In Buddhist thought, the Tree of Life is a symbol of awakening, wisdom, and the interconnectedness of all life. Its roots reach deep into the earth while its branches extend toward the sky, reminding us that each generation grows from those that came before and that our lives are shaped by the communities and traditions that sustain us.
Opening the PSU Choirs' concert season, "Tree of Life" explores these themes through music that spans continents and centuries. Performed by the PSU Chamber Choir, Rose Choir and Thorn Choir, the program pairs cherished works from the Classical choral tradition with music by a new generation of Southeast Asian composers. At its center is Indonesian composer Bagus Utomo's Gayatri, inspired by the legendary queen whose wisdom and spiritual devotion remain an enduring part of Indonesian cultural heritage. The concert also features works by Budi Susanto Yohanes, Ily Matthew Maniano and Matthew Lyon Hazzard. Several of these pieces will be recorded later this year by the internationally acclaimed PSU Chamber Choir at Skywalker Sound, offering audiences an opportunity to hear this music before it is released.
This concert will be performed twice: November 20 at 7:30 PM and Sunday, November 22 at 4:00 PM.
This Community Sing brings together PSU's Briar, University and Community choirs, for a magical winter celebration. They invite you to rejoice in the warmth of fellowship as the choirs present pieces from brilliant composers like B. E. Boykin, Eric Whitacre, Don MacDonold, Sweelinck and more! Join in the celebration of the Holiday Season with the PSU choirs.
The Portland State University Chamber Choir, described by Classics Today as “amongst the finest choirs in the world,” will perform at the Music @ Midday series. Join us for 50 minutes of our favorite selections, including Classical, Pop, and World Music.
View the concert livestream or recording.
Concert program available shortly before the concert.
The Music @ Midday Series is a weekly opportunity to experience the sounds of the PSU School of Music & Theater. Join us on Fridays during fall, winter, and spring terms for a diverse program of concerts featuring students, faculty, and special guests.
View the Music @ Midday Series page for all upcoming concerts.
Experience an evening of vibrant vocal music with The PSU Vocal Collective, featuring inventive arrangements of jazz and contemporary music for voices and rhythm section. Expect rich harmonies, unexpected textures, infectious grooves, and a fresh take on music you know and love.
This fall also marks the inaugural concert of The VocaLab, a new contemporary singing ensemble making its debut on the PSU stage. VocaLab will celebrate the sounds and spirit of Soul, Motown, and Rock & Roll, bringing powerful grooves and unforgettable songs to life through the voices of its singers.
Two ensembles. One stage. An evening full of rhythm, harmony, and the limitless possibilities of singing together.
Learn more about the School of Music & Theater Jazz area.