Madrigal Singers of Clarksburg

MISSION & HISTORY

The Madrigal Singers of Clarksburg are currently celebrating their sixty-third year of performing. Founded in 1938 by C. C. Arms of Clarksburg, the lively and entertaining singers present two seasons of music each year to audiences throughout West Virginia. The music is traditionally Elizabethan but the singers also perform compositions of other periods of music that complement the 16th century style. The members of the ensemble reside in North Central West Virginia and dedicate their time and talents to prepare concerts with accuracy and authenticity. Attired in silks, velvets and brocades, they bring to life the glittering age of Queen Elizabeth I through their unique performance style and professional quality sound. The Madrigal Singers are one of the longest existing community Renaissance music groups in the country not associated with or organized by a college or university. The Madrigals have traveled extensively in West Virginia and have represented the state through performances in other states including the Maryland Renaissance Festival.

Donald M. Gardner, Musical Director of the Madrigal Singers of Clarksburg, received a B.M.E. from West Virginia Wesleyan College and a Masters of Choral Music from Southern Methodist University. He has appeared as a chorister and soloist with the Larry Parsons Chorale, the Pittsburgh Renaissance Singers, Camerata Appalachia and the West Virginia Symphony. He has served as musical director for local productions of Amahl and the Night Visitors, Godspell and The Good News Review. Gardner has performed in local productions of "The Secret Garden" and "Damn Yankees". As a composer and arranger his works have been performed both in the United States and the United Kingdom. He is Director of Music and Children's Ministry at the First United Methodist Church in Clarksburg. Gardner has been a faculty member at Fairmont State College and interim conductor for the West Virginia Wesleyan Concert Chorale. He is a member of the Clarksburg-Harrison Cultural Foundation Board of Directors and present Treasurer of the Board of the West Virginia Choral Arts Foundation.