Closing a triumphant centennial season this past June, Vallejo Choral Society’s 40 singers, led by Artistic Director Andrew Brown and backed by a stellar orchestra, thrilled audiences in Benicia and Vallejo with stirring renditions of Vivaldi’s exuberant Gloria and Morten Lauridsen's etherial Lux Æterna.
The concert, entitled Transcending, was “an inspiring evening of beautiful music!” according to May Lamoreux, who, with her husband, Larry, attended the Saturday night concert held at Community Congregational Church. "Mr. Brown and the musicians deserve great credit for an ambitious program.” Several concert attendees said they were moved to tears and commented that the music was "truly transcendent” and "feeds your soul.”
At 100 years old, Vallejo Choral Society not just endures but thrives. For this momentous anniversary celebration, the members raised over $10,000 to hire 17 top-shelf Bay Area musicians to form the VCS Centennial Season Finale Orchestra, with the help of Benicia violinist Clif Foster. This community chorus has grown steadily in recent years, now at 45 singers, and Benicians comprise half its membership.
“How sweet it is to go locally to get this inspiring experience,” said Gina Snyder, who attended the concert with her husband, Tom. "For years we have traveled far and wide for it.”
Chris Preovolos Symphonic Choir performing at Benicia St. Dominic’s Church |
Vallejo Choral’s hundredth season also comprised two previous programs: In March, the chorus presented its Awakening concerts, featuring Fauré’s glorious Requiem, held at St. Dominic’s in Benicia; and in December the group embarked on its century of song with Dreaming, highlighting Britten’s Ceremony of Carols, with its Benicia concert held at St. Paul’s Church on First Street. The group’s Vallejo venue for several years has been the resonant First Presbyterian Church on Amador St.
Now poised to kick off its 101st season, the Society will begin preparations this month for December concerts featuring Handel’s Messiah, complete with professional orchestra and soloists.
All are welcome to join Vallejo Choral Society, and no audition is required. Rehearsals start August 29 and are held on Wednesdays at 7pm at Springbrook Masonic Temple in Vallejo.
For more information, go to vallejochoral.org.
