MacMillan’s “Fiat Lux” Receives Long-Awaited World Premiere with Pacific Symphony and Pacific Chorale Led by Carl St.Clair June 2, 2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Photos: https://bit.ly/psepk_cathedralsofsound Press Contacts: Pacific Symphony: Jean Oelrich joelrich@pacificsymphony.org Mobile: (747) 220-7645 Pacific Chorale: Libby Huebner Libbyhuebner562@gmail.com Mobile: (562) 208-7993 MACMILLAN’S FIAT LUX RECEIVES LONG-AWAITED WORLD PREMIERE WITH PACIFIC SYMPHONY AND PACIFIC CHORALE LED BY CARL ST.CLAIR “Cathedrals of Sound” Program (June 15-17) Also Includes Allegri’s Miserere mei, Deus and
Continue ReadingHighlights: 2023 Gala, A Night In Salzburg May 24, 2023
Immediately following Pacific Chorale’s season finale was our 2023 Gala at the Avenue of the Arts Hotel in Costa Mesa. It was truly a joy to be able to celebrate the close of our season, the lifetime accomplishments of Richard Stein, and our biggest fundraising night of the year. Because of the incredible generosity of our
Continue ReadingHighlights: Haydn + Price May 23, 2023
On May 20, 2023, Pacific Chorale graced the stage at Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall for our final concert of the 2023-24 Season. Robert Istad conducted the Chorale, along with Pacific Symphony and guest soloists Aundi Marie Moore and Michael Sumuel, in the West Coast Premiere of Florence Price’s choral-orchestral version of Abraham Lincoln
Continue ReadingSpotlight on Haydn’s “Nelson Mass” May 8, 2023
Music in Troubled Times The summer of 1798 was a bleak one at the court of Prince Nicholas Esterházy. The year before, the invading French army under Napoleon Bonaparte had pushed north from Italy into Austria and threatened Vienna itself, the capital of the Holy Roman Empire. Bonaparte’s implacable campaign had eventually forced the Emperor
Continue ReadingFlorence Price: Breaking barriers of race and gender in classical music April 9, 2023
Ninety years ago, American composer Florence Price made history, breaking through barriers of race and gender. But after her death, her work was half forgotten, much of it nearly lost to the ages, until sheer chance brought it back to light. A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, Price (née Florence Beatrice Smith) was born in
Continue ReadingGuest Soprano, Aundi Marie Moore March 22, 2023
American soprano Aundi Marie Moore was recently announced as the 2023 Honoree of the Sphinx Award for Excellence, an acknowledgement of her artistic achievements, her work ethic and her spirit of determination. She quickly established herself as an exceptional talent with her recent appearance as Strawberry Woman in the Metropolitan Opera’s new production of
Continue ReadingGuest Bass-Baritone, Michael Sumuel
American bass-baritone Michael Sumuel, lauded as having “vocals that are smooth and ingratiating” (Daily Camera), will return to the Metropolitan Opera in the 22/23 season, singing Belcore in L’Elisir D’amore. Other debuts include the Father in Blue with English National Opera, Elviro in Xerxes with Detroit Opera, and Figaro in Le nozze di Figaro with Pittsburgh Opera. In concert, Mr. Sumuel
Continue ReadingMore about the Vespers of 1610 February 24, 2023
Who was Monteverdi? The Italian composer Claudio Monteverdi (1567-1643) is one of music history’s great transitional figures, bridging the gap between the Renaissance and the Baroque. In his Vespers, he set out to demonstrate his mastery of both the older style of composition, centered on the technique of cantus firmus, with Gregorian chant providing a
Continue ReadingPacific Chorale Welcomes New Director of Development, Thelma Valenzuela February 23, 2023
Pacific Chorale is delighted to welcome Thelma Valenzuela to our Development team! Thelma is an experienced nonprofit development professional with a passion for music and the arts. She previously held positions at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles, and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Los Angeles (spcaLA), and is excited
Continue ReadingPress Release: Pacific Chorale Embarks on First International Tour in Seven Years in July 2023 February 16, 2023
DOWNLOAD PHOTOS HERE: https://tinyurl.com/PacificChorale Press Contact: Libby Huebner, libbyhuebner562@gmail.com, 562.799.6055 Grammy-Winning Pacific Chorale, Led by Artistic Director Robert Istad, Embarks on First International Tour in Seven Years with Appearances in Austria, Germany and the United Kingdom July 12-24, 2023 Chorus, Joined by Soloists Aundi Marie Moore, Soprano, and Michael Sumuel, Bass-Baritone, to Perform with Freies
Continue ReadingPress Release: Grammy-Winning Pacific Chorale Announces Auditions in Orange County January 5, 2023
