Jul 26 Friday
Experience the beauty and power of world-class choral music during the Santa Fe Desert Chorale's 42nd annual Summer Festival! Singing in the beautiful acoustic space of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, 24 of the nation's best professional ensemble singers will gather to Santa Fe to present one of the largest choral events in the country. The Festival will include three brand new concert programs. Visit desertchorale.org for the full schedule of events.
Out of This WorldSpend an evening soaring the skies with our twenty-four professional Desert Chorale artists as they traverse extraterrestrial beauties, the thrills of flight, and the miracle of human connection. From classical masterpieces to popular tunes by Dolly Parton and others, there’s something for everyone during this interstellar program. Don’t miss the chance to hear beloved works from our album The Road Home live in concert. Plus, be the first to experience not just one but two world premieres! First, our 2024 commissioned composer Daniel Knaggs will dazzle you with Harmony of the World, which incorporates the words of renowned astronomer Johannes Kepler. Then, as a new partner with Chicago a cappella’s HerVoice competition and mentorship program for up-and-coming women composers, the Desert Chorale is honored to present Thoughts by winner Andelena Jackson. Prepare to be filled with awe and wonder on a musical journey for the ears and the soul.
Jul 27 Saturday
Songs of the AmericasEmbark on a musical expedition as sixteen professional Desert Chorale artists accompanied by chamber orchestra and percussion explore the rich heritage of 17th and 18th century music from North and South America. Experience the toe-tapping melodies and soul-stirring harmonies of works by Latin American Baroque composers. Then, return to the present with selections from the modern Mass of the Americas by Frank La Rocca, in which he melds together “tones of Western church music with those of traditional Mexican folk songs.” Debuted in 2018, this “cornerstone of modern liturgical composition” (Mark Nowakowski) incorporates texts in Spanish, Latin, and Nahuatl (the indigenous language of the Aztecs).
Jul 28 Sunday
Out of This WorldImmerse yourself in the lush harmonies, sweeping melodies, and tender poetry of the German Romantics. Impressive works of Johannes Brahms bookend a sublime set of vocal chamber music by Franz Schubert and Robert Schumann featuring several Desert Chorale artists as soloists, all with lyrics and music that delve into the depths of human emotion. The twenty-four professional Desert Chorale singers accompanied by piano bring to life a spectacular sampling from these giants of the Western classical tradition. Come and experience these vocal masterworks of the 19th century like you’ve never heard them before.
Jul 31 Wednesday
This solo voice concert is sure to be the happiest hour of your week! The professional singers of the Santa Fe Desert Chorale not only blend seamlessly in an ensemble—they also shine on the solo stage! Three of your favorite singers come together for an art song recital in the intimate, surround-sound setting of St. Bede’s Episcopal Church. Sneak out of the office early and treat yourself to an afternoon filled with profound poetry and soaring melodies.
Aug 01 Thursday
Aug 02 Friday
Aug 03 Saturday