The Glow From That Fire' Premiere Set for April 30

The world premiere of "The Glow From That Fire," an original work composed by OBU professor James Vernon, is slated for Tuesday, April 30, at 7:30 p.m., in Raley Chapel's Potter Auditorium. The performance is free and open to the public.

The audience is invited to attend a 6:30 p.m. pre-concert lecture given by Dr. Vernon in Raley Chapel Room 203. Vernon will offer a synopsis of his work and the themes related to the piece.

The premiere is part of OBU's Oratorio Project concert, titled "Visions of Liberty," which also will feature "Let Thy Hand Be Strengthened" (Coronation Anthem for King George II, 1727) by Georg Frederic Handel and "Testament of Freedom" (with texts by Thomas Jefferson) by Randall Thompson.

The concert will feature several talents from across Oklahoma, including soloist Rebekah Ambrosini and narrator John Holcomb. The premiere also will showcase original artwork by OBU artists.

Vernon composed "The Glow From That Fire" for mixed chorus, alto soloist, narrator and orchestra. Premiering in the 50th anniversary year of John F. Kennedy's assassination, Vernon took as his impetus the January 1961 Inaugural Address Kennedy gave on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. Vernon will direct his original work during the concert.

"Let Thy Hand Be Strengthened" and "Testament of Freedom" will be directed by Dr. Brent Ballweg, who serves as the Burton H. Patterson Professor of Music in OBU's Warren M. Angell College of Fine Arts, where he conducts the University Chorale and Bison Glee Club.

For more information about OBU's Oratorio Project concert, "Visions of Liberty," including the world premiere of "The Glow From That Fire," contact the OBU Division of Music at (405) 585-4301 or music@okbu.edu.