Ensemble VIII opens its sixth season with “Te Deum Laudamus! Songs of Praise and Celebration,”  to be presented on two consecutive evenings: Thurs., Oct. 13, at Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church and Fri., Oct. 14, at St. Louis Catholic Church Chapel. Both concerts begin at 7:30 p.m.

The ancient hymn Te Deum Laudamus provides the perfect theme to express our enthusiasm about this year of exciting concerts. Written in the 4th century, the Te Deum text has inspired composers to write some of the most brilliant works over the last 600 years. This concert features John Sheppard’s magnificent Te Deum setting, as well as a host of other inspiring and uplifting celebratory works.