Elmhurst Choral Union and Orchestra of the Macabre present ‘An Afternoon of the Macabre’ July 13

On Sunday, July 13, works of “the macabre” by versatile IIlinois composer Michael Karasis will be featured in a musical collaboration with the Elmhurst Choral Union, performing “Frankenstein,” his oratorio for chorus and orchestra.

Also on the program will be “Prometheus,” his overture for orchestra, and the premiere of “The Raven,“ a tone poem based on Edgar Allen Poe’s classic. The pieces will be played by the Orchestra of the Macabre.

The concert will take place at 3 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center of Harper College, 1200 W. Algonquin Road, Building R in Palatine. The concert hall is handicapped accessible; ample parking available.

General admission tickets are $25 or $23 for seniors. Purchase tickets through the college box office, online at www.harpercollege.edu/boxoffice, or by phone at (847) 925-6100.

Of the program’s unusual theme, Karasis says: “The macabre, and the supernatural have been a fascination to people throughout the centuries. As a result, I have produced a concert trilogy of three musical works that explore this subject of people’s fascination: Prometheus, the god of fire, The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe, and the Mary Shelley classic, Frankenstein. A musical afternoon of intrigue.”

Karasis is a composer and violinist whose extensive musical resume over three decades includes compositions that range from large-scale works: classical symphonies, concerti for stringed instruments and piano, to orchestral suites, string quartets, sonatas, and chamber pieces, narrated works, tone poems, and full oratorios.

Karasis’ works have been performed by some of the finest area orchestras, ensembles and conductors. His connection to Harper Community Orchestra is particularly special, as the ensemble has performed several of his works in recent years, under the direction of the late conductor Tony Porter.

Since 1952, the Elmhurst Choral Union has been a proud member of the Elmhurst community. A 60-plus member chorus performs with the mission to create outstanding choral performances for the community to appreciate and enjoy. The group is led by artistic director Scott Uddenberg, leading the chorus, professional orchestra, and soloists in choral orchestral works in two signature concerts each year. More information can be found at elmhurstchoralunion.org or on social media @elmhurstsings.