Voice of the Lake, an oratorio by Margaret Brouwer

Composer Margaret Brouwer is concerned about the environment. Cleveland’s Lake Erie is in trouble. There is a growing threat of toxic algae that is fed primarily through the run-off of fertilizer and manure from farms and yards. Whether the algae begins in rivers that feed into Lake Erie or begins in the lake itself, this extremely toxic algae is a growing concern for swimmers, fishing companies, resorts, and municipal water treatment plants that produce drinking water for 11 million people. Voice of the Lake, an Oratorio by Margaret Brouwer for Solo Voices, Choirs, and Instruments, tells this story.

In addition, there is another charged drama about the lake – a struggle over how to use the lake successfully for recreation, health and also commercial purposes. There are articles in the paper, public meetings and panel discussions debating all sides. The political struggle that went on for several years in public hearings between the U S Army Corps of Engineers and concerned citizens, environmentalists and their Congresswoman is also portrayed in Voice of the Lake.

We hope this musical vista of nature will help raise awareness about the pollution of Lake Erie and its need for protection by dramatizing the story through music.

This performance will be video recorded for future broadcast.