Press Contact: Libby Huebner, libbyhuebner562@gmail.com, 562.799.6055 Deadline for Online Applications Is 5 pm on January 25, 2023 with Auditions Scheduled in February on a First-Applied, First-Served Basis COSTA MESA, CA (January 4, 2023) – The Grammy Award-winning Pacific Chorale, led by Artistic Director Robert Istad, is holding auditions for singers in the
Continue ReadingHighlights: Opening Night Concert & Reception October 31, 2022
Pacific Chorale opened our 55th season with a very special program in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa on October 15, 2022. Beginning with an angelic sounding Duruflé’s Requiem, and closing with a stimulating work of Hagen’s The Notebooks of Leonardo Da Vinci, Artistic Director Robert
Continue ReadingPacific Chorale Performs at OCMA’s Grand Opening October 11, 2022
On October 8, 2022, Pacific Chorale had the pleasure of performing two pieces for Orange County Museum of Art’s 24-hour grand opening in their beautiful new permanent home! At 6 PM we performed Skyscape An aleatoric free form/change choir work performed on the Sky Bridges connecting us to the sky. A free-form piece performed
Continue ReadingPacific Chorale Welcomes New Teaching Artist, Zoe Hyunjin Kwak October 6, 2022
Pacific Chorale is delighted to welcome a new teaching artist, Zoe Hyunjin Kwak. Zoe came from South Korea to do her masters in choral conducting at University of Louisville, then went on to U. of Kentucky to do her DMA. She is now the Music Director at Young Nak Church in L.A. An excellent musician
Continue ReadingPacific Chorale Mourns Loss of Emeritus Board Member and Long Time Chorister, Vina Williams October 1, 2022
On behalf of everyone at Pacific Chorale, we are deeply saddened to share the news that Emeritus Board member Vina Williams passed away in the early hours September 27, 2022. Vina has been a stalwart member of the Pacific Chorale family since 1969. She was a frequent featured soprano soloist, a Board member for
Continue ReadingAbout Hagen’s “The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci” September 21, 2022
| Program Notes by composer Jocelyn Hagen Rivers of ink have been dedicated to the study of the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci. His genius has been articulated by scholars, historians, artists, engineers, and scientists for centuries, and the legacy of his work will continue to endure the test of time because of
Continue ReadingPacific Chorale’s Response to Pacific Symphony News of Carl St.Clair’s Two-Year Contract Extension September 20, 2022
On Sept. 19, 2022, Pacific Symphony announced that Music Director Carl St.Clair and Pacific Symphony’s Board of Directors have come to agreement on a two-year extension of his contract for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons, with an option for additional extensions. The new agreement reaffirms his commitment to Pacific Symphony, its musicians, and to
Continue ReadingPacific Chorale WINS 2 San Francisco Classical Voice Audience Choice Awards! August 24, 2022
The San Francisco Classical Voice Audience Choice Awards for 2021-22 were just announced and Pacific Chorale has received 2 of the coveted honors for: Best Choral Performance: Pacific Chorale, “Songs of the Soul” Pacific Chorale was on comfortably contemporary ground for this March 2022 program, which combined a modernist masterpiece, Frank Martin’s Mass for
Continue ReadingHighlights: Pacific Chorale’s Choral Festival 2022 August 16, 2022
After a three-day intensive rehearsal schedule with Artistic Director Robert Istad, Pacific Chorale’s Festival Chorus performed in a free concert at Renee & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa on Sunday, August 14, 2022. Dedicated to our beloved friend, Southern California composer Morten Lauridsen, the program featured a
Continue ReadingHighlights from the Concert of Healing at Laguna Woods Church August 4, 2022
Yesterday evening, members of Pacific Symphony and Pacific Chorale came together for a concert of healing at Geneva Presbyterian Church – Laguna Woods. The Rev. Dr. Steven Marsh from Geneva Presbyterian Church and the Rev. Dr. Albany Lee from Irvine Taiwanese Presbyterian Church offered words of comfort and hope. “There are so many ripples that
Continue ReadingPacific Symphony and Pacific Chorale Offer A “Concert For Healing,” August 3 At 6 P.M. at Geneva Presbyterian Church in Laguna Woods July 25, 2022
Orange County, Calif. July 25, 2022—Pacific Symphony and the Pacific Chorale will present a “Concert for Healing” on Weds., Aug. 3 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary of Geneva Presbyterian Church (24301 El Toro Road) in Laguna Woods. The Rev. Dr. Steven Marsh from Geneva and the Rev. Dr. Albany Lee from Irvine
Continue ReadingHighlights: Pacific Chorale Choral Camp 2022 July 5, 2022
Choral Camp 2022 is a wrap! We had such a great time with all of our singers and amazing faculty at Cal State Fullerton School of Music All images © Jason Pano Learn more about Pacific Chorale’s Choral Camp program and faculty here.
