Howard Brubeck Theatre resonates with praises of singing

Chorale singers gathered to serenade the Howard Brubeck Theatre with their contrasting tones and captivating lyrics on Oct. 25.

The performance, titled “In Praise of Singing,” featured both Palomar College Chorale and Chamber singers, directed by Sally Husch Dean. The show was accompanied by guest feature Mesa College Vocal Ensemble, directed by Richard Chagnon.

The theatre had been jam-packed with spectators reveling at the sights and lyrical sounds of the different ensembles. The popularity caused a short delay in the performance and ticket entries; staff wanted to ensure each person had their seat before the show commenced.

As the house settled down and seats filled up, a formal introduction was given. Palomar’s Chorale Singers gathered amongst the stage. Being the first ensemble of the afternoon, the group sung a variety of songs in both Latin and English.

The concert commenced with a piece called “Magnificent,” which initially started with a piano lead as vocalists settled in. The piece had a classic hymnal feel to it, replicating a church vibe. Starting with a steady tempo, as singers turned their pages and sang harmoniously. The vocal pitches, from bass to soprano, blended in repetition of one word: magnificent.

The Chorale singers concluded their performance with a hymnal piece, “Gloria,” which tied into the first piece. Bass notes gradually joined in with the higher notes to merge accordingly. The melody transformed near the middle, picking up the tempo, the ensemble hit high and low pitches, ending together on one solitary note. The audience praised the ensemble by applauds and whistles.

The next performance was the guest feature, Mesa College Vocal Ensemble. The ensemble was given a warm welcome as they congregated on the Brubeck stage. Their style replicated similarities between the theme. Their lyrics ranged from English, to Latin and Danish.

A notable piece was the first melody they performed. The song, “The Water is Wide “ had been a dominant bass tone piece, with the humming of higher tones comprising the background. Solos between male vocalists alternated within the performance to allow a range of contrasting tones.

The third and final ensemble introduced were the Chamber Singers. The group, appearing to be the largest ensemble on stage, performed songs alongside a quintet of stringed, orchestral instruments.

The production was a dedication to a well-renowned chorister, composer and writer, Alice Parker, who recently turned 90. Director Dean gave tribute to the chorus muse by reciting the lyrics for the concluding piece for the Chamber Singers.

The Chamber Singers sung “In Praise of Singing,” the highlight piece dedicated to Parker and composed by her. The piece was split into several parts, each tying into each. The tempo varied, and the style alternated. The ensemble merged their tones well, allowing string instruments to compliment their vocal ranges.

The last performance, “How Can I Keep From Singing?” combined both Mesa and Palomar’s groups onto one stage. Arranged by Parker, all ensembles blended their vocals accordingly, resonating through the theatre.

Dean invited the audience to join in with lyrics inscribed in the program to follow along during the second repeat. The hymn tune reverberated as tones of all ages combined with the performers. The audience praised the ensembles with an encore of applause as the show came to a close.

Palomar Chorale and Chamber singers’ next performance will include the Symphony Orchestra. The concert will be held at 7 p.m. on Nov. 21. For more information or tickets, visit palomarperforms.com