Students of Florida Atlantic University’s choral and vocal studies
program will perform during an inaugural Madrigal Dinner at St.
Gregory’s Episcopal Church. Photo provided
By Deborah S. Hartz-Seeley
On Dec. 10, the ladies will sashay in velvet and satin gowns as the lords swagger in black velvet waistcoats and feathered caps.
These are students of Florida Atlantic University’s choral and vocal studies program who are participating in the inaugural Madrigal Dinner to benefit their school.
The Renaissance pageantry, festive food and musical entertainment will be offered to the public at St. Gregory’s Episcopal Church hall in Boca Raton.
“When I saw the room, I knew it was the perfect place for this intimate evening,” says Patricia Fleitas, who is director of FAU’s choral and voice studies. She is co-director of this event and hopes to make it an annual festivity.
The music at the dinner will be performed by 22 students who were invited to participate. They’ll be accompanied by a brass quartet.
Madrigal songs, usually written for four or five vocalists, are secular music that was popular in Italy during the 16th century. It was a counterpoint to the music being created for the Catholic Church.
“It can be very sensuous,” says Fleitas, who lives in Highland Beach.
The young people, ages 18 to their late 20s, made the commitment to remain on campus after finals in order to participate.
“They’ve been practicing and will work very hard to be at their best,” Fleitas says.
The evening will start with wine and cheese served outdoors on the church’s patio. Then the doors to the Great Hall will open, and trumpets will announce eight noble men and women in Renaissance costumes. After they take their places at the head table and all are seated, there will be a toast and “wassail song.” During the meal, minstrels and jesters with their pointed green, yellow and purple hats will entertain.
At meal’s end, a flaming pudding carried through the hall is sure to be a highlight — even if it’s a bread pudding instead of the traditional figgy creation.
Then the singers will offer a short concert of madrigal and seasonal songs before the final fanfare.
As the jesters bid farewell, the months of planning and practicing will come to an end. Until next year, of course.
“I am very excited. I hope this becomes a holiday tradition,” says Fleitas, who hopes next year’s attendees will wear period costumes like the students. Ú
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