Continue ReadingPress Release: Grammy-Winning Pacific Chorale Announces Tenor and Bass Auditions June 28, 2022
Press Contact: Libby Huebner, libbyhuebner562@gmail.com, 562.799.6055 Application Deadlines Are July 21 or July 28, 2022, Based on the Position, with Auditions Scheduled in August on a First-Applied, First-Served Basis New Singers Admitted to Pacific Chorale for 2022-23 Season Must Be Fully Vaccinated and Boosted against COVID-19 COSTA MESA, CA (June 27,
Continue ReadingPress Release: GRAMMY-Winning Pacific Chorale, Led by Artistic Director Robert Istad, Announces 2022-2023 Season June 21, 2022
GRAMMY-Winning Pacific Chorale, Led by Artistic Director Robert Istad, Announces 2022-2023 Season! Read for highlights and details.
Continue ReadingPacific Chorale opens the 2022 #StarWarsCelebration weekend! May 26, 2022
Pacific Chorale was thrilled to be part of the musical intro to this weekend’s #StarWarsCelebration by welcoming Ewan McGregor and Hayden Christensen with #DuelOfTheFates! A huge thank you to Walt Disney Studios for inviting us to be part of this magnificent event, and to celebrate being back in person in such a remarkable way!
Continue ReadingReview: Mozart & Salieri by Classical Voice May 23, 2022
A Night with Mozart and Salieri, and the Amazing Pacific Chorale By Truman C. Wang for classicalvoice.org Read the full review here. “The Pacific Chorale deserved the highest accolade of the evening, giving thrilling accounts of Dies irae and two reconstructed fugues by Levin (the Osanna fugue and the Amen fugue at the end
Continue ReadingReview: Dona Nobis Pacem by LA Opus May 17, 2022
LA Opus’ David Brown had the pleasure of reviewing Pacific Chorale’s season finale, Dona Nobis Pacem. Read the full review here. The Pacific Chorale Sing Vaughan Williams and Friends … but not literally “friends” of course: Frank Ticheli, the eldest amongst the three American composers and one British represented in the first half of the
Continue ReadingHighlights: 2022 Gala May 11, 2022
Immediately following Pacific Chorale’s season finale was our 2022 Gala in Samueli Theater at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa. It was truly a joy to be able to celebrate the close of our season, the lifetime accomplishments of Carl St.Clair and Lenora Meister, and our biggest fundraising night of the year. Because of
Continue ReadingHighlights: Dona Nobis Pacem May 10, 2022
Pacific Chorale closed it’s 54th season “A Celebration of the Voice” with a thrilling and emotional performance in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa, California on May 7, 2022. All photos © Doug Gifford Photography
Continue ReadingPress Release: Pacific Chorale and Artistic Director Robert Istad Win 2022 Grammy Award for “Choral Performance” April 4, 2022
DOWNLOAD PHOTOS HERE: https://tinyurl.com/PCgrammyphotos Press Contact: Libby Huebner, libbyhuebner562@gmail.com, 562.799.6055 It Is the First Grammy for the Renowned Choir, Which Is also the First Orange County-Based Classical Music Organization Ever to Win a Grammy Award in Any Category COSTA MESA, CA (April 4, 2022) – Pacific Chorale and Artistic Director Robert Istad made history when
Continue ReadingAnd the Winner for Best Choral Performance Goes To… April 3, 2022
Pacific Chorale had the honor of joining the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Master Chorale, Los Angeles Children’s Chorus, National Children’s Chorus, and eight outstanding soloists all under the baton of conductor Gustavo Dudamel to perform Gustav Mahler’s mammoth Symphony No. 8 in E-flat Major—aptly nicknamed the “Symphony of a Thousand”—as the triumphant climax
Continue Reading2022 Grammys Premiere Ceremony March 31, 2022
Live from Las Vegas, don’t miss the #GRAMMYPremiere Ceremony livestream on April 3, 2022 at 12:30 p.m. PT on the @RecordingAcademy’s YouTube channel and on live.grammy.com.
Continue ReadingBoard Member Michael Vantrease rejoins the cast of CHOC Follies March 24, 2022
What could be more fulfilling than doing what you love while helping others at the same time? Board member and community leader Michael Vantrease is proud to be volunteering his time again in this year’s Children’s Hospital of Orange County’s Foundation annual fundraiser event, The CHOC Follies. Performed exclusively by Orange County’s civic and society
Continue ReadingHighlights from Songs of the Soul March 21, 2022
The first Pacific Chorale performance to be cancelled due to pandemic closures in 2020, we were so excited to finally share this breathtaking music in performance. Enjoy these highlights from Songs of the Soul, March 19, 2022 at Our Lady Queen of Angels in Newport Beach.
