Local Singer Performs with Fort Worth Chorale
Nicole McKnight
Isaac Briggs, 25, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints from Keller, is set to perform with the Fort Worth Chorale for the upcoming 2023-2024 concert season. His affiliation with the Chorale began in 2022 when Artistic Director Dr. Karen Kenaston-French extended an invitation for Chorale auditions. After encouragement from a friend, Isaac decided to audition.
Isaac loves music. “I have been singing forever; I find so much joy in sharing my voice with others,” he remarks. At Keller High School, he was exposed to many styles of voice including chorale and theatre. Isaac continued exploring voice as a Music and Vocal Performance major at Brigham Young University Idaho, from which he graduated last year.
Isaac enjoyed auditioning for the non-profit Fort Worth Chorale, which puts on three or four seasonal concerts per year at various locations across the Fort Worth metropolitan area. He notes, “The choir consists of many music professionals, it’s awesome to learn from all of them.” The Fort Worth Chorale was founded over sixty years ago and is connected to the city through performances and collaborations with groups like the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra and Texas Ballet Theatre. “The mission of the group really resonated with me,” Isaac explained. “The Chorale is committed to inspiring diverse audiences and focuses on encouraging composers who come from difficult circumstances.”
During the 2022-2023 season, the Chorale had the privilege of being led by Guest Conductor Sean Kirchner, who conducted two of his original scores during the 60th anniversary of the Fort Worth Chorale. Isaac reflects on this experience, saying, “His interpretation of the score and what he brought out in the choir was amazing. It showed in people’s faces as they listened. You could see them smiling as we performed.” You can watch a video of the performance here.
Artistic Director Karen Kenaston–French brings energy to the choir. Through her efforts and connections as a professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, she continues to attract new talent to the program. Under her guidance, the Chorale thrives.
The Fort Worth Chorale’s next performance, titled “Sun, Moon, and Stars,” is scheduled for October 14th and 15th, promising an unforgettable musical experience for all in attendance. You can purchase tickets here.
