In a celebration of classical music, the Department of Music at Valley City State University is set to host an evening dedicated to the works of two legendary composers. The faculty recital, titled House of Life, will feature performances by Dr. Stephen Cunningham and Dr. Ozzie Johnson, bringing to life the poignant art songs of Johannes Brahms and Ralph Vaughan Williams. This event promises to transport audiences into the emotional world of Romantic-era music through their exquisite interpretations.

An Evening of Artistic Expression

On Friday, March 28, the Larry J. Robinson Center for the Arts will serve as the venue for this remarkable performance. As night falls, the main performance hall will echo with melodies that delve into themes of love, loss, and reflection. Dr. Stephen Cunningham, a renowned bass-baritone, and Dr. Ozzie Johnson, a skilled pianist, will collaborate to present two significant song cycles from the Romantic period.

Ralph Vaughan Williams' "House of Life," inspired by Dante Gabriel Rossetti's poetry, explores the complexities of emotions surrounding love and heartbreak. Meanwhile, Johannes Brahms' "Four Serious Songs," composed toward the end of his life, reflect deeply personal reflections on mortality and spirituality. These compositions, rooted in biblical texts, provide profound insights into the composer's later years.

This special recital begins at 7:30 p.m., welcoming all music enthusiasts without charge. It offers an opportunity to experience firsthand the timeless beauty of classical art songs performed by talented musicians.

Attending such events provides not only entertainment but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of classical music. By listening to these masterpieces, one can connect with universal human experiences expressed through sound, transcending time and culture. Such evenings remind us why music remains an essential part of our lives, capable of stirring emotions and inspiring thought.