Releasing an album is a momentous occasion.
It’s not less momentous if you’re releasing it on streaming-only…even though I miss unboxing those first CDs!
So I’m incredibly excited to welcome Camaraderie into the world on March 22. It’s the sixth Rockford Aces album, and it includes 13 tracks recorded over two ensemble years. It includes classical, contemporary pop, jazz, and most excitingly, the four-movement suite we commissioned from Anders Edenroth for our 15th anniversary. I’m incredibly proud of the entire project, of the 20-ish singers who appear on it, and of the way I’ve been able to create an educational opportunity with a lasting legacy. Camaraderie stands alongside the other five albums since 2010 as a testament to the possibilities available to high school students when given the opportunity.
In the words of Brimful, the third movement of A Camaraderie Ensemble Suite by Anders Edenroth, making music in a group like the Aces is:
Playful and beautiful,
hopeful and powerful.
We’re grateful for friendship
And music through the years.
Youthful and joyful,
Meaningful and wonderful
We’re grateful for everything
from cheers to tears.
Playful and beautiful.
Beautiful.