Sing Out!

Pass Chorale Resumes Rehearsals

2012-01-12T09:14:00.000-08:00

The Pass Chorale resumes rehearsals at 7 pm on Tuesday, January 17, 2012. We'll begin work on Puccini's Messa di Gloria. This is an amazing work that Puccini wrote when he was 17 or 18. It has very beautiful choruses, with tenor and baritone solos. You can almost hear some of his future opera melodies. It is a seldom performed works, but the Pass Chorale has performed it before.

Please join us, we are again rehearsing in the Dorothy Ramon Learning Center's San Manuel Gathering Hall, 127 N. San Gorgonio Ave., Banning.

Concert Countdown

2011-12-06T10:17:00.000-08:00

The Pass Chorale is having extra rehearsals, and we are making final changes to the program before it goes to be copied. We are trying to remember everything that needs to be done before the concert. Today director Ernest is delivering music and picking up the big drums for the percussionist.

Come one, come all to the concert. The Schubert mass is really beautiful, and there's something really special about Christmas music! The carol sing-along is a chance to sing with an orchestra!

The concert is Sunday, December 11, 2:30 pm, Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Williams St., Banning.

Adults: $15

Students and Seniors: $10

Christmas Concert Flyer

2011-11-05T09:25:00.000-07:00

Christmas Concert - December 11

2011-10-12T14:33:00.000-07:00

The Pass Chorale Christmas Concert is scheduled for Sunday, December 11, 2011, 2:30 pm at Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Williams St. in Banning. The featured work is Franz Schubert's Mass in G. It is a beautiful concert mass with soloists, chorus and orchestra. It is the first time the Chorale has performed a Schubert mass. Singers are really enjoying rehearsing this work.

In addition, we'll perform several Christmas anthems. I remember "The Snow Lay on the Ground" by Leo Sowerby from an album by the Robert Shaw Chorale, and have always wanted to sing it. We borrowed the music from Our Savior's library. "Shepherd's Joy" by Mark Hayes is a Celtic carol with recorder, violin, piano, and percussion accompaniment.

The concert always ends with a Carol Sing-Along, with the orchestra! It's not every day that we get to sing with an orchestra, and the audience always loves this. The orchestra members enjoy it too, because Director Ernest makes up arrangements for them on the spot!

A beautiful reception follows the concert.

Tickets and further info are available from Chorale members or by phone 951-849-4676 or email, siva@dishmail.net. Cost is $15 for Adults, $10 for Seniors and Students.

We hope many can join us for our 2011 Celebration of Christmas!

Great Singing Space

2011-10-11T08:07:00.000-07:00

The Pass Chorale has settled in to singing in the Gathering Hall at Dorothy Ramon Learning Center. The space has great acoustics and it seems easier to sing there. The Millie Plueger piano has now been tuned twice. It is up to concert pitch, but will be tuned again in November, just to be sure it holds. Tuner Greg Schultz gave a nice concert after he tuned the piano yesterday.

Tonight the Pass Chorale meets in the Hall again and will try out the newly tuned piano. There is still time for singers to join in time for the Christmas concert!

Tuesday, September 6 Rehearsal

2011-09-04T18:24:00.000-07:00

The piano donated to the Pass Chorale by Millie Plueger is now in place at the Gathering Hall of the Dorothy Ramon Learning Center! It hasn't been tuned yet, but we are so excited to have it in the Hall that we're going to hold our Pass Chorale rehearsal there on Tuesday, September 6. It will be wonderful to hear music in this new space. We are grateful to our former accompanist, Millie, for this wonderful gift.

All singers are welcome, the Learning Center is located at 111 N. San Gorgonio Ave., on the corner of San Gorgonio and Hays in Banning. The Gathering Hall is just north of that building. See you there at 7 pm!

Fall Rehearsals

2011-09-01T11:35:00.000-07:00

Summer is over but there's still time to join the Pass Chorale for the Christmas concert. During the summer we've made great progress on the Schubert mass. We are also learning several Christmas anthems. In the heat of the summer we were singing about snow! I think it made us a bit cooler.

We are still calling all singers to join us. We normally meet at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Banning. We are going to try meeting at the new Gathering Hall at Dorothy Ramon Learning Center as soon as we can get a piano moved there and tuned. Watch this space for further info.

Calling Singers - Pass Chorale Begins Rehearsals

2011-06-12T19:16:00.001-07:00

It may not even be summer yet, but the Pass Chorale will begin rehearsals for its Christmas Concert on Tuesday, June 14, 2011, Flag Day. The major work for Christmas will be a mass in G by Franz Schubert. Several Christmas anthems will also be part of the program.

All singers are invited to participate. Rehearsals are held at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Williams St., Banning. For further information call director, Ernest Siva at 951-849-4676 or email siva@dishmail.net.

Rehearsals begin on Flag Day

2011-05-28T14:42:00.000-07:00

Rehearsals for the Pass Chorale Christmas concert begin on Tuesday, June 14, 2011, Flag Day. We will begin singing Christmas music. We are still undecided on a major work, but we have enough music to get us started. Please join us!

Spring Concert

2011-05-28T14:40:00.000-07:00

It was a wonderful experience to sing the Faure Requiem and the other pieces. The orchestra members really loved the music too! The reception by Jill Trick and her mom, Laura Trick, was beautiful with fresh flowers from Jill’s garden and wonderful food. Pat Murkland distributed our programs and actually tweeted about the concert from her post. Accompanst Joan Frost came through like a champ, playing the organ part in the Requiem and accompanying the rest of the choral pieces.

The audience was smaller than usual; it happened that the funeral for one of Banning’s leading citizens, Bud Mathewson, was that day as well.

Spring Concert Press Release

2011-04-30T10:11:00.001-07:00

The beautiful Requiem by Gabriel Fauré is the featured work at the Pass Chorale’s Spring Concert on May 15. This Requiem features beautiful solos and choruses, lush strings, harp, and brass. Featured soloists are Stacy Fraser, soprano, and Ulises Espinoza, baritone. Stacy Fraser is head of the Opera Department at California State University, San Bernardino. Ulises Espinoza is a voice student at Cal State.

Also on the program are two choral pieces by Los Angeles composer, Morten Lauridsen, recipient of a National Medal of Arts in 2007. One piece is from Songs of Roses, a choral setting of 5 French poems. The other is a setting of a poem by James Agee, Sure on this Shining Night.

An anthem by English composer, John Rutter, and a setting of the Battle Hymn by Peter Wilhousky are also be featured. Rutter composed a new anthem for the recent Royal Wedding.

The Pass Chorale is a community chorus serving the Pass area. It was founded in the 1950s and we are proud to be carrying on its tradition of performing major classical works. The Chorale and orchestra are directed by Ernest Siva, who grew up on Morongo reservation, earned degrees in musical education and choral music at USC. Singers are from communities and around the Pass area. Orchestra members are from all over southern California.

Date and Time: May 15, 2011, 2:30 pm

Location: Our Savior’s Lutheran Church

1320 W. Williams St.

Banning, CA

Tickets: Available at the door

Adults: $15

Seniors and Students: $10

Further information: 951-849-4676

passchorale.blogspot.com

Countdown to Concert!

2011-04-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

Rehearsals are getting serious. We're singing through the entire program now. We began work on two new choral pieces, For the Beauty of the Earth by John Rutter and Battle Hymn arranged by Peter Wilhousky. The Wilhousky is an arrangement that most of us remember singing for the first time in high school. It still seems to be the singers favorite. We have orchestra parts for the Rutter and the Wilhousky, so they should be wonderful.

The Faure Requiem is going through all of our minds now. Soprano Dolores calls it and "ear worn." It is beautiful, and we are beginning to make real music. The Lauridsen pieces are shaping up too.

We handed out flyers at last rehearsal. We've been working on the program.... Its getting close.

Spring is coming

2011-03-17T10:40:00.000-07:00

As we get closer to our spring concert, rehearsals get serious. We are struggling with singing the Morten Lauridsen song, Dirait-on in French! The music is difficult, but the French is giving us more trouble. We will prevail. We are loving the melodic lines in the two Lauridson pieces. The second, Sure on this Shining Night, begins with a glorious melody sung in unison by the men. The piano parts are important in both pieces, and accompanist Joan is doing a great job. The singers will catch up to her soon, we hope!

