At times haunting, serene, enchanting, and mesmerizing, this sublime work relies exclusively on a living, breathing instrument - the choir - to captivate listeners with glorious expressions of soul-stirring awe.  Widely praised as Rachmaninoff's greatest achievement, and often referred to simply as Vespers Mass, much of the work is based upon music utilized during special Orthodox services occurring between sunset and sunrise.  Combining unaccompanied sacred texts with stirring melodies and rich bass line, this fifteen-movement choral symphony draws on several forms of ancient chant, sung prayers, psalms, and hymns from the Russian Orthodox Church.  One of his favorite compositions, Rachmaninoff requested the fifth movement be performed at his funeral.  You will be transfixed as the rich harmonious sounds of 100 voices envelop you in their embrace.  For tickets, please call the ECC box office at 847 622 0300, open Monday - Friday noon to 7pm, Friday & Saturday noon to 5pm.