I — The Prodigal

A remarkable conversion

Newton is a new oratorio telling the story of John Newton, the 18th-century prodigal and slaver who, after his dramatic conversion to Christianity, became a faithful pastor and outspoken abolitionist. Scored for chorus, orchestra, and soloists, the piece also highlights Newton's friendship with the poet William Cowper, who collaborated with Newton on the Olney Hymns. Along the way, you'll hear familiar hymns like "There Is a Fountain," "Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken," and of course "Amazing Grace."

Newton's rescue of a wretched sinner finds a modern echo in the life of Doug Ekbom—whose story gave birth to this work.