Continue ReadingPress Release: Pacific Chorale Concludes Season with Vaughan Williams’ Dona Nobis Pacem
DOWNLOAD PHOTOS HERE: https://tinyurl.com/PCMay7photos Press Contact: Libby Huebner, libbyhuebner562@gmail.com, 562.799.6055 Pacific Chorale, Led by Artistic Director Robert Istad, Concludes Season with Vaughan Williams’ Dona Nobis Pacem, Featuring Soprano Deanna Breiwick and Bass-Baritone Dashon Burton, plus Tarik O’Regan World Premiere Program also Includes West Coast Premiere of Frank Ticheli’s Until Forever Fades Away and
Continue ReadingDeanna Breiwick, Soprano March 15, 2022
Joining Pacific Chorale in our closing concert May 7, 2022 is American soprano Deanna Breiwick, hailed by The New York Times for her “sweet sound and floating high notes” and for being a “vocal trapeze artist.” We are thrilled to have Deanna join us! More about Deanna Breiwick As a new member of the Ensemble
Continue ReadingMembers of Pacific Chorale Sing for Officer Vella’s Service March 9, 2022
On Tuesday, March 8, along with Carl St.Clair and the Pacific Symphony, the members of Pacific Chorale had the honor of singing at Huntington Beach Police Officer, Nicholas Vella’s funeral service at the Honda Center. Streamed live on March 8, 2022, you can watch the full service on YouTube here. Officer Vella was tragically killed
Continue ReadingBoard Member Leads OC’s Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of President Nixon’s Historic Journey for Peace February 17, 2022
Board Member Charlie Zhang Leads Orange County’s Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of President Nixon’s Historic Journey for Peace and the Cultural Legacies of the American and Chinese People. On February 24, under the leadership of Orange County philanthropist and Pacific Chorale Board Member Charlie Zhang, the Richard Nixon Foundation has scheduled a celebratory dinner
Continue ReadingPress Release: Annual Gala to Honor Maestro Carl St.Clair and Choir Member Lenora Meister with Lifetime Achievement Awards February 15, 2022
Press Contact: Libby Huebner, libbyhuebner562@gmail.com, 562.799.6055 PACIFIC CHORALE HOSTS ANNUAL GALA, “A CELEBRATION OF THE VOICE,” HONORING MAESTRO CARL ST.CLAIR AND CHOIR MEMBER LENORA MEISTER WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Saturday, May 7, 2022, 7:00 pm, at Samueli Theater, Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa COSTA MESA, CA (February 15,
Continue ReadingVideo Preview: Songs of the Soul February 3, 2022
Wondering what’s in store for you at Pacific Chorale’s Songs of the Soul performance on March 19, 2022? Enjoy this overview, including introductions by Artistic Director Robert Istad and clips from each piece for you to enjoy on this musical journey! How does the concert open? Paul Fowler’s Calling Tell us more about Galina
Continue ReadingPress Release: Pacific Chorale, Led by Artistic Director Robert Istad, Presents Transcendent Works by Contemporary Composers February 2, 2022
Pacific Chorale continues its season with a program of transcendent choral works by six contemporary composers anchored by Estonian composer Galina Grigorjeva’s profound vocal symphony “On Leaving,” a contemplation on the soul’s release from the mortal body, and Frank Martin’s stunning Mass for Double Choir, a masterful setting of the Latin Mass, on Saturday, March 19, 2022, 8:00 p.m., at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Newport Beach.
