George Crumb's visionary The River of Life transforms familiar American hymns into a mesmerizing landscape of sound, featuring vocal soloists propelled by an astonishing array of over a hundred percussion instruments. The journey culminates in Carl Orff's bold and exhilarating Catulli Carmina, a rarely heard masterpiece for choir, four pianos, and percussion that is every bit as thrilling as its more famous companion, Carmina Burana. Daring and unlike anything else on our 2026-27 season, this concert celebrates Musica Viva NY's commitment to musical daring, inviting you to hear the familiar made entirely new.

George Crumb - American Songbook No. 1: The River of Life 

VIII. Nearer, My God, to Thee

I. Shall We Gather at the River?

VII. One More River to Cross

III. Amazing Grace!

IX. Deep River

Carl Orff - Catulli Carmina