Rehearsals

2011-02-09T10:29:00.000-08:00

The Pass Chorale has had four rehearsals since we resumed in January. At the last one we made it all the way through the Faure Requiem. That's just the first taste of the music, now we go back and really learn it. Nonetheless, it is a milestone.

We have also started rehearsing two songs by Morten Lauridsen, Sure on this Shining Night and Dirait-on. The first is a setting of a poem by John Agee. The second is from a suite of four songs in french, about roses. Both have wonderful melodic lines in each part. The piano accompaniment is also really beautiful.

We still need singers, so anyone with singing experience can still join us. We meet on Tuesday evenings at Our Savior's Lutheran Church. Call or email for further information!

Pass Chorale Resumes Rehearsals Jan. 18

2011-01-06T08:50:00.000-08:00

Calling all singers. The Pass Chorale will begin rehearsals for the May 15 Spring Concert on Tuesday, January 18, 2011.

We will begin work on the Fauré Requiem. This work will be easier for singers than the Haydn masses we’ve been preparing. The Requiem is a famous piece, and the Pass Chorale has not performed it yet. It has beautiful choruses and solos.

We will also have some anthems for spring as well.

The Pass Chorale invites all with singing experience and a love for music to join us. Rehearsals are held on Tuesday evenings, 7 – 8:30 pm at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Williams St., Banning, CA. For further information, call director Ernest Siva, 951-849-4676 or siva@dishmail.net.

Wonderful Concert, Thank you Singers!

2010-12-14T14:30:00.000-08:00

Director Ernest Siva rehearses the chorus before the concert.

The Pass Chorale Christmas Concert got us all into the Christmas spirit. The orchestra played brilliantly. Our concertmaster, Jeninne Hell, marked the scores of the string players so that their bowing would match the words the choristers were singing! It was a great experience to sing the Haydn Missa Cellensis, a marvelous work that was new to the singers and the instrumentalists. It took many rehearsals for the singers to master this difficult work. The soloists all had beautiful and difficult arias and ensembles.

Bass player waits while chorus rehearses before concert.

Our soloists for the mass were all from California State University, San Bernardino.
Stacy Fraser, soprano, heads the opera program at CSUSB. Tenor, Andrew Crane is head of choral music there. Alto, Danielle Perrault, and bass, Ulises Espinoza, are students in these programs. We are proud to partner with the fine musicians at Cal State, San Bernardino!

Christmas anthems were the second part of the program. These ranged from a 16th Century text, Remember, O Thou Man to a contemporary Brazilian carol complete with bongos, maracas, and claves. An Ave Maria by Franz Beibl was originally written for a firemen’s chorus in England. Those firemen must have been very accomplished singers! Andrew Crane and chorale member Monte Joham sang the solo parts.

Jill Trick prepares goodies. Her mother, Laura, helps in kitchen.

The concert was followed by a reception set up by Jill Trick and her mother, Laura Trick. They always provide beautiful decorations and arrangements. Volunteer Pat Murkland is always there to take tickets and hand out programs. We thank them!

We also thank our choristers who are all volunteers. They put in countless hours of rehearsals and home study to learn their parts. We get so deeply into this music that we come to love it and go through days of “withdrawal” when the concert is over. We are still hearing the music in our heads.

Joan Frost at the keyboard

We especially thank our accompanist, Joan Frost, who puts in as many hours as we do helping us to learn this music and playing in our concerts.
She is a true gem, and we couldn’t do what we do without her!

We thank all who attended the concert, supporting us with their presence. Thanks to donors who contributed as well.

Countdown to Concert

2010-12-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

The Pass Chorale has extra rehearsals and longer rehearsals as we prepare for our Christmas Concert on December 12. We are all singing the music in our heads all day. This is one of the wonderful things that happens when we get deeply into great music. There is so much there, the more you sing it, the more you learn.

The rehearsal with the orchestra is Saturday afternoon, always an exciting time to hear the voices and full orchestra together for the first time.

Invite friends are relatives to enjoy our concert with us. It will get everyone in the Christmas spirit!

2:30pm
Our Savior's Lutheran Church
1321 W. Williams St.
Banning, CA

Phineas Festival

2010-11-06T09:29:00.001-07:00

The Phineas Festival (named after Banning founder Phineas Banning) is a celebration of the start of the Holiday Season. It is scheduled on November 20, the Saturday before Thanksgiving, from 10 am to 6 pm. It will feature snow and snow games for kids, tours by antique fire engine or horse-drawn carriage, and lots of displays and exhibits. It will end with the lighting of the town Christmas Tree and lights in the windows of the downtown businesses.

The Pass Chorale is scheduled to sing on stage at 3 pm for 20 minutes. We'll be singing our Thanksgiving song plus Christmas carols. We will then go caroling around town, especially at Dorothy Ramon Learning Center.

Pass Chorale November dates

2010-10-31T17:51:00.000-07:00

The Pass Chorale will sing at the Banning "State of the City" luncheon. The luncheon will be held on Wednesday, November 17, at the Banning White House on the hill. To fit the season, we will sing some Thanksgiving songs and preview some of the Christmas anthems on our Concert program.

The Banning Cultural Alliance has also requested that the chorale sing at the Phineas Festival on Saturday, November 20. This festival is scheduled from 10 am to 6 pm and will end with the lighting of the town Christmas Tree. Christmas carols will be in order here.

Good Summer Progress, Still Time to Join

2010-08-31T08:51:00.000-07:00

All through the summer we've had our ups and downs in attendance. People have been on vacation, at the Redlands Bowl, other commitments. But as we approach September, most of our singers are back and getting very serious about learning the music. We have practice CDs for the Haydn Mass. We learn the carols from rehearsals. Through the summer we've made good progress on both.

There is still time for interested singers to join and catch up! Our concert is on December 12, so we've got time. The music is really beautiful, with lots of variety. For example, we are having fun with the rhythms of the Brazilian carol.

Alto Robin had a tongue cancer operation, but was back with us 3 weeks after surgery. We are so happy to have her! Tenor Charlie will have knee replacement in October. We are almost like a sports team. We all work together to produce the music, and we suffer through injuries and problems together.

First Three Rehearsals

2010-06-30T19:12:00.000-07:00

Its summer and many are traveling, enjoying the summer. We’ve had three rehearsals of the Chorale and each time, some singers were missing. Most of our regulars attended at least one rehearsal, and got their music.

Our major work for the Christmas concert is Haydn’s Missa Cellensis. We will perform is as an “English Mass,” that is, the Kyrie and Gloria only. That leaves us more time for several Christmas anthems. The mass is beautiful, and difficult.

We’re working on several Christmas anthems.

A Spotless Rose by Herbert Howells sets a 14th Century text. It has a beautiful baritone solo.

An Ave Maria by Franz Biebl was originally written for a Firemen’s chorus in England. It is for 8 parts and very beautiful. Those firemen were very talented indeed!

Past Three O’Clock is a song of a 17th Century London town crier. It is arranged for chorus and harp by Cary Radcliff.

Remember, O Thou Man is another 17th Century text, arranged by Robert Jordahl.

Popular choral composer, John Rutter, wrote the festive Rejoice and be Merry for chorus and hand bells.

Brazilian Christmas Carol, for chorus and percussion, is composed by Benjamin Harlan. We’ll sing it in English.

So far, the singers really like all the music. Come join us and keep cool by singing Christmas music all summer!

Pass Chorale Rehearsals Resume June 15

2010-06-15T13:57:00.000-07:00

We start rehearsals for our December Christmas concert on June 15. We'll be working on 6 new Christmas anthems and the Kyrie and Gloria of a Haydn mass. We are excited to be singing again!

Wonderful Spring Concert

2010-05-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

Our Spring Concert was really a thrill. I'm sure all of the other singers also still have the Mozart Requiem running in their heads. We had a good and enthusiastic audience too. We are so grateful to our singers who practiced this music many months. We got to know it well, and this is a benefit of singing in a chorus like ours. We lean so much from this music every time we get to study it. We are grateful to the many who came to the concert. I don't think most people know how much it means to us who have lived with and love this music to have others come to share it with us.

