Almeda Berkey conducts the singers of Nebraska's Professional Chorale, Soli Deo Gloria Cantorum, in a beautiful sampling of music from different times and places in America. From Alice Parker's setting of New England's Wondrous Love to the Civil War's Tenting Tonight and the 19th Century's Amazing Grace, the Cantorum's rich vocal timbre soars. James Erb's gently rolling Shenandoah sets the stage for the African-American Spiritual Soon-ah Will Be Done by William Dawson. Then a jump to California for the rousing Sacramento-Sis Joe and back to the Midwest for Native American Phillip White Hawk's Hold On!

South Dakota Shadows opens with a beautiful love song that sets the stage for this extended choral

tone poem. Berkey weaves a tapestry of words and music ranging from the Scandinavian choral tradition: Indian Summer and Evening Shadows - to Jazz: Mercy Song - Country: Turkeys and Badger's - and chorus with piano quintet: Requiem for a Pioneer Mother. As an instrumental centerpiece, Boxing with Snowflakes evokes powerful feelings.

Almeda's sensitive, guiding spirit brings the Cantorum and The Cat's Meow (instrumental ensemble) to heights that surpass the hopes and aspirations of any composer. The corporate expression of the singers is far greater than any of its single parts and simply has to be heard to be fully appreciated!

"A fabulous recording! I just loved it, and was convinced again about this wonderful choir and the perfectly inspired arrangements."
Richard Westenburg, Musica Sacra,
New York City

"I was so engrossed with the music when I heard American Shadows on my car stereo that I almost ran off the road"
Leona Garvin, a listener to the First Art Radio Program

"To me, South Dakota Shadows hasbecome an important part of the literature of American Music. As it should. I can feel the heart in the music."
Steven Harper, Systems Analyst, Singapore

"American Shadows is a tapestry woven from a variety of styles including the Scandinavian classical tradition, jazz, country, and choral music."
NAIRD Notes