Continue ReadingPacific Symphony Announces Artist Changes and Concert Postponements to Mitigate Risk to Audience, Musicians and Employees January 19, 2022
Pacific Symphony announced yesterday that Pacific Chorale and the American Feel Young Chorus will not be appearing on the Lunar New Year concert program(Feb. 5), although they will be seen on a pre-recorded mosaic video to the traditional Chinese song, “Swan Goose.” The orchestra also announced the postponement of “Cathedrals of Sound” (Feb. 17-19), to
Continue ReadingThe American Prize Semi-finalists: VIRTUAL PERFORMANCE (performing remotely), 2021-22 January 4, 2022
Artistic Director Robert Istad and Pacific Chorale has been selected as a National Semi-Finalists in Virtual Performance (artists performing remotely), 2021-22— professional division by The American Prize for The Wayfaring Project! The American Prize in Virtual Performance recognizes and rewards the best virtual (remote, streamed) performances made since February 2020 in response to the
Continue ReadingHighlights from Tis the Season 2021! December 23, 2021
Pacific Chorale set the mood for many this holiday season with our annual traditional musical extravaganza, Tis the Season! Enjoy some of the highlights, and see you again next year! Photos (c) Doug Gifford Photography
Continue ReadingThe Return of Carols by Candlelight December 13, 2021
A particular favorite of many audience members, this year for the first time we expanded Carols by Candlelight to two evenings, gathering at Our Lady Queen of Angels in Newport Beach. Singing music embodying the wonder, reverence, and awe of the season, enjoy these highlights of our Pacific Chorale singers. Photos (c) Doug Gifford Photography
Continue ReadingDonations matched by longtime chorister and supporter, Vina Williams December 2, 2021
DOUBLE YOUR DONATION! From now until December 31st, all contributions given to our year end campaign will be matched dollar for dollar (up to $10,000) by Vina Williams and her husband Tom Slattery! Donate Here Vina Williams has been a fixture with Pacific Chorale since 1969, when she began as a singer and soprano soloist with
Continue Reading2022 Grammy Nominee: LA Philharmonic’s Symphony of a Thousand November 29, 2021
In May 2019, Pacific Chorale had the honor of joining the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Master Chorale, Los Angeles Children’s Chorus, National Children’s Chorus, and eight outstanding soloists all under the baton of conductor Gustavo Dudamel to perform Gustav Mahler’s mammoth Symphony No. 8 in E-flat Major—aptly nicknamed the “Symphony of a Thousand”—as
Continue ReadingPBS Picks Up “The Wayfaring Project”
Press Contact: Libby Huebner, libbyhuebner562@gmail.com, 562.799.6055 Air Dates: PBS SoCal December 17, 8 pm KCET December 22, 8 pm also streams on pbssocal.org. kcet.org and the PBS app PBS SoCal and KCET to Air Pacific Chorale’s Critically Acclaimed “The Wayfaring Project,” an Original Concert Film, Conceived and Conducted by Artistic Director Robert Istad COSTA MESA, CA (November
Continue ReadingAnnouncing a Year-End Match for all donations! November 18, 2021
On the evening of October 30th, Pacific Chorale made a glorious return to the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall after a (not so brief) twenty-two-month hiatus. While many things may have changed over the past few years, the one thing that has not changed is the excitement and electricity one feels in the
Continue ReadingLA Opus Review of Pacific Chorale’s 2021 Opening Night Concert November 10, 2021
“It was a masterfully dramatic opening for the Pacific Chorale’s return to the concert platform.” “The return to the Segerstrom Concert Hall platform of the Pacific Chorale under their Artistic Director Robert Istad could not have been more warmly welcomed, and their performance of Rachmaninoff’s All-Night Vigil Op. 37 that was the main item, filling
Continue ReadingCelebrating Our Supporters: Sips & Sweets Reception November 3, 2021
Immediately following the close of our opening concert Rachmaninoff Vespers at Renee and Henry Segerstrom Hall, patrons and supporters who supported Pacific Chorale during the closure were invited to the Waterfall Terrace at The Westin South Coast in celebration of Pacific Chorale’s return to live performance. We would like to acknowledge the Pacific Chorale
Continue ReadingPacific Chorale returns to the stage with Rachmaninoff Vespers November 1, 2021
679 days since our last live performance, Pacific Chorale took to the stage in an incredible, emotional night many of us won’t soon forget. Thank you to everyone who saw us through this time, and to our audience, we hope it was a magical night for you too! #gratitude #singing #TogetherAgain All photos (c) Doug
Continue ReadingPress Release: Pacific Chorale Announces 2021-2022 Season with Return to In-Person, Indoor Performances August 26, 2021
Press Contact: Libby Huebner, libbyhuebner562@gmail.com, 562.799.6055 PACIFIC CHORALE, LED BY ARTISTIC DIRECTOR ROBERT ISTAD, ANNOUNCES 2021-2022 SEASON WITH RETURN TO IN-PERSON, INDOOR PERFORMANCES SLATED TO BEGIN IN OCTOBER, AT RENÉE AND HENRY SEGERSTROM CONCERT HALL Highlights of 54th Season, Spotlighting Contemporary Composers, Include: Two Tarik O’Regan World Premieres Bookending Season; West Coast Premieres
Continue ReadingThe Wayfaring Project: Behind the scenes filming solos! August 23, 2021
Our soloists Chelsea Chaves and Denean Dyson had a unique view while filming their solos for The Wayfaring Project. Having them face away from the audience, our video crew was able to share a unique perspective from the stage usually only visible to our performing artists!