Next on our agenda is a month off. Our next meeting will be June 15. We will start rehearsing for our Christmas Concert! Anyone interested in joining us is welcome to attend this rehearsal.

Spring Concert Program

2010-05-15T17:52:00.000-07:00

Program

Exultate Jubilate, K. 165
Rebecca Tomlinson, soprano

1. Aria
Exsultate, jubilate, o vos animae beatae, exsultate, jubilate, dulcia cantica canendo; cantui vestro respondendo psallant aethera cum me.

Rejoice, resound with joy, o you blessed souls, rejoice, resound with joy, singing sweet songs. In response to your singing let the heavens sing forth with me.

2. Recitative
Fulget amica dies, jam fugere et nubila et procellae; exortus est justis inexspectata quies.Undique obscura regnabat nox, surgite tandem laeti qui timuistis adhuc, et jucundi aurorae fortunatae frondes dextera plena et lilia date.

The lovely day glows bright, now clouds and storms have fled. A sudden calm has arisen for the just. Everywhere dark night held sway before, but now at last, rise up and rejoice! You who are happy and not afraid in the blessed dawn, make offerings of garlands and lillies.

3. Aria
Tu virginum corona, tu nobis pacem dona, tu consolare affectus, unde suspirat cor. Alleluia.

You, O crown of virgins, grant us peace, console our feelings, from which our hearts sigh. Alleluia

Requiem, K626
W.A. Mozart
Completed by Franz Xaver Sussmayr in its traditional form
Rebecca Tomlinson, soprano
Danielle Perrault, alto
Andrew Crane, tenor
Monty Joham, bass

1. Introitus - Requiem, Chorus and Soprano Solo
Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis. Te decet hymnus, Deus, in Sion, et tibi reddetur votum in Jerusalem.

Grant them eternal rest, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. A hymn, O God, shall be sung in Zion, and a vow shall be paid in Jerusalem. To thee all flesh shall come. Eternal rest give to them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.

2. Kyrie Eleison, Chorus
Kyrie eleison. Christe eleison. Kyrie eleison.

Lord, have mercy. Christ have mercy. Lord have mercy.

3. Sequenz

Dies Irae, Chorus
Dies irae, dies illa Solvet saeclum in favilla, Teste David cum Sibylla.
Quantus tremor est futurus Quando judex est venturus Cuncta stricte discussurus.

Day of wrath, that day will dissolve the earth in ashes as David and the Sibyl bear witness. What dread there will be when the Judge shall come to judge all things strictly.

Tuba Mirum, Solo Quartet
Tuba mirum spargens sonum per sepulcra regionum coget omnes ante thronum.
Mors stupebit et natura cum resurget creatura judicanti responsura.
Liber scriptus proferetur in quo totum continetur, unde mundus judicetur.
Judex ergo cum sedebit quid quid latet apparebit, nil inultum remanebit.
Quid sum miser tunc dicturus,quem patronum rogaturus, cum vix justus sit securus?

A trumpet, spreading a wondrous sound through the graves of all lands, to bring all before the throne. Death and Nature shall be astonished when all creation rises again to answer to the Judge. A book, written in, will be brought forth in which is contained everything that is, out of which the world shall be judged. When therefore the Judge takes His seat whatever is hidden will reveal itself. nothing will remain unavenged. What then shall I say, wretch that I am, what advocate entreat to speak for me, When even the righteous may hardly be secure?

Rex Tremendae, Chorus
Rex tremendae majestatis, qui salvandos salvas gratis, salve me, fons pietatis.

King of awful majesty, who freely saves the redeemed, save me, O fount of goodness.

Recordare, Solo Quartet
Recordare, Jesu pie, quod sum causa tuae viae, ne me perdas illa die.
Quaerens me sedisti lassus, redemisti crucem passus, tantus labor non sit cassus.
Juste judex ultionis Donum fac remissionis ante diem rationis. Ingemisco tamquam reus, culpa rubet vultus meus, supplicanti parce, Deus. Qui Mariam absolvisti et latronem exaudisti, mihi quoque spem dedisti. Preces meae non sunt dignae, sed tu bonus fac benigne, ne perenni cremer igne. Inter oves locum praesta, et ab haedis me sequestra, statuens in parte dextra.

Remember, blessed Jesus, that I am the cause of your pilgrimage. Do not forsake me on that day. Seeking me you did sit down. Weary, you redeemed me, suffering death on the cross. Let not such toil be in vain. just avenging judge, grant remission before the day of reckoning. I groan like a guilty man. Guilt reddens my face. Spare a suppliant, O God You absolved Mary Magdalene and heard the plea of the thief, to me also you have given hope. My prayers are not worthy, but your merciful goodness grant that I burn not in everlasting fire.Place me among your sheep and separate me from the goats, setting me on your right hand.

Confutatis, Chorus
Confutatis maledictis flammis acribus addictis, voca me cum benedictis.
Oro supplex et acclinis, cor contritum quasi cinis, gere curam mei finis.

When the accursed have been confounded and given over to the bitter flames, call me with the blessed. I pray in supplication on my knees, my heart contrite as the dust, safeguard my fate.

Lacrimosa, Chorus
Lacrimosa dies illa qua resurget ex favilla judicandus homo reus. Huic ergo parce, Deus, pie Jesu Domine, dona eis equiem.

Mournful that day when from the dust shall rise guilty man to be judged. Therefore spare him, O God, merciful Jesus, Lord. Grant them rest; grant them rest.

4. Offertorium

Domine Jesu, Chorus and Solo Quartet
Domine, Jesu Christe, Rex gloriae, libera animas omnium fidelium defunctorum de poenis inferni, et de profundo lacu. Libera eas de ore leonis, ne absorbeat eas tartarus, ne cadant in obscurum, sed signifer sanctus Michael retraesentet eas in lucem sanctam, quam olim Abrahae promisisti et semini ejus.

Lord Jesus Christ, King of glory, deliver the souls of all the faithful departed from the pains of hell and from the bottomless pit. Deliver them from the lion's mouth. Neither let them fall into darkness nor the black abyss swallow them up. And let St. Michael, your standard-bearer, lead them into the holy light which once you promised to Abraham and his seed.

Hostias, Chorus
Hostias et preces, tibi, Domine, laudis offerimus; tu suscipe pro animabus illis, quarum hodie memoriam facimus: fac eas, Domine, de morte transire ad vitam, quam olim Abrahae promisisti et semini ejus.

We offer unto you this sacrifice of prayer and praise. Receive it for those souls whom today we commemorate. Allow them, O Lord, to cross from death into the life which once you promised to Abraham and his seed.

5. Sanctus, Chorus
Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus, Dominus Deus Sabaoth! Pleni sunt coeli et terra gloria tua. Osanna in excelsis.

Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of Sabaoth! Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest.

6. Benedictus, Solo Quartet and Chorus
Benedictus qui venit in nomine Domini. Osanna in excelsis.

Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest!

7. Agnus Dei, Chorus
Agnus Dei, qui tollis peccata mundi, dona eis requiem sempiternam.

Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world, grant them rest eternal.

8. Communio, Chorus and Soprano Solo
Lux aeterna luceat eis, Domine, cum sanctis tuis in aeternum, quia pius es. Requiem aeternam dona eis, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat eis, cum santis tuis in aeternum, quia pius es.

May eternal light shine on them, O Lord. with your saints for ever, because you are merciful. Grant them eternal rest, O Lord, and may perpetual light shine on them, with your saints for ever, because you are merciful.

In Honor of Armed Forces Day
Armed Forces Salute...................................Service songs arr. J. Eilers
Stars and Stripes Forever.............................J.P. Sousa

Requiem Notes
The Requiem was the last music written by Mozart who died in 1791 at the age of 35. The first 8 measures of the Lacrimosa are the last music he wrote. The Requiem was completed by his student Franz Sussmayr, probably according to Mozart’s instructions.

