After an abrupt Covid shutdown, a cancelled concert series, installation of a new artistic director, vaccination and mask mandates, constant re-evaluation of rehearsal protocols, and a new scheduled then re-scheduled concert series, choral music will once again fill the air on the Oregon coast.
The Central Coast Chorale is offering three performances of their concert “Peace by Piece” at three venues next week:
- 7 p.m. Friday, July 29 at the Yachats Commons;
- 7 p.m. Saturday, July 30 at the Chapel by the Sea Presbyterian Church in Lincoln City; and
- 4 p.m. Sunday, July 31 First Presbyterian Church of Newport.
The concerts’ theme is “Affirming the cycle of life, death, grief, and healing with singing.” Artistic director Rhodd Caldwell said he wanted to create something especially relevant to the current socio-political climate.
“As I was pondering a theme for this concert and going through our choral library I came upon a work entitled ‘Peace by Piece’,” he said. “The text of the song, set in a gospel vein, affirms that despite what seems to be an impossible task, the work of peacemaking is something that all of us can do every day. It’s all about the little choices we make that lead to both inner peace as well as peace in the greater world. “
The Chorale often has narration during their concerts, providing backstory on composers and the individual pieces. Jason Holland, executive director of Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, will provide narration for the three concerns. The chorale will be accompanied by pianist Milo Graamans and guest percussionist Rick LaDoux.
In addition to the chorale, the new mixed ensemble Sound Waves will perform two pieces under the direction of assistant director Cameron Garner.
Admission is a suggested donation of $10 per person.
“It’s been a long haul,” says Katrina Theodore, board vice president. “Like all the performing arts organizations, we’ve been working, researching, and waiting for the appropriate time to resume doing this thing we love.”
To long-time chorale supporters this group will look a bit different. At 35 singers the chorale is smaller than usual. Roughly half of the singers are new. Some familiar faces have withdrawn due to the uncertainty of Covid. All chorale personnel are fully vaccinated and some singers choose to wear masks for additional protection.
More information is on the Central Coast Chorale’s website.
