The highly talented Kammerstreicher String Chamber Orchestra and Castle Singers, both from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, have come together as part of a 21 day tour throughout Europe, performing in Eisenach, Prague, Vienna, Ljubljana, Split, Dubrovnik and London. Performance highlights will include American works by Gershwin, traditional spirituals and contemporary pieces by Toto’s ‘Africa’ and Sam Cook’s ‘What a Wonderful World’.
The name Kammerstreicher is a nod to Wartburg’s rich German heritage—Kammerstreicher means 'chamber string'—and also stems from a desire of the group to reshape expectations for what a chamber orchestra can be and do. Dr Rebecca Nederhiser is a passionate conductor, scholar, and oboist. In addition to Kammerstreicher, Nederhiser also leads the Wartburg Community Symphony and teaches music theory, oboe, and conducts at Wartburg College.
Under the direction of Dr. Nicki Bakko Toliver, Castle Singers are composed of advanced vocalists who are dedicated to exploring challenging choral literature. The Castle Singers travel extensively and previous international tours include countries throughout Western and Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, the Middle East, the Caribbean, Latin America, Australia and French Polynesia.
The choir and orchestra will be joined by guest soloist Dr Gabriel Forero, on the viola. Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Gabriel is an active solo, chamber, orchestral and baroque performer.