Videos

Melanie DeMore on working with VocalEssence

Composer, vocal activist and conductor Melanie DeMore talks about her deep connection with VocalEssence, a relationship which started in 2014, and the way in which the ensemble creates spaces for members of the community. DeMore’s piece “If I Were Bird” is featured on the ensemble’s new album, How to Hold On, and was written by DeMore to be nourishment for the soul in a chaotic world. It was also recorded exclusively at the flagship studios of Minnesota Public Radio in St. Paul earlier this year with conductor Philip Brunelle. Enjoy!

Find out more about the album!

“If I Were Bird”
Composed by Melanie DeMore
Performed by the VocalEssence Ensemble Singers led by Melanie DeMore
Recorded 2025, in the Maud Moon Weyerhaeuser studio at Minnesota Public Radio, St. Paul, Minnesota.
All rights reserved. Used with permission.

Lyrics:
”If I Were Bird, If I were sky
Then in a dream I’d surely fly
Beyond the sun, then to the moon
If I were bird

If I were whale, If I were sea
My song would sing eternity
From oceans deep to earthen core
If I were whale

If I were tree, If I were grove
My roots would grow throughout the world
Connecting all both far and wide
If I were tree”

—Melanie DeMore

Love the music?

Donate by phone
1-800-562-8440

Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.

Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.

YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.

More Ways to Give

Your Donation

$5/month
$10/month
$15/month
$20/month
$

Latest Videos Episodes

VIEW ALL EPISODES

Latest Videos Episodes

Behind the scenes with PT Young Artists: Claudia Diaz

Performance Today Young Artist in Residence Claudia Diaz says opera lets her feel deeply and connect with listeners. Here's a behind-the-scenes look at her performance video shoot at Minneapolis Historical Landmark, The Van Dusen Mansion.

The Bakken Ensemble - 'Fly Away Moon' by TJ Cole

The Bakken Ensemble joins host Tom Crann in the Maud Moon Weyerhaeuser Studio at Minnesota Public Radio’s headquarters in St. Paul to talk about its origins as a chamber group and its recent projects and commissions.

The Bakken Ensemble and friends visit MPR studios

The Bakken Ensemble joins host Tom Crann in the Maud Moon Weyerhaeuser Studio at Minnesota Public Radio’s headquarters in St. Paul to talk about its origins as a chamber group and its recent projects and commissions.

Discover the Secret Life of GTCYS

Watch as host Vernon Neal speaks to three members of GTCYS’ Symphony ensemble at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis about their instruments and experiences, as well as how GTCYS is helping shape their future.

Behind the scenes with PT Young Artists: Sean Terada Yang

Pianist Sean Terada Yang joins producer Meghann Oglesby to bring music to Pillars of Prospect Park Memory Care Residents in Minneapolis and takes a moment to rate the food at The Nook, a historic neighborhood pub and burger joint in St. Paul, Minnesota.

The Havana Quartet - 'Textura Vitral' by Wilma Alba Cal

The Havana Quartet joins host Vernon Neal in the Maud Moon Weyerhaeuser Studio at Minnesota Public Radio’s headquarters in St. Paul to talk about its origins in Cuba, its journey to Minnesota, and how the musicians’ Cuban roots show up in their lives as performers and teachers.

VIEW ALL EPISODES
YourClassical Radio
00:00
Infinity:NaN