Echoes of the Earth – A Remarkable Premiere

On Sunday, May 3, 2026, Deer Creek Chorale, Deer Creek Youth Choir and Goucher Choral Society were thrilled to present “Echoes of the Earth” at Kraushaar Auditorium. A pre-concert talk allowed concert goers to hear from a panel of artistic and academic experts and gain a richer understanding of the music and its meaning before the first note was heard. The concert itself featured spotlights on each of the groups as well as combined pieces. The highlight was the Mid-Atlantic Premiere of Missa Pro Terra – A Mass for the Earth. This timely piece focuses on environmental stewardship and climate change, issues that are incredibly important in today’s world. Missa Pro Terra was written by Canadian composer Paul Aitken, who traveled all the way from Nova Scotia with his wife MacKenzie, to experience the premiere in person. Dear friend of DCC, Paul Rardin, served as guest conductor for Missa Pro Terra and the concert finale, Homeland.

Here what one audience member had to say about Echoes of the Earth:
I particularly enjoyed the Missa Pro Terra – it was really moving. I loved the juxtaposition of the traditional mass choral setting with the words focusing on our responsibilities to the earth. It was also cool to see how the full chorus interacted with the children’s chorus throughout the piece, as well. It was a really special piece and I’m so glad I got to hear it live. 

This performance concluded the 2026-2027 season for Deer Creek Chorale. Stay tuned for information about our 20th season coming soon!