Areté Vocal Ensemble, conducted by Dr. Wyant Morton, Professor of Music at California Lutheran University, is an innovative professional ensemble of vocal artists in Thousand Oaks, California. Its 16th season begins with a concert featuring American Triptych by Emmy Award-winning composer Jake Runestad, based on the writings of Henry David Thoreau (Massachusetts), Wendell Berry (Kentucky), and John Muir (California). Each of the three movements expresses various aspects of the human connection with the natural world. In addition to the Runestad work, solo performances of personally curated nature-themed songs from ensemble members round out the program.

"Like Jake Runestad, I believe that music has the power to initiate positive change,” says Dr. Morton, “His musical works are socially conscious and explore authentic human emotions and experiences. With a passion for live performance, Areté strives to honor the works of contemporary composers and provide a joyful, moving, educational, and soul-nurturing experience."

The concert is on Sunday, November 10th at 2 PM in Samuelson Chapel, California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks. $20 advance purchase tickets are available online at aretevocalensemble.org and $25 at the door.

Upcoming performances: Christmas with Areté: Handel’s Messiah (Christmas portion) December 15th, 2 PM, Samuelson Chapel. Dr. Morton will conduct.

For more information: aretevocalensemble.org