Pasadena Master Chorale holiday concerts Dec. 11 and 12

Judging by its holiday concert this year, the Pasadena Master Chorale (PMC) consists not only of singers but party planners. For starters, the Chorale describes its upcoming performance, “Home for the Holidays” – which will take place Saturday, December 11 at 7:30 p.m. at First Congregational Church in Pasadena and Sunday, December 12 at 4 p.m. at Altadena Community Church in Altadena – as “a Christmas party for our family and yours.”

But the Chorale’s definition of “our family” extends much further into the community than the 80 members who sing in the Chorale.

“We look forward to introducing our audience and supporters to some of Pasadena’s most talented young artists,” says PMC’s founder and music director Jeffrey Bernstein, whose outreach into the community has included conducting the high school combined choir for the Pasadena Unified School District’s Music Festival last spring.

“Mentoring young musicians is a key component of Pasadena Master Chorale’s mission,” continues Bernstein. “In fact, our commitment to offering opportunities to students in our community continues to grow. We not only showcase students in our concerts on a regular basis but, as public funding for arts education withers, we’re working more closely with the Pasadena Unified School District to bring choral music to the schools.”

“Home for the Holidays” is a case in point. The concerts will feature music of the season from the 20th century, including O Magnum Mysterium by Morten Lauridsen, Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Noam Elkies, A Hymn to the Virgin by Benjamin Britten and excerpts from Gian Carlo Menotti’s one act holiday opera Amahl and the Night Visitors. However, Bernstein has also programmed works that will introduce PMC audiences and supporters to two very talented young musicians.

“While we’re focusing this year on music from the 20th century, I found I couldn’t exclude a classic like O Holy Night, ” Bernstein explains with a smile. “But I’ve arranged this version with a very special purpose in mind – to showcase the artistry of our 2010 Vocal Solo Competition winner, Muir High School graduate Michael Arceneaux. When Michael sings, it will be a very poignant, powerful and uplifting experience for PMC. His performance embodies what our mission is all about, creating music with the community.”

This solo appearance with PMC is equally meaningful for Arceneaux. “Being allowed to work with the PMC is the greatest honor any student could ask for,” says the CSUN freshman. “The professionalism in the PMC is where the experience lies. The PMC has created within me a love for classical music and the learning experience with them is truly like no other.”

An even younger student will join PMC at “Home for the Holidays” as well. Cellist Harry Wilde Greer – an 8th grader at Pasadena Waldorf School – will accompany the ensemble during Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Christmas Carols.

“I heard the Pasadena Master Chorale perform Mozart's Requiem last season, and it made a huge impression on me,” recalls Greer, who plays not in one but three orchestras – Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestra, the Pasadena Waldorf School Orchestra and Project C.E.L.L.O. Orchestra – and whose future plans include attending the LA County High School for the Arts, then pursuing a career in music. “And now to be performing with them is such an amazing opportunity. I feel honored."

Nor are Arceneaux and Greer the sole students performing at “Home for the Holidays”. Five students who joined PMC’s Apprentice program are now full-time members of the Chorale. These students – from PCC, CSUN, Los Angeles County High School for the Arts, John Muir High School and Pasadena High School – have been invited to sing not only the entire concert but the entire season, having demonstrated excellent musicianship and commitment this past season, in 2009-2010. Additionally, singers from Pasadena High School, John Muir High School, Blair High School and Washington Middle School will join PMC for two selections, Vaughan Williams’ Wassail and Bach’s Dona Nobis Pacem.

“And the excitement continues! Twelve Pasadena High School students will perform their own songs at the concerts, under the direction of Lavone Seetal,” says Cindy Abbott, Director of Education. “Plus Muir and Blair High Schools will bring their entire choruses to perform, so that the students will see what their peers have been experiencing with PMC. Our students’ artistry and commitment to music are so inspiring! I can’t think of a more perfect way to celebrate the holiday season than to have this opportunity to share the students’ joy in performing.”

Tickets for “Home for the Holidays” are reasonably priced at $20 and may be purchased by visiting the Pasadena Master Chorale’s website, www.pasadenamasterchorale.org, through any Chorale member, or at the door. Complete details on concerts, ticket prices and venue locations can be found on the website as well. Recorded information is available by phone at 626.208.0009.

First Congregational Church is located at 464 East Walnut Street in Pasadena (91104).

Altadena Community Church is located at 943 East Altadena Drive in Altadena (91101).