Downers Grove Choral Society Performs Bloch's Sacred Service

Ernest Bloch's Sacred Service is recognized as the master classical work of Jewish liturgical repertoire.

Sacred Service, composed during the early 1930s, is regarded not only as Bloch's greatest work but as the apex of Jewish religious music. Commissioned to write the work in 1929, Bloch soon became fascinated by the Hebrew service, and declared it to be the text for which his music had been waiting.

'Though intensely Jewish in its roots' he stated 'this message seems to me above all a gift of Israel to the whole of mankind...' The composer's intention to write a work capable of moving audiences of all faiths is achieved in this spiritual statement of extraordinary depth and beauty. Driven by the meaning of the text, the music ranges in tone: lyrical and quiet, to extroverted, dramatic, and upbeat.

The Sacred Service is performed with chorus, orchestra, and classically trained Cantor David Goldstein, Cantor for North Shore Congregation Israel in Glencoe.

Three of Handel's Coronation Anthems, written for George II, begin the program. All are based on Old Testament texts: "Zadok the Priest", "Let Thy Hand Be Strengthened", and "The King Shall Rejoice".

The orchestra will perform Bach's Orchestral Suite #2 in B Minor.

A rarely performed and challenging work, Bloch's Sacred Service requires the combination of a classically trained cantor, an excellent chorus, and a large orchestra. The unusual opportunity to hear this music is one that should not be missed.  

Sacred Service will be sung in Hebrew, and the Handel Anthems in English.

The Downers Grove Choral Society, now in its 52nd concert season, is well known for its presentations of outstanding choral programs in the western suburbs.

Tickets in advance are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, $5 for students, and children 13 and younger are free with an adult. All tickets are $2 higher at the door. Season tickets (20 percent discount) can be purchased if ordered before November 7. Contact 630-515-0030. Tickets may also be purchased at , or on line at www.dgcs.org.