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History of the MadrigalsMadrigals is an important tradition to the Plainfield Central High School community. The Madrigal is one of the most enduring musical forms in all of history. During its early development in 16th Century Italy, the Madrigal found favor with the noble class. Lords and Ladies would perform these songs at banquets and other social events. All members of the English nobility were expected to have musical training and to be able to sing songs like these on sight.
The Plainfield Central Madrigals consist of costumed Singers and Ladies who perform Medieval and Renaissance music. Along with the vocal entertainment, a Jester, Wench, and Shakespearean Players amuse the audience with humor and medieval stories. The Madrigal dinners take place on the decorated stage of Plainfield Central's auditorium, and guests sit in a fairly intimate dinner setting. The Madrigal Singers are chosen by a very competitive audition from the Music Department. Auditions are held in the previous spring, and rehearsals being with a Madrigal Camp in August. Once school starts, they begin rehearsing in study halls and after school and evening rehearsals. Membership in all ensembles require a high level of commitment, as the activities meet exclusively outside of the curricular school day. |