KC VITAs Presents "The Fifth Century"

For the second concert series of their ninth season, KC VITAs will undertake \”The Fifth Century\” by Gavin Bryars. This monumental work for choir and saxophone quartet sets a text from the English poet and theologian Thomas Traherne’s Centuries of Meditations, taking lines from the last section, “The Fifth Century.” This large, multi-movement, highly spiritual work for choir and saxophone quartet provides audiences a unique sonic opportunity as the piece has only received a few performances globally. Created specifically for this event, the KCSQ (Kansas City Sax Quartet) will accompany the choir. This group, comprised of members of the Aero Quartet and Less Than 10 Chamber Ensemble, are recipients of numerous awards, including the Gold Medal at the 2021 Fischoff Chamber Music Competition. KCSQ includes Chad Lilley on Soprano Saxophone, Walt Puyear on Alto Saxophone, Matthew Koester on Tenor Saxophone, and Kyle Blake Jones on Baritone Saxophone. “The Fifth Century” will be conducted by KC VITAs’ Founder/Artistic Director, Jackson C. Thomas. A complimentary reception will take place following both concerts.