Sonoran Desert Chorale Performs A Sacred Mosaic

Mosaic, the art of assembling colored pieces of glass or stone to create an image or design, has been used to depict stories of faith and the spirit for centuries. Ren Clausen's masterpiece, A New Creation, sets the tone for the "mosaic" of this concert as the Chorale is accompanied by a 17-piece orchestra in this extraordinary choral work. In writing about it, Clausen noted that "Awe and wonder, unworthiness and doubt, mercy and forgiveness, love, joy, and peace, are all wrapped together in this piece, as indeed these elements are wrapped together in our daily lives."

As the Chorale celebrates its 25th Anniversary Season, this gala concert gives life to its own mosaic with some of the jewels of the past 500 years of sacred song, set in place by the rich and powerful music of Mendelssohn, Durufl , E envalds, Wilberg and more.
Audience members will be treated not only to the glorious music but also to a photo retrospective of the Chorale's 25 years, a majestic piece including alumni singers, a fun choral fashion show, and a reception following the program to visit with the director and the singers.

A Sacred Mosaic performances will take place Saturday, March 2, 2019 at 7:30 P.M. at First United Methodist Church, 15 E. First Avenue, Mesa and Sunday, March 3, 2019 at 3:00 P.M. at La Casa De Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. Tickets are now on sale. Tickets may be purchased online at SonoranDesertChorale.org or by calling 480-305-4538. Advance single ticket prices are $18 for adults/$15 for seniors, students and groups of 10 or more. Ticket prices at the door are $20 for adults and $18 for seniors/students.

The soaring melodic lines of Mendelssohn's Denn er hat seinen Engeln befohlen ber dir (For God Commanded Angels To Watch Over You) fill the listener with a special feeling of calm. And the flowing, chant-like strains of Ubi Caritas (Where charity and love are, God is there) set by Durufl leave an indelible impression of peace. These are immortal works in the sacred repertoire.

Exsultate Iusti in Domino (Rejoice in the Lord, O Ye Just - Psalm 33) by the 17th Century composer Juan de Padilla is a rousing double chorus a cappella work with shifting rhythms and contrasting dynamics. It is a treat to sing and hear. Contrast that with another double chorus piece where a sonorous melodic line for the chorus underscores the floating twin soprano lines that soar high above. riks E envalds O Salutaris Hostia (O Saving Sacrifice) is a triumph of closely woven sound and pure resonance.

Come celebrate with us! Make plans now to share in this very special event. It will truly be a memorable time for all.