Quotations from Mozart’s Last Year by H.C. Robbins Landon
“Mozart never thought of beginning a Requiem at any other time, and often said to me that he undertook this work with the greatest pleasure, since church music was his favorite genre. He was going to compose it with such fervor that his friends and enemies would study it after his death, ‘If only I can stay alive that long. For this must be my masterpiece and my swan song.’”
--- Constanze Mozart (In a letter after Mozart’s death)

“I then ran back to my distracted sister. Sussmayr was at Mozart’s bedside. The Requiem lay on the quilt and Mozart was explaining to him how, in his opinion, he ought to finish it. His last movement was an attempt to express with his mouth the drum passages in the Requiem. That, I can still hear.”
--- Sophie Haibel (Constanze Mozart’s sister)

•Thanks to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church for providing this sanctuary for our concerts and space every Tuesday evening for Pass Chorale rehearsals.
•Thanks to our faithful and wonderful accompanist, Joan Frost.
•Thanks to concert angels Millie Plueger and Ernest and June Siva for donations to partially support this concert.
•Thanks to Pat Murkland, Jill Trick and Laura Trick for handing our programs and handling our reception.
•Thanks to Pass Chorale Members! Members of the Pass Chorale are volunteers who love this music and put in hours and hours of rehearsal to bring it to our community.
•Thanks to you for supporting fine music in the Pass by your presence at this concert. Please consider making a contribution to support the work of the Pass Chorale. Each concert costs far more than the money we take in from attendees. The Pass Chorale is a non-profit, 501c3 organization. All contributions are tax deductible. See a Chorale member or send contributions to The Pass Chorale, P.O. Box 589, Beaumont, CA 92223.

Pass Chorale Spring Concert 2010

2010-03-31T11:47:00.000-07:00

The Pass Chorale 2010 Spring Concert features music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The beautiful “Exultate Jubilate,” K. 165, a solo motet for soprano and orchestra, will be sung by Rebecca Tomlinson, voice faculty member at California State University, San Bernardino. The motet has three movements, the last is the famous “Alleluia.”

Mozart’s last master-piece, the Requiem, K. 626, was still unfinished when he died at the age of 35. At his death he was working on the Requiem and his sister-in-law later reported that his last conscious moments were spent telling his student, Franz Sussmayr, how to complete the work. His last movement was “an attempt to express the the drum passages with his mouth.” The Requiem was made “popular” by the award-winning film, Amadeus. Soloists for this performance are Rebecca Thomlinson, soprano, Danielle Perrault, alto, Andrew Crane, tenor, and Monty Joham, bass. The soloists, chorale, and orchestra are directed by Ernest Siva.

The Pass Chorale is a community chorus serving the San Gorgonio Pass area and is a 501-c-3, public benefit organization. All donations are tax deductible.

When: May 16, 2010 at 2:30 pm
Where: Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Williams St., Banning.
Tickets: Adults, $15, Seniors and Students, $10
Further information: Ernest Siva, 951-849-4676.

Mozart madness

2010-03-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

The Pass Chorale has been working hard on the Mozart Requiem. We passed out the text and translation so everyone will know what we are singing about. The requiem mass has some different words added to the ordinary mass. For the first time, this week, we sang through the entire Requiem! The first time we sing through the whole work is always an important milestone for us. We are also building our stamina. Director Ernest is also busy recruiting orchestra players. I am working on the program and the press release as well.

First Rehearsals

2010-02-04T15:14:00.000-08:00

The Pass Chorale has had 3 rehearsals. The first was during the big storm so there were several members who weren't there. We handed out music and listened to a recording of the Mozart Requiem. Those of us who had sung it before couldn't resist singing along with the recording. It is such magnificent music! We started on the first two movements, the Introitus and Kyrie. We broke early because of the rain. It turned out that after that rehearsal we (Ernest and June) were stranded for three days. We got flooded in and then snowed in! We got out Saturday afternoon. Luckily, we had stocked up on food. We were offline during much of that time because we have a satellite internet connection. The dish doesn't do well in blizzards!

The second rehearsal was our annual business meeting. We talked about our usual problems of fund-raising, recruiting new singers, and getting more people at our concerts. We are gradually building our audience and local support has been great. We thanked our accompanist, Joan, for her faithful service to the Chorale, and acknowledged a Wonderful $500 donation by former accompanist, Millie! We worked more on the first two movements of the Requiem. We were still missing some members.

Our third rehearsal was like old home week. The only missing member was soprano Pat, gone to help with the birth of her grandchild! Sopranos Cherry and Judy were back. Tenor Linda who had a back operation and had to take time off from Chorale, came in complete with walker. We all cheered her. It was good to get caught up and so good to be all together again. We reviewed the first two movements, spending most time on the Kyrie. Then we started the next 2 movements. It was a wonderful night! We still would like more singers!

Pass Chorale is Singing Again!

2010-01-19T13:52:00.000-08:00

We know its still winter, but the Pass Chorale begins rehearsals for our spring concert tonight, January 19. The featured work is the Mozart Requiem, one of the all-time favorites for singers. This gorgeous music was the last thing Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was working on before he died at the young age of 35. The first eight measures of the “Lacrimosa” movement were the last measures of music he wrote. He may have known he was working on his own requiem.

The Pass Chorale is a community chorus serving the San Gorgonio Pass area. Interested singers are invited to attend a rehearsal, or call director, Ernest, for further info (951-849-4676).

Pass Chorale to resume soon

2010-01-06T16:15:00.000-08:00

The Chorale is now on "vacation." That is, we're suffering from Bach withdrawal. The concert was a wonderful experience. We all had tremendously busy Christmas and New Year celebrations. We will start rehearsals for our spring concert on January 19, 2010, 7pm, Our Saviors Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Williams St., Banning.

We will be passing out scores of the Mozart Requiem. Everyone in the chorale is so excited that we'll be performing this work. It is a favorite among singers, and I think the instrumentalists love it too. A really good alto who had to leave us for the last concert, is returning to do this one.

We welcome anyone with singing experience who would love to learn this music.

Finally Here

2009-12-12T18:43:00.000-08:00

Today we had our dress rehearsal with the orchestra. There were some rough spots as we got used to a different configuration, choir in back, soloists, orchestra, then the director. It is always so exciting to sing with an orchestra. We know most of these players, they come back to play each year. It is a thrill to put voices and instruments together. Tomorrow is the concert, and all of our work will come together at last. I know that after the concert, we'll be singing this music in our heads for days. I call it concert withdrawal. Here is our program.

Pass Chorale Christmas Celebration

Magnificat in D
BWV 243
With Christmas Interpolations
by
Johann Sebastian Bach

Patricia Cordova, Soprano
Veronica Angel, Soprano
Danielle Perrault, Alto
Jonathan Frias, Tenor
Ulises Espinoza, Bass

The Pass Chorale and Orchestra

Directed by Ernest Siva

13 December 2009
2:30 pm

Our Savior’s Lutheran Church
1320 W. Williams Av.
Banning, CA

Magnificat

For soloists, five-part chorus, and orchestra

Christmas Anthems
Joan Frost, Accompanist

I Am So Glad – Norwegian Carol.....................Arranged by Bradley Ellingboe
Philip Rehfeldt, Clarinet

Still, Still Still - Austrian Carol................Arranged by Mark Shepperd

How Far is it to Bethlehem? - English Carol........Arranged by Stan Pethel
Jackie Aronowitz, Flute

Mary’s Little Boy Child - Calypso Carol............Jester Hairston
Monty Joham, Bass
Mike Shea, Percussion

How Should a King Come?.................Carol Owens, Jimmy Owens, Tom Fettke

Carol Sing-along
The Pass Chorale, Orchestra, and Audience

Joy to the World
Hark the Herald Angels Sing
Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming
Away in a Manger
O Little Town of Bethlehem
Silent Night, Holy Night

THANK YOU!
•Thanks to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church for our beautiful concert venue.
• Thanks to our volunteers Pat Murkland and Jill Trick for taking tickets and handing out programs, and Jill Trick and Laura Trick for arranging our post-concert reception.
• Thanks to our wonderful accompanist, Joan Frost, for another great season.
• Thanks to our singers whose hard work and dedication makes this concert possible.
• Thanks to you for coming and supporting fine music in the Pass area!
• Thanks to sponsors Millie Plueger and Ernest & June Siva.

