Accord Treble Choir presents: Reverence & Resistance

On Saturday, May 30, 2026 Accord Choir will present the treble-voice world premiere of Rumor Mill, by Palestinian-Jordanian composer Shireen Abu-Khader, set to lyrics by Naomi Shihab Nye. In a richly layered a cappella work, the 8-voice piece quotes beloved Arabic melodies and evokes the tenacity of diasporan memory and longing. Shihab Nye and Abu-Khader will be present to speak about their work.

Accord will also sing Imaginary Garden, by Marie Claire-Saindon, a setting of poetry by Baha’i political prisoner Mahvash Sabet of Iran. At once aching and buoyant, the piece insists on hope amidst oppression. Another contemporary work, River, by Joan Szymko, explores the tension between inevitable change and necessary action.

The Reverence and Resistance concert also features music of praise, highlighting diverse musical expressions of faith and devotion. Andre Caplet’s Messe a Trois Voix, Ramona Luengen’s Salve Regina, and Fredrick Sixten’s Alleluia showcase rich harmonies and soaring melodic lines. Composer Cedrick Howoseb’s Muhona, in the Otjiherero language by way of Namibia, will transport listeners with joyful rhythms accompanied by djembe. Accord will also present the world premiere of David Douglas’ reimagined setting of the 13th century chant Pangat Melos as a harmonically complex polyphonic motet.

In their intensity, resilience, and purposeful power, reverence and resistance have much in common. Join Accord for this program that showcases how choral music can speak to the living issues of our time.

Audience members are invited to join us for a reception following the performance.