Musicorum was founded in 1995 by Dr. David Taylor, who previously had been a music professor before earning his law degree and practicing law in Mankato. Dr. Taylor also served as Musicorum's first music director, from 1995 to 1999. Musicorum became well known for its December performances of holiday choral music in Mankato's Good Counsel Chapel, with a distinct emphasis on medieval and Renaissance era music. Two of these performances are available on CD or cassette. In March 1999, Musicorum was joined by Lyra Concert, the Twin Cities' original-instruments ensemble, for two choral-orchestral performances that included the area premiere of Gregorio Allegri's famous Renaissance work Miserere Mei, Deus. This performance is also available on CD or cassette.
In 1999, Dr. Taylor moved to Washington D.C. to become an attorney for the Commodities Futures Trading Commission, a federal agency. From 2000 to 2007, Dr. Gregory Aune served as Musicorum's second music director. The ensemble in 2009 was directed by Andrew Miller, an accomplished arranger and conductor. The ensemble is currently directed by Dr. Karen Boubel, Professor of Music at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Today the ensemble has about 18 singers. Though Musicorum concerts still feature some Renaissance music, the group now performs many outstanding 20th-century choral works. Musicorum holds its winter concerts each December, with spring performances each April or May. Musicorum enters this season committed to the mission that animated its founding: to bring outstanding performances of high-quality music to Southern Minnesota audiences.
Musicorum Performers 2011-2012 |
