Since its start in 2007, the annual Baha’i House of Worship Choral Music Festival has attracted musicians and sacred music lovers from around the world. As many as 200 singers spend three days together, learning and rehearsing the a cappella choir parts. The festivals culminate with free, public performances, often for full audiences in the 1200-seat Baha’i House of Worship auditorium. Programs include classical liturgical music of the Baha’i Faith and other religions, as well as Gospel and multicultural selections.
The 2011 Baha’i Choral Music Festival will take place Thursday, May 26 though Sunday, May 29, 2011.
Free performances will be held at the Baha’i House of Worship on May 29, at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. (No reservations are taken or tickets distributed for the conerts. Arrive early to find parking and seating.)
New partcipants are welcome to join the choir and participate in the Festival!
The festival provides an opportunity for diverse singers to share their musical experiences, to learn from one another, to form fast friendships and to pray together. Many singers return year after year for the chance to raise their voices in praise in the rarified space under the dome of the temple.
There is still time to register for the four-day Festival and take advantage of the early bird discount of $140 per participant.* This includes all meals and transportation between the Hilton Orrington Hotel in Evanston (where most of the rehearsals are held) and the Baha’i House of Worship.* * Please note: charges are accepted on MASTERCARD or VISA only. All checks should be made out to BAHA’I SERVICES FUND. Participants may send money in any intervals that meet their needs up until the deadline.
To make a reservation at the Hilton Orrington and get the special rate of $95 for up to two people in a room, enter the code BAHAI after choosing your arrival and departure dates. Room shares with other Festival participants may also be available by contacting the Music Dept. at the House of Worship.
For more information about the Festival, please contact Raphael Kelling, Assistant to the Music Director, at 847-853-2337 or rkelling@usbnc.org, or Van Gilmer, Music Director, at 847-853-2330 or vgilmer@usbnc.org.
For more information about the Baha’i House of Worship Choir, you can now visit their new website!
*$140 if registered by March 18th, $150 if registered by May 6th, $160 if registered after May 7th.
** All meals and transportation are included, except breakfasts that are provided for those staying at the Hilton Orrington and the Thursday evening dinner.