Texarkana Chorale to Premiere New 'Stabat Mater' Composition

The concert will feature the world debut of Marc-André Bougie's original piece.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Texarkana Regional Chorale will perform the world premiere of a new composition, 'Stabat Mater,' by conductor Marc-André Bougie on Tuesday evening at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. The concert is the chorale's largest event of the year and will feature close to 100 performers, including a professional orchestra and soloists.

Why it matters

The 'Stabat Mater' is a centuries-old Catholic prayer that meditates on the suffering of the Virgin Mary during Christ's crucifixion. Bougie's new musical interpretation of this dramatic text represents an important addition to the choral repertoire.

The details

Bougie began sketching themes for the 'Stabat Mater' in April 2024, and the finished work will be presented in a concert setting with singers and instrumentalists performing in front of the church's altar. The event is free to attend, with donations accepted, and will be followed by the chorale's annual Mardi Gras fundraiser.

  • The concert is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • Bougie began composing the 'Stabat Mater' in April 2024.

The players

Marc-André Bougie

The conductor of the Texarkana Regional Chorale who composed the new 'Stabat Mater' piece.

Texarkana Regional Chorale

A choral group in Texarkana, Texas that will be performing the world premiere of Bougie's 'Stabat Mater' composition.

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What they’re saying

“The text of the prayer is rather dramatic -- with the emphasis on the sorrow of Mary at the foot of the cross. Even though the end of the prayer offers glimpses of light and hope, the Stabat Mater is meant to be a meditation on the Passion of Christ and of its impact on the one who loved Him most, his mother.”

— Marc-André Bougie, Conductor (texarkanagazette.com)

What’s next

The Texarkana Regional Chorale's annual Mardi Gras fundraiser will follow the concert on Tuesday evening.

The takeaway

Bougie's new 'Stabat Mater' composition represents an important addition to the choral repertoire, bringing a fresh musical interpretation to this centuries-old Catholic prayer that meditates on the suffering of the Virgin Mary during Christ's crucifixion.