The Poet's Prism

Nature often says it best and, over the centuries, poets have borrowed images of nature to express ideas about life and love.  In its upcoming concerts, Cantemus Chamber Chorus will reveal “The Poet’s Prism” – a program of choral works that use poetic nature metaphors as texts.  Performances will take place on Saturday, April 29 at 7:30 p.m. at First Parish Church Unitarian Universalist Church, 225 Cabot St. in Beverly and Sunday, April 30 at 4:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 166 High St. in Newburyport.  Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at http://www.cantemus.org/tickets . In an evocative multi-cultural program, Cantemus will perform compositions from across 200 years, three continents, and five languages — an exciting study in contrasts and a celebration of the human spirit. The concert begins with Robert Schumann’s “Zigeunerleben” and continues with selections from  Morten Lauridsen’s “Chansons des Roses,” settings of sensual love poetry by Rainer Maria Rilke.  From Argentinian composer Carlos Guastavino come songs from “Indianas” employing Argentinian folk songs and dance forms forbidden in the 1960s by the fascist regime.  The concert’s centerpiece, “Sügismaastikud,” by Estonian composer Veljo Tormis, draws from natural landscapes to express dissent against the Soviet occupation of Estonia.  The program also includes Carly Simon’s call for social change in “Let the River Run,” and more.