The Pass Chorale
The Pass Chorale is a non-profit 501-c-3 organization. All contributions are tax deductible. Singers are volunteers, but instrumentalists and soloists are paid. Donations at concerts cover only a small part of overall expenses. We would really appreciate your support so we can continue these concerts. Donations can be mailed to: The Pass Chorale, P.O. Box 589, Beaumont, CA 92223.

MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE!

The Pass Chorale
Ernest Siva, Director
Joan Frost, Accompanist

It's Countdown to Concert Time

2009-12-03T10:24:00.000-08:00

Our last rehearsals have focused on singing through the entire program, clearing up problem spots, working with soloists and generally preparing for the concert. It is a wonderful experience to sing this music. Director Ernest has the orchestra completed. We'll have two extra rehearsals, and then the dress rehearsal the day before the concert.

PASS CHORALE CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION 2009

2009-10-27T13:47:00.000-07:00

The Pass Chorale is a community chorus serving the San Gorgonio Pass area. Their annual Celebration of Christmas concert is scheduled for Sunday, December 13, 2009, 2:30pm at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Williams St. in Banning.

The concert features the Magnificat by Johann Sebastian Bach, with Christmas interpolations. This is a festive work for soloists, 5 part chorus, and orchestra. It is based on the biblical text, Mary’s song of praise. The Magnificat follows the biblical text in Latin. The interpolations, in German and Latin, were added by Bach especially for Christmas performances.

Soloists are Patricia Cordova , soprano (winner of the 2009 Pass Has Talent competition), Veronica Angel, soprano, Danielle Perrault, alto, Jonathan Arana, tenor, and Ulises Espinoza, Bass. Soloists Angel, Perrault, Arana and Espinoza are all students in the choral and voice program at California State University, San Bernardino. We are pleased to have them join us for this performance. Soloist Cordova is a regular member of the Pass Chorale. The soloists, chorus, and orchestra are directed by Ernest Siva.

The second part of the program is a sampling of Christmas anthems featuring the Chorale, accompanist, Joan Frost, and the orchestra. The concert ends with the traditional carol sing-along featuring the audience, the chorale and the orchestra. It is guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit!

Suggested donation is $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors. All donations to the Pass Chorale are tax deductible.

Pass Chorale Director, Ernest Siva, grew up in Banning and has directed the Chorale for 14 years. He has Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Music Education and Chorale Music from USC. He taught music in the public schools and American Indian Music ant UCLA. He is founder and President of Dorothy Ramon Learning Center in Banning, a cultural center aimed at saving and sharing the music, languages, traditional arts and cultures of southern California Indian communities.

Fifteenth and Sixteenth Rehearsals

2009-10-25T17:50:00.000-07:00

We've spent most of our time in these rehearsals on "woodshedding," as the music folks call it. That means making sure we are all secure on our parts. Ernest particularly likes isolating two parts and having them sing together, e.g., second sopranos and tenors, altos and basses, first sopranos and altos. This way we see how the music fits together. We also get an appreciation for all the parts. Often in these sessions we practice singing each other's parts. This also gives us greater appreciation for the entire work. At the end we put all 5 parts together.

We were having particular trouble with the last movement where we all sing something different, only joining in the last few measures. It is a matter of careful counting and knowing your part cold! At the end of the rehearsal, we did it correctly. Now let's hope we can do it again, at our next rehearsal.

Ernest has been busy lining up instrumentalists and soloists. There will be some students joining us from the Cal State San Bernardino choral program.

December 13 will be here before we know it. It is getting to be crunch time as we prepare for the wonderful Christmas program.

Fourteenth Rehearsal

2009-10-07T12:54:00.000-07:00

I didn't blog about our 13th rehearsal because it was like a step backwards. We were missing several members, so we limped through most of the Bach. But our 14th rehearsal was wonderful. We began with the announcement that Soprano Pat Cordova won the Pass Has Talent contest. We were all very excited. Pat wasn't there so we'll have more details next week. We know there were many contestants, the contest has gone on for several weeks. Our member Pat won the Grand Prize. Congratulations, Pat! We are proud of you.

We started with our anthems, and they are beginning to really sound nice. We're still having a bit of trouble with the Jester Hairston, Mary's Boy Child. The syncopation and going back and forth for multiple verses is still confusing. We're improving though.

We also got all the way through the Bach. We're doing much better on the Christmas interpolations. All in all, a great rehearsal. We love this music!

Twelfth Rehearsal

2009-09-25T11:17:00.001-07:00

We accomplished another milestone at our 12th rehearsal. We sang through our entire program for the first time! We are learning this music. Now, more and more, we'll be focusing on the finer points - dynamics, tempi, pronounciation, tone. There is still lots of work ahead, but we all felt good when the rehearsal ended!

Eleventh Rehearsal

2009-09-09T11:42:00.000-07:00

We returned to action after a week off. We started with our Christmas anthems. The first was the Norwegian carol, "I am so glad." We worked on some of the trickier sections, and alto Robin gave us the name of a woman who knows Norwegian. We may be able to sing in Norwegian yet! The carol, Still, Still, Still is beginning to sound very nice. It is a gorgeous arrangement and a flute will accompany the choir (as well as keyboard).

We worked on the rhythms of the calypso, Mary's Boy Child, arranged by Jester Hairston. I remember hearing this carol every year when we were students at USC. The annual Christmas concert always featured two carols, sung by the Chamber Singers, directed by Charles Hirt. One was Mary's Boy Child. The solo part was highly prized, and I remeber Ernest's roommate, tenor John Fleming, did it more than once. The other was a soprano solo with choir, "Who will buy my sweet blooming lavender?" There was high competition for that solo too. I don't know of an arrangement for the Lavender carol, maybe it was Charles Hirt's own. Those two carols meant it was really Christmas again.

We then started the Magnificat at the beginning and got about half way through before the rehearsal ended. We'll start at that point next week!

Tenth Rehearsal

2009-08-28T09:57:00.000-07:00

Accompanist Joan was back with us and we focused on the Interpolations in the Magnificat. We made great progress on both the text and the notes. We then went back to the beginning. It felt good to hear the piece gradually coming together. It is so wonderful when you feel like you’re actually making music. There were some moments like that as we practiced the SSA trio, Sucepit Israel (He has helped his servant, Israel).

Tenor Charlie was back with us and reported that his slow-growing tumor will be monitored only, at this time. Evidently the risks of surgery are great and could affect the good ear too. At least we know he’s going to the best possible place for treatment. He said it feels strange to sing, but he’s game to do it. We are thankful.

We spent the last part of the rehearsal on a Norwegian carol, I am so Glad. We hope to sing the first verse in Norwegian, but we haven't attempted it yet.

We won't have rehearsal next week. Director Ernest is having a colonoscopy the next day. Believe me, he would rather be singing!

Ninth Rehearsal

2009-08-19T15:15:00.000-07:00

Our ninth rehearsal seemed like our second or third as we started. Accompanist Joan couldn't be there so we had a wonderful substitute, Jolene. We started where we left off last rehearsal, with the last two movements. We worked hard on them last time and felt good when the rehearsal ended. This time, we were back at square one, as if it was all new again (difficult music is like that). We worked though it again, and we all broke into applause when we finally nailed it! Now, we'll see how we do next week...

We again worked on the German interpolations, we needed more work on those too.

Soprano Cherry passed around photos of her daughters (8 mos and 3). They were a smash hit. Ernest invited everyone to a showing of "Sing Birds," a Sean Owens film about the efforts of Cahuilla people to keep this music alive.

Tenor Charlie wasn't there, and we found out that he has a tumor (benign) in his left ear. He is on his way to the House Institute this week. That's the best place he could go. I've heard about them ever since I was a student at USC. I don't think there's a better place to treat him. We'll all be praying for him and cheering him on.

Singing in a chorus is about more than music, its about teamwork with fellow singers, almost like a team sport. We all have our distinct voices, but when they come together and actually make music (the director is rather like a coach), it feels like scoring a touchdown (football season soon)! We also come to care about our "teammates."

