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In praise of Kilstofte’s ‘Invisible Angels’
Mark Frode Kilstofte, Department of Music.
A composition by Furman University Composer-in-Residence Mark Kilstofte, a professor of music, received its world premiere in mid-June at Duke University Chapel. Just weeks after the premiere of “Invisible Angels,” Kilstofte was named a finalist for the same piece in the Rocky Mountain Chamber Choir’s Call for Compositions competition.
In an email to Kilstofte, Clifford W. King, artistic director for the RMCC, wrote, “Your composition, ‘Invisible Angels’ impressed us with its creativity, depth and musicality, standing out among many remarkable entries. Your work was particularly noteworthy, and we are grateful for the effort and passion you put into your piece.”
“Invisible Angels,” is Kilstofte’s setting of Rainer Maria Rilke’s “Klage.” The composition represents the third and latest in Kilstofte’s series of Rilke settings.
RMCC plans to share Kilstofte’s achievement with its community and highlight the work on the choir’s social media platforms. “Invisible Angels,” performed by the Vocal Arts Ensemble of Durham under the direction of Rodney Wynkoop, can be heard on YouTube.
Kilstofte holds a bachelor’s from St. Olaf College and a master’s and doctorate from the University of Michigan.