Aperi Will Open 10th Season With Mars Smith Duo

The vocal ensemble kicks off its milestone year in Milwaukee on October 18, 2026.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Classical

Graphic illustration of intertwined musical stave lines and abstract flute shapes in navy and gold, representing a classical ensemble season launch. — The Aperi vocal ensemble will launch its 10th anniversary season on October 18, 2026, in Milwaukee, featuring a collaborative performance with the Mars Smith Duo. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The vocal ensemble Aperi will begin its 10th season on October 18, 2026, featuring a collaboration with the Grammy-recognized Mars Smith Duo. The performance serves as the launch for the ensemble's new season theme, Vita Communis, which centers on the concept of fellowship.

Why it matters

The season marks a significant rebranding for the group, formerly known as Aperi Animam, as it shifts its focus toward rebalancing musical priorities. This milestone season aims to explore the theme of Life Together through a diverse repertoire.

The 70-minute program includes works spanning from traditional plainchant to 21st-century compositions. The event marks the start of the ensemble's 10th season under the leadership of artistic director Paul Thompson.

The players

Aperi

This Milwaukee-based vocal ensemble recently rebranded from Aperi Animam to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

Paul Thompson

He serves as the artistic director of the ensemble and is guiding the group through its 10th anniversary season.

Mars Smith Duo

This musical partnership features flautist Daniela Mars and pianist Paul Smith, a Grammy winner and founder of VOCES8.

The details

The concert features the Mars Smith Duo, comprised of flautist Daniela Mars and pianist Paul Smith, and will include guest performances by the Bradford High School and Rufus King High School choirs. The performance is structured as a continuous 70-minute set without an intermission to maintain the thematic focus on fellowship.

Aperi opens its season with the Mars Smith Duo on October 18, 2026.
A student workshop in the Kenosha Unified School District occurs October 19, 2026.
A student workshop in Milwaukee Public Schools takes place October 20, 2026.

Industry Dynamics

The ensemble is following a model of community and student engagement set by the VOCES8 Foundation's global music outreach program. By integrating school choirs and hosting workshops, the group mirrors a growing industry trend toward deep-rooted educational partnerships.

Local audiences can attend the 70-minute concert on October 18, 2026, which features a continuous program without intermission. Additionally, students within the Kenosha Unified and Milwaukee Public School districts will have access to direct workshops with the featured performers.

The takeaway

The transition to a shorter, intermission-free format highlights a shift toward more intimate, focused performance experiences. Attendees can expect a diverse blend of historical and modern works that emphasize communal listening.