Eighth Rehearsal

2009-08-12T14:50:00.000-07:00

Tenor Charlie was back with us, and we were all so happy to see him! He cannot hear in his left ear, but he wanted to try singing. He has missed it. He’s a bit behind because he’s missed several rehearsals, but he made great progress and we hope he’ll keep at it.

We rehearsed in the COOL room, the Fellowship Hall. Everyone liked it. We think this room is better in lots of ways, more comfortable and we can hear each other better.

We worked on the Magnificat, starting near the end again. The last section is particularly difficult and more like an instrumental work than a vocal one. Each part is different, and the rhythms are tricky for each. We tried each part separately, then put them together, two at a time. When we put it all together, the sopranos reached the end first. Not a good thing. We were all madly counting, tried again, and we finally all ended at the same time. This was our victory for the night.

We started at the beginning again, and it was wonderful to sing the first chorus, we now actually know it!

Singing this work is so inspiring and uplifting. Bass Tony reports that after rehearsals he sometimes has trouble getting to sleep. We’ve had that experience too. Talking with Soprano Judy after the rehearsal, we remarked about how universal this music is. There is a Bach Society in Japan that may be working on the Magnificat too. They have made recordings that are absolutely wonderful!

Seventh Rehearsal

2009-08-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

Our new keys let us into the church, but a few seconds later, the alarm went off. We found out they had changed the alarms that afternoon and the old codes weren't viable any more. The alarm company called Deacon Bob who came and turned off the alarm and gave Ernest his new secret code to arm and disarm the alarm. We then turned the AC on in the sanctuary, but 2 hours later it still wasn't very cool. We decided to try having our rehearsal in the fellowship hall. It was cool, good light, tables to put our music on, we could hear each other well, and everyone liked it a lot.

We worked on the Magnificat, started near the end and, for the first time, sang through to the end. Now we've actually gone through the entire work, always an important milestone. Now none of it will be "new" anymore, we'll just work to make it better. Tenor Charlie has been missing because he developed a sudden hearing problem in one ear. We miss his voice and his wonderful sense of humor and hope he will be back with us soon.

Sixth Rehearsal

2009-07-30T09:31:00.000-07:00

Our sixth rehearsal was HOT! Even though we turned the air conditioning on an hour ahead, it never was working enough to cool us off. Singing warms you up anyway, and with the ineffective AC, we were all singing and sweating, fanning ourselves with our scores when not singing!

We started practicing the Bach in the order that will sing it, that means inserting the interpolations where they belong. We got through 4 choruses and 3 interpolations, even under less than ideal conditions. We hope that by the next rehearsal the AC will work better or the heat wave will be over!

The Fifth Rehearsal that was

2009-07-23T14:49:00.000-07:00

After the chaos of last week, the Pass Chorale met for our fifth rehearsal. After lots of chatter about our mishaps, Ernest invited everyone to the Dragonfly Gala. Then we opened our music to the first movement of the Bach Magnificat. Yes, we did remember it, and even with our reduced forces (many away), it sounded good. We started practicing the music in its proper order, which means putting the Christmas Interpolations in the piece where we’ll sing them. In the score they are all in an appendix. Two of the interpolations are in German. We spent some time going over the words with help from Bass, Monty, who knows German well.

We ended our rehearsal on Fecit Potenciam, “he has shown strength with his arm.” It’s a difficult movement, but we kept at it until all parts could sing it at the same time. We actually went over time and didn’t have time for any of the anthems.

Fifth Rehearsal that wasn't

2009-07-16T09:54:00.000-07:00

It all started when our car broke down at a restaurant where we were having a pre-rehearsal treat. We had planned to go from there to the church to open things up, turn on the AC so it would be cool when the rehearsal started. Luckily the restaurant was near the church, so Ernest scaled 2 fences and went to open the church. There was a sign on the door - "Keys changed, call deacon." Turns out this was just the beginning of our problems. We called the deacon, got the answering machine.

In the meantime, we called AAA to deal with our car. Ernest was supposed to be at City Council to receive a proclamation from the City of Banning congratulating him on his honorary doctorate and recognizing his contributions to the community. I had to stay with the car while neighbor Pat took Ernest to the meeting. Meanwhile, we had to notify Chorale members not to come since we couldn't get into the church. My cell phone battery was low so I called Vice President, Steve who came down to the restaurant, got our roster and went back home to make the calls.

The AAA folks arrived and worked on the car. They couldn't solve the problem, it was after hours for the car dealer so we couldn't get help from them, so we decided to leave the car there and deal with it in the morning. When our neighbor and Ernest got back from the ceremony we went by the church to leave a sign on the door in case any chorale member showed up.

After that we could relax a bit. It was good that we can call on neighbor Pat and VP Steve to help us out of this dilemma. On to the next rehearsal. We would rather be singing Bach!

Fourth Rehearsal

2009-07-09T10:42:00.000-07:00

We started on the third choral movement, Fechit Potenciam (He has shown strength with his arm). Alto Charlene requested that we start work on this difficult movement. Not only are there lots of runs and lots of words, but the choir only sings the same words at the same time near the very end. We struggled, but we managed to get through it. It made us feel good to go back to the first movement (Magnificat – My soul magnifies the Lord) and sing it straight through. It sounded good.

We also practiced the second choral movement (Omnes generations – All Generations) and got through it with just a few stops and starts. We are definitely making progress. We went over the first Interpolation (Vom Himmel Hoch – From Heaven he came) and again practiced the German and Bach’s wonderful chorale arrangement of this hymn.

At the end of each rehearsal we practice the shorter anthems. We concentrated on Mary’s Boy Child, a spiritual arranged by Jester Hairston. It has lots of syncopated rhythms, and is lots of fun to sing. Both Ernest and I remember Jester Hairston, a wonderful musician who visited high schools all over the country. He made it to both Banning High and Glendale High where we both got to sing while he directed and introduced us to his music. It seems that he had the goal of saving and sharing this music. For both of us, the day he visited was an unforgettable experience. We never forgot his warmth and enthusiasm for music. He made us all love it too. Saving and sharing is also the goal of Dorothy Ramon Learning Center, which aims to save and share the languages, music, histories and cultures of southern California Indians. For further information, check out their website.

Third Rehearsal

2009-07-02T08:24:00.000-07:00

Tenor Charlie came back to us for our third rehearsal. During the summer people travel and some are always missing. We were all glad to have him back!

We got through all of the first movement of the Bach and it actually sounded like music! It isn’t perfect yet, but its definitely progress. We started the second choral movement and made progress on that too.

We began work on one of the Interpolations. Bach added these to the Magnificat text for performances at Christmas. The first one is based on Martin Luther hymn Von Himmel hoch (He came from Heaven). It is in German so we get to sing yet another language. The first and second sopranos sing together on this movement, the only time this happens. It also is the easiest soprano part in the entire piece. We sing the melody very slowly and the altos, tenors, and bases sing more difficult, moving parts.

Ernest announced that the Banning City Council will present him with a proclamation congratulating him on his honorary doctorate on July 14. We would have to start our rehearsal late that night since this is on a Tuesday. The Chorale immediately wanted to go and sing! This should be lots of fun.

At the end of the rehearsal we went over a beautiful carol, “How Far is it to Bethlehem” arranged by Stan Pethel. It tells the story of shepherd children who travel far to see the baby Jesus in the manger. It is so wonderful to rehearse this music. We get to actually perform it only once, but it is during the rehearsals that we get to know it well and develop a real understanding and love for it.

Second Rehearsal

2009-06-25T08:42:00.000-07:00

Cherry and Judy, our second sopranos, both came to this second rehearsal. Everyone was so glad to see them! They are so important because the Bach Magnificat has first and second soprano parts all the way through! It is SSATB instead of the usual SATB. Second sopranos have a very important part in this piece. A new Tenor, Polly, tried us out too. We'll have 3 female tenors in our growing section.

We broke into sections, SSA practiced together in one room and TB practiced in another. We got together and got all the way through the first movement! It was fun to begin to see how it all fits together. Our accompanist, Joan, was back too. Having her play the accompaniment helps a lot.

Everyone in the Chorale signed a wonderful card congratulating Ernest on his Honorary Doctorate in Fine Arts from Cal State, San Bernardino.

Come by and join in the fun!

