By Trevor Anderson
Wofford College is preparing for the revival of a free chamber music series aiming to attract top performers from around the world to Spartanburg.
The Benjamin B. Dunlap Chamber Music Series will return at 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 11, in Main Building’s Leonard Auditorium, featuring The Tallis Scholars, a professional British early music vocal ensemble. The group will perform “While Shepherds Watched,” an exploration of the Biblical Christmas story as viewed through the eyes of the shepherds who journeyed to worship at the manger. It will offer the audience an immersive experience resonating with the essence of this timeless tale while delving into the rich musical tapestry of the Renaissance era.
Admission is free, but reservations are required. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m.
“As an admirer of The Tallis Scholars, I am thrilled to welcome them to Wofford College for the Benjamin B. Dunlap Chamber Music Series,” says Dr. Aaron Harp, assistant professor of music at Wofford College and the event’s planner.
“Their unparalleled expertise will deliver a transcendent musical experience for our audience, and I am eagerly anticipating the cultural enrichment this event will bring to our community,” he adds. “I can’t imagine a more fitting tribute to the series and its commitment to showcasing exceptional musical talent across the globe.”
Wofford last hosted the music series in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic. The series was founded in 2005. In 2014, it was named in honor of Dr. Benjamin B. “Bernie” Dunlap, president emeritus of Wofford, who retired in 2013.
“Bringing The Tallis Scholars to Wofford is remarkable,” Dunlap says. “As someone familiar with their artistry, I am delighted by the caliber of this ensemble gracing our series.”
Dunlap explains that music plays a pivotal role in liberal arts education and looks forward to celebrating with faculty, staff, students and the community.
“I hope the resources for this series will continue to flourish, enabling Wofford to sustain such enriching performances,” he says.
Harp says that while searching for performers to headline the series’ reboot, he learned that The Tallis Scholars would be traveling along the East Coast, so he invited them. The group was founded in 1973 by their director, Peter Phillips. They have earned numerous awards and performed more than 2,500 concerts worldwide.
For more information, visit wofford.edu/chambermusic.