Current Season Concerts
Hail to the Lamb: Songs of Shepherds and Sheep
January 30, 2026 at 7:30 PM
St. Mary Church, 15 Clark St, Auburn, NY
January 31, 2026 at 7:30 pm
St. Anne Church, 1600 Mt. Hope Ave.
Step into the world of the Renaissance, where the timeless imagery of shepherds and sheep inspired the greatest composers of the sacred age.
Join us for an immersive musical journey through the Biblical narrative. From the terrifying glory of the Angel’s message to the quiet awe of the manger, this concert brings centuries of history to life through the ethereal beauty of Renaissance polyphony.
Experience the evolution of chant and song—from the joyous "Noe!" of Christmas morning to the profound "Agnus Dei" pleading for peace. Don't miss this chance to hear these ancient texts as they were meant to be heard: soaring, sacred, and transformative.
We hope you will join us for this musical odyssey on Friday, January 30 (Auburn NY) or Saturday, January 31 (Rochester NY). Admission is by Free Will offering: Suggested donation $10
Passio Domini: Music of Passiontide
Friday, April 3, 2026 7:30 PM St. Anne Church, 1600 Mr. Hope Ave, Rochester, NY
The program features emotionally expressive sung works by Renaissance composers, including Palestrina, Victoria, and Gesualdo, as well as somber music by Francis Poulenc. Organ selections include compositions by Byrd, Pachelbel, Buxtehude and more.
The concert ends with the sanctuary enveloped in darkness. Everyone is asked to depart the sanctuary in silence in observance of the solemnity of the day.
Attendees will be able to give a free will offering at the event (suggested donation $10), and all proceeds will benefit St. Anne’s music program.
Music of Hope: Musica Spei Celebrates 30 Years
Friday, May 29, 2026 at 7:30 pm
St. Mary Church, 15 Clark St, Auburn, NY
Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 7:30 pm
St. Anne Church, 1600 Mt. Hope Ave, Rochester, NY
Since 1996, Musica Spei has been a sanctuary for those seeking the profound beauty of sacred Renaissance music. This season, we invite you to join us for a landmark anniversary concert that honors our past while ushering in the future of the choral tradition.
In a special tribute to our roots, this performance will feature cornerstone pieces from our very first season three decades ago. These timeless works serve as the foundation for an evening that culminates in a historic moment: the world premiere of a new work by composer and former member, Jonathan Madden.
Written in the classic Renaissance style, Madden’s new composition brings the stirring text of Romans 15:13 to life, perfectly capturing the spirit of "hope" that has defined our ensemble since its inception.
Join us as we blend the old with the new, celebrating thirty years of harmony and looking forward to the vast repertoire yet to be explored.