John Rutter, photo courtesy VocalEssence

VocalEssence will start with a celebration of Finland's centennial -- then perform bluegrass, Bach and music inspired by the Harlem Renaissance as part of its diverse 2017-18 season announced this week.

The Minneapolis-based choral organization's 49th season includes:

Finlandia Forever: Music by Sibelius, Saariacho and others. The Minnesota Orchestra's Osmo Vanska will be there, too. Sept. 24.

Bach and Bluegrass Jamboree: The choir will perform J.S. Bach, plus more recent tunes, with the help of local bluegrass group Monroe Crossing. Nov 10.

Of Such I Dream: VocalEssence's Witness program presents a tribute to the Harlem Renaissance with song, poetry and hip-hop, including the world premiere of "I Trust Harlem Is Still There," a chamber symphony by William Banfield, which was inspired by the letters of Langston Hughes. Feb. 18.

John Rutter: The dean of English choral music returns for "Feel the Spirit," some of his spiritual arrangements for chorus and chamber orchestra. April 21.

For more information on the new VocalEssence's season, including its popular holiday concerts, visit vocalessence.org