Continue ReadingThe Wayfaring Project: Behind the scenes filming Bach August 5, 2021
After a 17-month “fermata,” Pacific Chorale finally returned to the Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall stage to film Bach’s Jesu, meine Freude for The Wayfaring Project… and it was glorious to be back making music with our friends from Pacific Symphony again! Kudos to Arts Laureate for your superstar audio and video production expertise.
Continue ReadingRelease: Pacific Chorale to Premiere Original Concert Film “The Wayfaring Project” August 3, 2021
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACTS: ANDREW BROWN, PRESIDENT & CEO ANDREW@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG RYAN MCSWEENEY, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BOX OFFICE RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 PACIFIC CHORALE TO PREMIERE ORIGINAL CONCERT FILM “THE WAYFARING PROJECT” “The Wayfaring Project” will receive its premiere public screening on the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza at Segerstrom Center for the Arts on August 21st
Continue ReadingThe Wayfaring Project: Behind the scenes filming All Things Common July 29, 2021
Where in the state is Pacific Chorale? While bringing Tarik O’Regan’s “All Things Common” to arresting visual life for “The Wayfaring Project,” Pacific Chorale and Jeff Dolen Productions managed to visit and film within a broad range of different landscapes in one single day—thanks to the Fullerton Arboretum, which graciously shared its beautiful and diverse
Continue ReadingKibsaim Escarcega named Interim Assistant Conductor July 15, 2021
Pacific Chorale welcomes our new Interim Assistant Conductor, Kibsaim Escarcega. Kibsaim is a recent graduate from Cal State Fullerton’s Master of Music program in Choral Conducting. He was awarded the inaugural John Alexander Graduate Choral Conducting Scholarship following his superb audition for the program, and continued to perform with considerable excellence (musical and collegial) throughout
Continue ReadingLet’s Pony Up for the Kids: Press Release July 13, 2021
Pacific Chorale Responds to Urgent COVID19 Need with Programs Empowering Children Through Music, Joining “Let’s Pony Up for the Kids”
Continue ReadingThe Wayfaring Project: Behind the scenes filming Light of a Clear Blue Morning July 9, 2021
If either soprano Katie Martini or flutist Joseph Loi suffers from fear of heights, you’d never have known it from their performances for “The Wayfaring Project,” shooting on the fourth level balcony of the Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Katie and Joseph are our featured soloists on “Light of a Clear Blue Morning,” coming
Continue ReadingThe Wayfaring Project: Behind the scenes filming Alleluia July 7, 2021
This week saw Pacific Chorale return to Segerstrom Center for the Arts for the first time in 519 days! Rob, the singers, soloists, director Jeff Dolen, and crew were there on Monday filming segments of Alleluia for The Wayfaring Project. It was so good to be back together in this beautiful space! Learn more about
Continue ReadingLA Philharmonic’s Symphony of a Thousand June 18, 2021
In May 2019, Pacific Chorale had the honor of joining the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Master Chorale, Los Angeles Children’s Chorus, National Children’s Chorus, and eight outstanding soloists all under the baton of conductor Gustavo Dudamel to perform Gustav Mahler’s mammoth Symphony No. 8 in E-flat Major—aptly nicknamed the “Symphony of a Thousand”—as
Continue ReadingThe Wayfaring Project: Meet Composer Moira Smiley April 30, 2021
In preparation for their virtual choir performance of “Wayfaring Stranger,” Rob Istad and the members of Pacific Chorale met with composer Moira Smiley via a Zoom conference call on April 7th. Here are some excerpts from their conversation about her musical growth and composing philosophy, and the process of arranging “Wayfaring Stranger.” R.I. Tonight, we
Continue ReadingPacific Chorale Approved for 2021 NEA Grant February 23, 2021
CONTACTS: ANDREW BROWN, PRESIDENT & CEO ANDREW@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG RYAN MCSWEENEY, DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BOX OFFICE RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 PACIFIC CHORALE TO RECEIVE $10,000 GRANT FROM THE NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS Choral concert in the 2021-22 season to feature pairing of works by Caroline Shaw and Dietrich Buxtehude. Costa Mesa, CA – On February 4, 2021,
Continue ReadingReviews of All Things Common February 15, 2021
Critical Praise All Things Common has been garnering strong reviews since its release, culminating in the announcement that the prestigious audiophile outlet Native DSD Music has named it one of their Top 10 Albums of the Year for 2020! “What’s unexpected from these contemporary choral works is composer Tarik O’Regan’s music, which is
Continue ReadingHow to Watch Tis the Season! December 3, 2020
If you have reserved a virtual ticket, we will email the exclusive concert link December 1st, 2020. Not registered yet? Get Your Ticket Now! Test your device or setup to make sure you will be able to watch December 3rd at 5pm PST. Our show will be streaming two ways: through an integrated auction site
Continue ReadingRelease: Pacific Chorale Announces 2020 Virtual Holiday Concert & Gala November 5, 2020
For release: November 5, 2020 Contacts: Andrew Brown, President & CEO, ANDREW@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG Ryan McSweeney, Director of Marketing & Box Office, RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 PACIFIC CHORALE ANNOUNCES 2020 VIRTUAL HOLIDAY CONCERT & GALA “Tis the Season!” on December 3 will bring the Chorale’s popular holiday offering online. Accompanying Gala auction will raise funds to support Pacific Chorale’s artistic
Continue ReadingFor Your Grammy Consideration: All Things Common October 8, 2020
We are proud and excited to have our latest recording included in the first-round ballot for the 2021 Grammy Awards! Friends, What is it about choral music, produced by human voices in collaboration with one another, that touches us so deeply right now? My hunch is that we crave collaboration, commitment, and inspiration right now.