Pass Chorale Artistic Director Receives Honorary Doctorate

2009-06-22T14:01:00.000-07:00

Pass Chorale Artistic Director, Ernest Siva was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Fine Arts by California State University, San Bernardino in a beautiful commencement ceremony on June 20. Read more about it at the Dorothy Ramon Learning Center blog.

First Rehearsal

2009-06-17T13:11:00.000-07:00

The Pass Chorale came together for the first rehearsal of the Christmas Concert season. Two new tenors and one new alto joined us! New music was handed out, and everyone was excited to learn that our major work would be the Bach Magnificat.

Our faithful accompanist, Joan, was unable to come to this first rehearsal, but one of our altos, Robin, was kind enough to play parts for us. We spent most of the rehearsal struggling through the first movement of the Bach. It is quite difficult, with lots of complicated runs. There are also five parts (two soprano parts) as opposed to the usual four. It will take lots of work, but that’s what makes learning this music so great. We work very hard on it and get to know it really well.

Toward the end of the rehearsal we got a look at some of the Christmas anthems we’ll be singing during the second part of the program. We sight-read through a Norwegian carol, “I am so Glad,” and an Austrian carol, “Still, Still, Still” that has string, flute, and oboe parts as well. We had lots of fun with a Jester Hairston arrangement of “Mary’s Little Boy Child” and a shepherds carol, “How Far is it to Bethlehem.”

It was a good first rehearsal, good to be singing together again, good to see old friends and new.

There seems to be something special about Christmas music. Even in the middle of June, it gives you a good feeling. Join us and learn this wonderful music!

Singers Wanted

2009-06-08T10:32:00.001-07:00

Attention Singers

During the hot, hot days of summer you could stay cool by singing Christmas music! The Pass Chorale, a community chorus in the Pass area, will begin rehearsing for its annual Christmas concert on Tuesday, June 16, 2009.

The major work we’ll be learning is the Magnificat by J.S. Bach. This is a beautiful work with wonderful solos and choruses. The text is Mary’s song of praise. Bach added special “interpolations” especially for the Christmas season.

In addition, we’ll be learning several Christmas anthems and carols. The concert is scheduled for December 13.

If you love Christmas music and have singing experience, please consider joining the Chorale. Rehearsals are on Tuesday evenings, 7 – 8:30 pm, at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Williams St., Banning. For further information, call Artistic Director Ernest Siva (951-849-4676.

Wonderful Concert, New Season

2009-05-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

We are all still singing the Haydn Harmony Mass in our heads. It is always a bit sad in the days after the concert. We put so much rehearsal into each major work, and then we only perform it once. Rehearsals are always wonderful learning experiences where we get to know a composer and his work very well. We all wish we could perform it again, but it is expensive enough hiring the orchestra and soloists to perform it once. I'm sure other community choruses feel the same. I think the audience really appreciated the Indian music too. And the grand finale was a salute to the Armed Services for Armed Services Day. It was touching as members of each branch of the service stood as their song was sung.

So it is on to the Christmas season now. You might think it strange to be talking about Christmas when its still spring. But the Pass Chorale will begin practicing music for our Christmas concert on June 16. We know that we'll be rehearsing several beautiful Christmas anthems. Our major work will probably be the Bach Magnificat, but Ernest always reserves the right to change his mind.

If you are interested in singing in a community chorus, please check out the Pass Chorale. We meet on Tuesday evenings, 7 - 8:30 pm, Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Banning. Christmas concert rehearsals begin June 16.

For further information email us or call Artistic Director, Ernest Siva at 951-849-4676.

Pass Chorale to sing songs first sung centuries ago in the San Gorgonio Pass

2009-05-05T15:30:00.000-07:00

BANNING — Every spring, the Pass Chorale performs a great classical work, accompanied by a full orchestra. This year, the Chorale is adding different classics to its May 17 concert: traditional American Indian music, including songs from the region’s Cahuilla and Serrano nations.

It’s a natural progression for the Pass Chorale artistic director, Ernest H. Siva of Banning. Siva, who holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music education and choral music from the University of Southern California, also is a Cahuilla and Serrano elder and a longtime culture bearer. He often shares traditional Indian songs with others as leader of the nonprofit Dorothy Ramon Learning Center, which saves and shares Southern California’s American Indian cultures, languages, history and music and other traditional arts.

Siva likes to tell the Chorale concert audiences that great music is like architecture, each composition to be savored in its details and artistry. The two dozen members of the Chorale, who hail from across Inland Southern California, have been practicing more than four months for this year’s planned performance of “Harmony Mass” by Franz Joseph Haydn. Siva’s wife, June, who sings soprano, said, “As the name implies, this Mass for soloists, chorus and orchestra is full of wonderful melodies and harmonies.” The Chorale plans performing this seldom-performed classical work as a special tribute to the famous Austrian composer on the 200th anniversary of his death in 1809.

The program’s second half will feature music that is older — much older. The Chorale will perform songs of American Indians of the Southwest, especially the local Cahuilla and Serrano nations. These include songs that teach, such as the “Little Bear Song” of the Serrano, and lullabies such as the Cahuilla, “Coyote’s Waiting,” sung in their original Indian languages.

These traditional songs from the First Cultures were among the music first heard in Inland Southern California countless years ago. Director Siva also arranged two songs, a Zuni Sunrise Song and a Cahuilla Bird Song, as anthems. The original versions of both will be sung first. No matter that his “tribal regalia” at the concert will be his Chorale director’s tuxedo. Siva said he sees an opportunity for all to share and enjoy this traditional music, part of our national heritage.

The concert is planned for Sunday, May 17, 2009, 2:30 pm at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Williams St., Banning, CA 92220. Tickets are adults, $15; seniors and students, $10; proceeds help support the concert expenses, organizers said.

For more information call Ernest Siva, 951-849-4676, or e-mail siva@dishmail.net. The Pass Chorale is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has been sharing great music since the 1950s with audiences of all ages. The full orchestra that joins the Chorale in its winter and spring concerts is comprised of professional musicians from throughout Southern California.

Concert, May 17

2009-04-01T09:42:00.000-07:00

The Pass Chorale Spring Concert is scheduled for Sunday, May 17, 2009, 2:30 pm, Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Williams, Banning, CA. Our featured work celebrates the 200th anniversary of the death of Franz Josef Haydn. The Chorale and Orchestra will perform one of his last works, the Harmony Mass. As the name implies, it is full of beautiful melodies and harmonies. But wait, there's more! The second part of the program features songs of American Indians of the southwest, especially the local Cahuilla and Serrano tribes. Artistic Director arranged this music for chorus. This is a rare opportunity to hear this music, part of our national heritage.
We hope you will join us at the concert (there's a nice reception afterwards too)!
Suggested donation: Adults - $15, Students and Seniors - $10
Further info 951-849-4676.

Singers still wanted

2009-02-04T09:55:00.000-08:00

We have begun rehearsals of the Haydn Harmony Mass. We've only had a few rehearsals and we have several new singers that recently joined. There's still time to get in on the fun. In addition to the Haydn mass, we're learning some American Indian music from California and the southwest. We have a great time learning this wonderful music. Please consider joining us. We welcome all parts, sopranos, altos, tenors, basses! Call Ernest Siva or email for further info.

Singers Wanted!

2008-12-18T15:14:00.000-08:00

The Pass Chorale will resume rehearsals on Tuesday, January 20, 2009. We are changing our rehearsal location to Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 1320 W. Williams St., Banning. We will begin working on music for our spring concert in May. The featured work will be the Harmony Mass by F.J. Haydn. This is a beautiful work with lovely harmonies as the name implies.

The Chorale performs two major concerts per year, spring and winter, plus occasional performances around the community. We invite all parts, sopranos, altos, tenors, and basses, with special emphasis on tenors and altos. If you have singing experience (high school choir? Church choir?) please consider joining us. We welcome high school students and adults of all ages. Call or email for further information or come to a rehearsal and try singing with us. It is a wonderful experience to learn masterworks and then perform them. We have fun too!

