TCC Chorus Uses Music to Take a Stand: Spring Concert to Feature Powerful, Contemporary Works

The Tidewater Community College (TCC) Chorus is presenting its spring concert, “Taking a Stand: Powerful Music of Our Time,” on Tuesday, April 22 at 7 p.m., at First Lutheran Church, 1301 Colley Avenue in Norfolk. The event is free and open to the public and will feature a special guest performance by the Deep Creek High School Chorus.

The evening will showcase 15 contemporary choral pieces centered around themes of social justice, gun violence, revolution, and conflict resolution; balanced by uplifting songs of hope and unity. The chorus seeks not only to entertain, but also to inspire conversations around important social issues through the universal language of music.

“This theme is my favorite one yet,” said TCC Chorus Director Martha Springstead, “The social justice impact is what makes this concert stand out. Artists need to be empowered to speak out, and this is a way we can do that. This is their art and expression. We know that everyone doesn’t always agree with everything that is sung, but this is our means of expression.”

The TCC Chorus currently consists of 28 dedicated singers, including students from all academic disciplines, as well as alumni who have returned to participate. While many members of the ensemble are music majors, particularly instrumental majors, others join simply for the love of singing. Some participate for academic credit, while others are there purely out of passion.

As part of their thoughtful approach to music selection, the chorus delves deeply into the meaning behind each piece. They often go a step further, reaching out and connecting directly with composers to better understand the messages and intentions behind the works, ensuring a performance that is both authentic and impactful.

The Deep Creek High School Chorus, this spring’s featured guest, will perform two selections on their own and will also join the TCC Chorus for a collaborative piece during the concert. Every fall and spring concert by the TCC Chorus includes a special guest ensemble, adding variety and collaboration to their seasonal performances.

Join the TCC Chorus and their guests on April 22 for a night of moving music, meaningful messages, and the power of performance to inspire change.