Continue ReadingPacific Chorale 2020-2021 Season Update August 21, 2020
WELCOME TO 2020 – 2021: THE FERMATA SEASON! Greetings from Pacific Chorale! Rob and I wanted to take an opportunity to update you on Pacific Chorale’s plans for the 2020-2021 Season. We thank you for your patience as the staff and Board continue to work tirelessly behind the scenes to adapt to the challenges
Continue ReadingPacific Chorale stands in solidarity with Black communities June 2, 2020
Pacific Chorale stands in solidarity with Black communities to demand an end to violence and brutality resulting from the racism that still suffocates our nation. The death or George Floyd once again demonstrates that this inequality is not new and that the voices of Black communities still have not been heard. We acknowledge
Continue ReadingRelease: Pacific Chorale Announces Release of New Recording “All Things Common” May 18, 2020
For release: May 18, 2020 Contacts: Andrew Brown, President & CEO, ANDREW@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG Ryan McSweeney, Director of Marketing & Box Office, RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 Pacific Chorale Announces Release of New Recording “All Things Common,” Featuring Music by Tarik O’Regan First recording released under Artistic Director Robert Istad’s leadership features the organization’s 24-member professional chamber choir, joined by Salastina
Continue ReadingConcert Cancellation Notice: Mozart Coronation Mass March 16, 2020
March 16, 2020 PACIFIC CHORALE CANCELS MOZART CORONATION MASS CONCERT IN RESPONSE TO CORONAVIRUS Costa Mesa, CA – Given the events of the past week, and the CDC’s new guidelines advising the cancellation of gatherings of 50 or more people during the next eight weeks, it saddens us to announce that we have
Continue ReadingConcert Cancellation Notice: Songs of the Soul March 12, 2020
Pacific Chorale cancels Songs of the Soul concert in response to sincere and utmost concern for the health and safety of our artists, staff, and patrons.
Continue ReadingRelease: Pacific Chorale Announces Singer Auditions for 2020-2021 January 21, 2020
For release: January 21, 2020 Contacts: Andrew Brown, President & CEO, ANDREW@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG Ryan McSweeney, Director of Marketing & Box Office, RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 PACIFIC CHORALE ANNOUNCES SINGER AUDITIONS FOR 2020–2021 SEASON Chorale seeks volunteer altos, tenors, and basses to perform at Segerstrom Center for the Arts’ Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall and other Southern California
Continue ReadingRelease: Pacific Chorale to receive $15,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts January 15, 2020
For release: January 15, 2020 Contacts: Andrew Brown, President & CEO, ANDREW@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG Ryan McSweeney, Director of Marketing & Box Office, RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 Pacific Chorale to Receive $15,000 Grant From the National Endowment for the Arts Concert on March 21st at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Newport Beach to feature works by Galina
Continue ReadingRelease: Pacific Chorale Opens 2019-2020 Season with Brahms and Pärt October 29, 2019
For release: October 29, 2019 Contacts: Andrew Brown, President & CEO ANDREW@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG Ryan McSweeney, Director of Marketing & Box Office RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 PACIFIC CHORALE OPENS 2019-2020 SEASON WITH BRAHMS AND PÄRT Concert on November 9th will feature the Chorale and Pacific Symphony in Johannes Brahms’ “A German Requiem” and Arvo Pärt’s “Te Deum.” Followed by
Continue ReadingRelease: “Beer Choir” brings together lovers of music and libations June 12, 2019
For release: June 12, 2019 Contacts: Molly Buzick Pontin Vice-President, Education & Community Programs MOLLY@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG Ryan McSweeney Director of Marketing & Box Office RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 “Beer Choir” brings together lovers of music and libations Orange County Women’s Chorus, Pacific Chorale, and Segerstrom Center for the Arts to host the first local gathering of the national
