi include the Warren Philharmonic Orchestra, a Festival Chorus of 200 singers from the greater area   —  including the Stambaugh Chorus,  Don Megahan, director,   Westminster College Choral Department, Dr. Robin A. Lind, director,  and Seraphim Chorus,  Kris Harper, director  — and four acclaimed soloists. Soprano  Charlene Canty and baritone Brian Keith Johnson, two of the area’s most famous singers, will be joined by two nationally acclaimed artists  —  mezzo-soprano  Stephanie Chigas and tenor Darren Anderson  —  who will make their area debuts.

Because the Requiem is a piece that Pavarotti loved deeply and sang often, Davenny Wyner feels it appropriate to tribute the Requiem to him. “Pavarotti was amazing in the emotion, sheer voice and passion that he brought to his singing. Because this piece is so powerful and grand in scale, it feels right for us to embrace our community in his honor.”

The performance begins at 8pm. Tickets may be purchased online at www.stambaughonline.com or by calling the Stambaugh Auditorium box office at 330-259-0555.

In accordance with the wishes of Henry H. Stambaugh, the mission of  Stambaugh Auditorium. is to present events for the enjoyment, entertainment and education of the people of Youngstown and the surrounding communities.

Choral Director Biographies
Don Megahan, Director, Stambaugh Chorus
Dr. Robin A. Lind, Director of Choral Music Activites, Westminster College
Kris Harper, Director, Seraphim Community Chorus

Choral Organization Profiles
Stambaugh Chorus
Seraphim Chorus
Westminster College and Choral Department