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Choral Classics - Sonoran Desert Chorale
The Chorale brings you world-renowned, beloved classics of the choral repertoire. Spanning almost three centuries, the works of Mozart, Schubert, Mendelssohn, Bruckner, Fauré, Ralph Vaughn Williams, Duruflé, and more delight the ear, touch the heart, and remind us that a “classic” is something that has been judged over a period of time to be of the highest quality and outstanding of its kind.
Choral Classics performances are set for Saturday, February 25, 2023 at 7:30 P.M. at First United Methodist Church, 15 E. First Avenue, Mesa and Sunday, February 26, 2023 at 3:00 P.M. at La Casa De Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale.
Single tickets are $25 for adults/$20 for seniors, students, and groups of 10 or more. Tickets may be purchased online at SonoranDesertChorale.org, by calling 480-305-4538, from members, or at the door. Student Rush tickets are available ten minutes before curtain with appropriate ID.
The concerts feature a spectrum of style and sound ranging from the rich, soulful melodic lines of Fauré’s In Paradisum to the driving rhythm and dynamic harmonies of William Averitt’s award-winning setting of Langston Hughes’ poem, Fire. Rachmaninoff’s sonorous Rejoice, O Virgin, from his All-Night Vigil, contrasts beautifully with Ralph Vaughn Williams’ O Clap Your Hands, a joyous choral and organ collaboration.
Familiar favorites include two pieces by Mozart. The beautiful motet, Ave Verum, is one of his most beloved works. The hymn has become best known through its sublime musical settings. None perhaps is more famous than Mozart’s, whose breathtaking, three-minute setting seems to elevate the Latin chant to divine status. The second featured work, written by the 20-year-old Mozart, is a contrapuntal masterpiece that unites polyphony with enthralling harmonic progressions. Misericordia Domini, accompanied by string ensemble, exemplifies the charm and spontaneity of the young composer.
More lighthearted works include Schubert’s Der Tanz and Poulenc’s Les Tisserands, both exhibiting folk-style exuberance. Mendelssohn, Duruflé, and more round out the concert selections.
Don’t miss these beautiful Choral Classics. Join the Chorale on February 25 and 26 for a musical journey across time, text, and genre. It will be a trip to remember.
Event Links
Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/1545711-0
Website: https://go.evvnt.com/1545711-2
