What better time for Americans to our raise voices for democracy than now, during this remarkable fall of 2016? After the battering we’ve all experienced during this season of political opposites, the 175 voices of the Mystic Chorale soar for renewal in OUR VOICES WILL BE HEARD: Songs of Protest and Hope.

The Mystic Chorale has long believed in the power of song and of people singing together to build a better world. This fall, despite all our differences, we celebrate our sharing of democratic values and active citizenship. Our concert presents songs of peace, of war, of patriotism, of protest, and of connection to the causes we live for, with selections ranging from Civil War hymns to more contemporary songs by Crosby, Stills & Nash, Joni Mitchell, Keb’ Mo’, Ysaye Barnwell, Pat Humphries, Nick Page and others.

Guitarist Gary Backstrom opens with Jimi Hendrix’s amazing version of The Star Spangled Banner, and the concert closes with Linda Brown San Martin and the Chorale singing a medley of civil rights anthems, including the powerful We Shall Not Be Moved. Pianist Ruth Roper, Mystic accompanist for 27 years, since the Chorale was founded by Nick Page, adds her special magic to this deeply affecting program.

As always in Mystic concerts, our audience will be part of the community, singing along (and maybe dancing!). Join us as we sing out for justice and struggle, freedom and hope!