The Oriana Singers continue its 45th anniversary season with a choral performance of “Music of “Heaven & Hell on Earth” at two new local venues.
Led by founder and artistic director Bill Chin, the group will perform at United Lutheran Church in Oak Park on March 15 and at Bohemian National Cemetery in Chicago on March 16.
The eight-voice ensemble will showcase a variety of musical genres, performing both accompanied and a cappella works.
The show will explore life’s heavenly and hellish experiences through an arranged program featuring works by Vienna Teng, Philip Glass and Meredith Monk. The Oriana Singers are also celebrating its 45th season.
“We’ve weathered the storms of the pandemic and the constant struggle to be an arts organization in a culture that doesn’t always prioritize the arts. It’s really notable that we are still here,” Chin said.
When asked what he hoped audiences would feel or reflect on after experiencing the program, Chin said that he primarily hopes the audience would leave the show reflecting on the contrasts between what is good and bad and the idea of heaven on earth versus its opposite.
“My hope is always that I’m performing music I’m excited about and can share that excitement with others and get them interested in it,” Chin said.
In terms of the setting for the performance, the Bohemian National Cemetery holds a particular significance for Chin, who first visited many years ago and was struck by its unique atmosphere. While the cemetery resembles a traditional burial ground in many ways, it is also home to the columbarium, a structure that serves as both a crematorium and a resting place for ashes.
The columbarium at the Bohemian National Cemetery consists of hallways lined with niches, each containing the ashes of loved ones along with photos and mementos, offering a deeply personal tribute to those who have passed. At the heart of the building is the grand Ceremony Hall, an ornate, domed space known for its remarkable acoustics and historical significance.
“It’s a place that has been used for performances and it plays into the idea of heaven and hell,” Chin said. “If you believe in an afterlife and that you’re going to one place or the other, it kind of makes sense.”
Chin’s approach to curating concerts has evolved significantly over time. In his early years, shortly after college, he focused on learning the craft of directing a chorus, drawing on his own experience as a singer. As he gained more experience, he began exploring new directions, eventually transitioning from conducting larger groups to a smaller ensemble of six highly skilled singers.
“Over time, I’ve increasingly focused on music that fits within that ensemble size –you know, six singers with a specific voicing. This concert will feature eight singers, which may not seem like a significant change, but it opens up many new possibilities in terms of repertoire,” Chin said.
For “Music of Heaven & Hell on Earth,” Chin believes that incorporating both a cappella and accompanied works enhances the concert experience, as a cappella music is rare for many listeners, making the performance feel unique and unexpected.
“Some pieces may feel familiar but are presented in an unfamiliar way. Additionally, the use of instruments – primarily keyboards rather than a full orchestra – adds another layer to the performance while maintaining the intimacy of a small ensemble,” Chin said.
He added: “These pieces are chosen not simply because they include accompaniment but because they align with the overall vision. The goal is to stay true to the group’s signature style while also shaping the program in a meaningful way.”
Tickets are $35 for general admission, $30 for seniors over 65 and free for students. To purchase a ticket, click here