Lux Aeterna
Mozart, Verdi, and Faure’s Requiems
Setting 1: March 20 & 21, 2026 - FULL
Setting 2: TBD - ADDING DUE TO HIGH DEMAND
Three Requiems. Three Cultures. Three Eras. One Text. Three Sounds. Join us as we explore how music can provide a foundation for remembrance, grieving, and celebration of life. Through this “Requiem Shootout”, we’ll look at how composers have taken the same Latin liturgical text and interpreted them completely differently - from the moody (and unfinished) Mozart to the operatic and intense Verdi and the angelic, peaceful Fauré. Together with prominent theological voices, we’ll study the meaning and purpose of this music and these rites, across cultures and eras.
Only limited seats remain. Contact us to inquire.
The Symposium Experience
A multi-day immersive retreat that will bring together a curated group of musicians, scholars, and seekers. Through shared listening, unhurried conversation, and time together around the “table”, we will explore the questions that matter - about the music, the meaning, and the human experience. Your participation includes:
6-8 roundtable discussions alongside distinguished scholars and featured guests, with time for reflection and connection
Exclusive live IN-HOME performance(s) to enhance the discussion
“Behind the Score” deep dive with select musicians
Symposium Reader and Listening Guide, mailed in advance
Communal meals and refreshments throughout the retreat, including a more formal group dinner to close the event
Details
Setting #2: Summer 2026 - CONTACT if interested!
Setting #1: March 20 & 21, 2026 - FULL!
Friday, March 20: afternoon/evening sessions from 3:00-9:00PM
Saturday, March 21: all-day from 9:00AM-3:00PM
Participation Fee:
We operate on a support model, with a suggested contribution amount that helps cover expenses and ensure we can build the best experience and community possible. We ask that you contribute what you are comfortable, and against how you valued the experience
Typically contributions range from $250-$750, and cover all the items on the left (entertainment/performers, meals, reading packet, student scholarships, etc.)
Students are always free
Contributions can be made in advance, during, or after the Symposium experience.
Featured Participants
Our symposiums are 100% group discussions, rather than lectures or Q&A/Panels. No one in the group holds more authority than another. However, we are excited to be able to bring in key subject matter experts, who have depth in understanding of various subjects. Your participation will put you in dialog and company with them!
Andrew Lewis: Andrew Lewis is artistic director of the choral group Bella Voce, who he has led for 20 years. Andrew has worked with the Chicago Symphony Chorus, Milwaukee Symphony Chorus, and conducted the Elgin Symphony Orchestra.
Allen Tinkham: Maestro Tinkham has been the artistic and music director for the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra’s flagship ensemble for over 25 years, where he has led the region’s most talented student ensemble musicians in performances around the world and on the biggest stages, from Vienna’s Musikverein to Chicago’s own Orchestra Hall - and even Lollapalooza.
James Setapen: Mr. Setapen is currently the Director of the Academy and Conductor-in-Residence at the Music Institute of Chicago. He has also conducted many orchestras and opera companies throughout the world, including those of Denver, Baltimore, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Orlando, Amarillo, and Honolulu.
Emily Soule (Soprano), Carmen Vizin (Alto), William Johnson (Tenor), Caden Cole (Bass), Codrut Birsan (Piano, music direction): our event will be graced with live performances from these wonderful professional singers!