Thanks, and Merry Christmas

2008-12-15T09:59:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who attended our concert on December 14, it was a wonderful musical celebration of Christmas. The carol-singalong at the end got everyone in the Christmas spirit. It was great fun for the singers and the instrumentalists too. As usual, donations at the concert cover only a small part of concert expenses. If you want to support this non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, send checks to:

Pass Chorale
P.O. Box 589
Beaumont, CA 92223

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
The Pass Chorale

Pass Chorale Celebration of Christmas 2008

2008-12-01T09:52:00.000-08:00

The Pass Chorale will present two concerts in Banning this year. The full concert, with orchestra is scheduled for December 14. Details are described in a previous post. An abbreviated concert featuring some selections from the Rutter Magnificat plus the anthems and carols will be presented on December 7, 2008, 2:00pm at Grace Lutheran Church, 1000 W. Wilson, Banning, CA.

The full concert program is seen below.

Magnificat
By John Rutter

1. Magnificat
Magnificat anima mea dominum et exultavit spiritus meus in deo salutari meo. Quia respexit humilitatem ancillae suae, ecce enim ex hoc beatam me dicent omnes generationes.
(My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior. For He has regarded the lowliness of his hand-maiden. For, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.)

2. Of a Rose (15th Century English Carol)
Hearken to me, both old and young, How this rose began to spring.
A fairer rose to mine liking, in all this world ne know I none.

Five branches of that rose there been, the which be both fair and sheen.
The rose is called Mary, heaven’s queen. Out of her bosom a blossom sprang.

The first branch was of great honour, that blest Marie should bear the flow’r.
Then came and angel from heaven’s tower to break the devil’s bond.

The second branch was great of might, that sprang upon a Christmas night.
The star shone over Bethlem bright, that man should see it both day and night.

The third branch did spring and spread. Three kinges then the branch gan led
Unto our lady in her child-bed, into Bethlem that branch sprang right.

The fourth branch it sprang to hell, the devil’s power for to fell.
That no soul therein should dwell, the branch so blessed fully sprang.

The fifth branch, it was so sweet. It sprang to heav’n both crop and root.
Therein to dwell and be our bote (salvation), so blessedly it sprang.

Pray we to her with great honour, she that bare the blessed flow’r,
To be our help and our succour, and shield us from the fiendes bond.

3. Quia fecit
Quia fecit mihi magna qui potens est,et sanctum nomen ejus.
*Sanctus, sanctus, sanctus Dominus Deus Sabaoth. Pleni sunt coeli et terra gloria tua. Hosanna in excelsis. *(from the Ordinary of the Mass)
(For he that is mighty has magnified me, and holy is His name.
Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest.)

4. Et misericordia
Et misericordia ejus a progenie in progenies timentibus eum.
(And His mercy is on them that fear Him from generation to generation.)

5. Fecit potentiam
Fecit potentiam in brachio suo, dispersit superbos mente cordis sui.
Deposuit potentes de sede, et exaltavit humiles.
(He has shown strenght with his arm. He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has cast down the mighty from their seats, and exalted the humble and meek.)

6. Esurientes
Esurientes implevit bonis et divites dimisit inanes. Sucepit Israel puerum suum,
recordatus misericordie suae. Sicut locutus est ad patres nostros,Abraham et semini ejus in secula.
(He has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He remembering His mercy, has helped his servant, Israel. As He promised to our fathers, Abraham and his seed forever.

7. Gloria
Gloria patri et filio et spiritu sancto.
(Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.)
*Sancta Maria, succurre miseris, iuva pusillanimes, refove flebiles: ora pro populo, interveni pro clero, intercede pro devotofemineo esxu, sentiant omnes tuum iuvamen, quicumque tuum sanctum implorant auxilium. Alleluia.
*(Antiphon at the Feasts of the Blessed Virgin Mary)
(Holy Mary, succour those in need, help the faint-hearted, support the weak, pray for the laity, assist the clergy, intercede for all devout women. May all feel the power of your help, whoevery prays for your holy aid. Alleluia.)

8. Sicut erat
Sicut erat in principio et nunc et semper, et in secula seculorum. Amen.
(As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.)

Christmas Anthems and Carols

Wexford Carol……………………………………………………………arr. John Rutter
Monte Joham, Baritone

O Come, O Come Emmanuel……...…….Gregorian chant arr. Alice Parker, Robert Shaw

O Nata Lux……………………….………………..……..………….Morten Lauridsen
O nata lux de lumine, Jesu reemptor saeculi, dignare clemens supplicum, laudes preches que sumere.
Qui carne quondam contegi dignatus es pro perditis. Nos membra confer effici, tui beati corporis.
(O born of light, Jesus, Redeemer of the world, Mercifullly deem worthy and accept the praises and prayers of your supplicants.Thou who once deigned to be clothed in flesh for the sake of the lost ones, grant us to be made members of your holy body.)

What Sweeter Music…………………………………...……………John Rutter

How Unto Bethlehem………….……….Italian carol arr. Alice Parker, Robert Shaw

How Should a King Come?.......................Carol Owens, Jimmy Owens, Tom Fettke

Carol Sing-Along

Once in Royal David’s City
Hark, the Herald Angels Sing
What Child is This?
Angels, We Have Heard on High
Jingle Bells
O Come, All Ye Faithful
Silent Night

Pass Chorale Christmas Concert

2008-10-25T16:40:00.000-07:00

The Pass Chorale will present a Christmas concert on Sunday, December 14, 2008. This annual Celebration of Christmas will feature Magnificat (Mary’s song of praise) by British composer, John Rutter. This composition is full of lively rhythms, beautiful soprano solos and choruses. The program also includes several Christmas anthems by John Rutter, Morten Lauridsen, and other composers. The annual carol sing-along, with the Chorale, audience, and orchestra, guarantees to put you in the Christmas spirit. Please join us and invite your friends.

Concert: A Celebration of Christmas 2008

When: Sunday, December 14, 2008, 2:30 pm

Where: Our Savior’s Lutheran Church
1320 W. Williams St.
Banning, CA 92220

Suggested Donation: Adults. $15
Seniors and Students. $10

Further Information: Ernest Siva 951-849-4676
siva@dishmail.net
www.passchorale.blogspot.com

Magnificat by John Rutter

2008-07-02T09:01:00.000-07:00

We're beginning rehearsals on the Magnificat by British composer, John Rutter. Rutter is a composer familiar to all choir singers. He's written countless anthems as well as several major works with orchestra. Magnificat is one of these. It is a setting of Mary's song. The text begins : "My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior. For He that is mighty has magnified me..." Most of the work is in latin, but one movement is in English, a lovely carol. If you sing, come join us as we begin learning this beautiful music.

We've had three rehearsals so far and have focused on the carols and anthems mentioned in the last post. It is great fun learning these too.

Cool Christmas Music

2008-06-17T10:18:00.000-07:00

As the heat of summer hits, the Pass Chorale is singing some very cool Christmas music! We're preparing for our December 14 Christmas Concert. The major work to be performed with orchestra is "Magnificat" by British composer, John Rutter. In addition, we're learning several beautiful anthems and carols. Some are: the Wexford Carol, arranged by John Rutter, O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, arranged by Alice Parker and Robert Shaw, O Nata Lux by Morten Lauridson, What Sweeter Music by John Rutter, and How Unto Bethlehem, arranged by Alice Parker and Robert Shaw. There may be more too! If this music sounds good to you, please join us! Its a great way to keep cool during the hot summer.

Welcome

2008-06-14T18:43:00.000-07:00

On Mother's Day of this year, the Pass Chorale performed the complete Handel's Messiah. It was a first, as far as I know, in the town of Banning to have this wonderful piece heard! It was also a first for many of the performers, orchestra and singers, to perform the whole work. There is the consideration of making it an annual affair, since it is so loved. It would build into an extra special event were we to do this. We will deliberate about this.

In 1990, my church choir at Westwood Hills Congregational Church in West L.A. teamed up with the L.A. Baroque Orchestra to do the complete work. The orchestra uses period style instruments, tuned to almost a half step lower, the result was wonderful. Easier to sing, from a tessitura standpoint and the style of play of the strings, very special. A valveless trumpet on The Trumpet Shall Sound? You'd have to see it to believe it!

Please join us, if you like singing works of the Masters. - ES