Declarations Providence

A landmark musical event for American's 250th Anniversary.

Ensemble Altera, one of today’s most compelling professional chamber choirs, presents the world premiere of Declarations, a major new choral work by Piers Connor Kennedy.

Spanning 75 minutes without intermission, Declarations is a bold and deeply human meditation on the Declaration of Independence—its creation, ideals, contradictions, and ongoing legacy. Drawing on a rich tapestry of texts, from Thomas Jefferson and Langston Hughes, to contemporary voices including Tracy K. Smith, dg nanouk okpik, and William Ashford, among others, the work refracts 250 years of history through a modern, emotionally powerful lens.

Rather than offering a single narrative, Declarations invites listeners into a space of reflection:

What does it mean to declare freedom?

Who has been included, and who has not?

And how do we carry these questions forward?

About Ensemble Altera

Praised for its “profound expression… guided by musicality and taste” and hailed by the BBC as “something extraordinary,” Ensemble Altera has quickly emerged as a leading voice in choral music. Under the direction of Christopher Lowrey, the ensemble is known for luminous, precise vocal blend, bold, imaginative programming, and performances that seek emotional clarity. Their recordings have earned international acclaim, including the German Record Critics’ Award, and their work reaches audiences worldwide through radio and streaming platforms.