Continue ReadingRelease: Pacific Chorale to Celebrate “UnSung Heroes” February 5, 2019
For release: February 6, 2019 Contacts: Andrew Brown, President & CEO ANDREW@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG Ryan McSweeney, Director of Marketing & Box Office RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 Pacific Chorale to Celebrate “UnSung Heroes” Concert on March 30th will highlight the accomplishments of women composers, including a world premiere by guest curator Karen P. Thomas. Costa Mesa, CA – On March
Continue ReadingRelease: Pacific Chorale Celebrates the Holidays with 2 Concerts & Gala November 15, 2018
For release: November 15, 2018 Contacts: Molly Buzick Pontin, DMA, Managing Director MOLLY@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG Ryan McSweeney, Director of Marketing & Box Office RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 PACIFIC CHORALE CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAYS WITH 2 CONCERTS & GALA December 1: “Carols by Candlelight” at Our Lady Queen of Angels, Newport Beach December 22 & 23: “Tis the Season!” at Segerstrom
Continue ReadingRelease: Pacific Chorale Hires Andrew Brown as President & CEO October 15, 2018
For release: October 15, 2018 Contacts: Molly Buzick Pontin, DMA, Managing Director MOLLY@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG Ryan McSweeney, Director of Marketing & Box Office RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 PACIFIC CHORALE HIRES ANDREW BROWN AS PRESIDENT & CEO Costa Mesa, CA, October 15, 2018 –Pacific Chorale today announced the appointment of Andrew Brown as its new President and Chief Executive Officer.
Continue ReadingRelease: Pacific Chorale to Open Season with Haydn’s “The Creation” August 20, 2018
For release: August 20, 2018 Contacts: Molly Buzick Pontin, DMA, Managing Director molly@pacificchorale.org Ryan McSweeney, Director of Marketing & Box Office ryan@pacificchorale.org 714/662-2345 PACIFIC CHORALE TO OPEN SEASON WITH HAYDN’S “THE CREATION” Performance will feature video projections and lighting by Martin Brinkerhoff Associates Costa Mesa, CA – On Sunday, November 4th, Pacific Chorale will open
Continue ReadingRelease: Chorale’s Festival to Unite Southern California in Song July 24, 2018
For release: July 23, 2018 Contacts: Molly Buzick Pontin, DMA, Managing Director MOLLY@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG Ryan McSweeney, Director of Marketing & Box Office RYAN@PACIFICCHORALE.ORG 714/662-2345 CHORALE’S FESTIVAL TO UNITE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA IN SONG Artistic Director Robert Istad Conducts an All-Mozart Program in Free Public Performance Costa Mesa, CA – More than 300 Southern California singers, including members
Continue ReadingRelease: Pacific Chorale Announces 2018-2019 Season: Imagine, Inspire, Create April 16, 2018
Release-Pacific Chorale- SEASON ANNOUNCEMENT-2018-2019 For release: April 16, 2018 Contacts: Elizabeth Pearson elizabeth@pacificchorale.org Ryan McSweeney, Marketing Director ryan@pacificchorale.org 714/662-2345 PACIFIC CHORALE ANNOUNCES 2018-2019 SEASON: Imagine, Inspire, Create Artistic Director Robert Istad to Introduce New Directions in Presentations Costa Mesa, CA – Pacific Chorale, the resident choir of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, is pleased
Continue ReadingPress Release: Opening Concert Oct. 29 August 24, 2017
For release: August 23, 2017 Contacts: Elizabeth Pearson – 714/662-2345 elizabeth@pacificchorale.org ryan@pacificchorale.org PACIFIC CHORALE LAUNCHES 50th ANNIVERSARY ON OCTOBER 29 WITH A U.S. PREMIERE, A SALUTE TO LEONARD BERNSTEIN, AND A REPRISE OF ITS FIRST CHORAL-ORCHESTRAL COMMISSION Robert Istad will make his Orange County Debut as Artistic Director COSTA MESA, CA — Pacific Chorale, the
Continue ReadingPress Release: Season Announcement August 8, 2017
For release: March 21, 2017 Contacts: Elizabeth Pearson – 714/662-2345 elizabeth@pacificchorale.org ryan@pacificchorale.org PACIFIC CHORALE ANNOUNCES 2017-2018 SEASON UNDER NEW CONDUCTOR New Artistic Director Robert Istad Will Lead the Organization in Its “Golden Anniversary” Year The Board of Directors of Pacific Chorale, the resident choir of Segerstrom Center for the Arts, has announced its 2017-2018 season,
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