Community Calendar

A Sanctuary of Sound

July 23 - 31, 2026

Last performed in 2016, the Santa Fe Desert Chorale is thrilled to continue the tradition of presenting Sergei Rachmaninoff’s profoundly beautiful and deeply spiritual All-Night Vigil (popularly known as Vespers). This cornerstone of choral music consists of fifteen movements of unaccompanied voices creating a cathedral of sound, resonating with both the ancient and the innovative. Composed in less than two weeks in 1915 against the backdrop of war, Rachmaninoff’s masterpiece marries traditional Orthodox chants with his distinctive harmonic language, creating a work of great emotional depth. From the grand opening of “Come, Let Us Worship” to the famous low B-flat descent in “Now Lettest Thou,” the Vespers showcases the full expressive range of the human voice. The Desert Chorale will expand to 32 top-tier professional vocalists to tackle this Herculean work. Whether you’re hearing the Vespers for the first time or revisiting a beloved favorite, this program promises to be an unforgettable journey through what many consider to be the pinnacle of Russian choral music.

Discover Europe's Musical Masterpieces

July 12 - August 1, 2026

Journey into the heart of Spain and Italy, where a resplendent world of Renaissance and Early Baroque sounds awaits. Twenty Desert Chorale artists—joined by the early music ensemble Incantare, theorbo, and organ—will transport you to the hallowed halls of grand cathedrals, the mountains and seasides of the Mediterranean, and beyond. Experience the breathtaking polyphony of these sacred and secular works, creating a captivating tapestry of interwoven melodies that will fill you with the same wonder felt by those who first heard these masterworks centuries ago.

A Sanctuary of Sound

July 23 - 31, 2026

Last performed in 2016, the Santa Fe Desert Chorale is thrilled to continue the tradition of presenting Sergei Rachmaninoff’s profoundly beautiful and deeply spiritual All-Night Vigil (popularly known as Vespers). This cornerstone of choral music consists of fifteen movements of unaccompanied voices creating a cathedral of sound, resonating with both the ancient and the innovative. Composed in less than two weeks in 1915 against the backdrop of war, Rachmaninoff’s masterpiece marries traditional Orthodox chants with his distinctive harmonic language, creating a work of great emotional depth. From the grand opening of “Come, Let Us Worship” to the famous low B-flat descent in “Now Lettest Thou,” the Vespers showcases the full expressive range of the human voice. The Desert Chorale will expand to 32 top-tier professional vocalists to tackle this Herculean work. Whether you’re hearing the Vespers for the first time or revisiting a beloved favorite, this program promises to be an unforgettable journey through what many consider to be the pinnacle of Russian choral music.

A Sanctuary of Sound

July 23 - 31, 2026

Last performed in 2016, the Santa Fe Desert Chorale is thrilled to continue the tradition of presenting Sergei Rachmaninoff’s profoundly beautiful and deeply spiritual All-Night Vigil (popularly known as Vespers). This cornerstone of choral music consists of fifteen movements of unaccompanied voices creating a cathedral of sound, resonating with both the ancient and the innovative. Composed in less than two weeks in 1915 against the backdrop of war, Rachmaninoff’s masterpiece marries traditional Orthodox chants with his distinctive harmonic language, creating a work of great emotional depth. From the grand opening of “Come, Let Us Worship” to the famous low B-flat descent in “Now Lettest Thou,” the Vespers showcases the full expressive range of the human voice. The Desert Chorale will expand to 32 top-tier professional vocalists to tackle this Herculean work. Whether you’re hearing the Vespers for the first time or revisiting a beloved favorite, this program promises to be an unforgettable journey through what many consider to be the pinnacle of Russian choral music.

Discover Europe's Musical Masterpieces

July 12 - August 1, 2026

Journey into the heart of Spain and Italy, where a resplendent world of Renaissance and Early Baroque sounds awaits. Twenty Desert Chorale artists—joined by the early music ensemble Incantare, theorbo, and organ—will transport you to the hallowed halls of grand cathedrals, the mountains and seasides of the Mediterranean, and beyond. Experience the breathtaking polyphony of these sacred and secular works, creating a captivating tapestry of interwoven melodies that will fill you with the same wonder felt by those who first heard these masterworks centuries ago.

Familiar Sights and New Horizons

July 19 - August 2, 2026

Marking our nation’s 250th anniversary, this program celebrates the rich yet comforting sounds of American roots choral music. Twenty-four professional vocalists from across the country will unite to perform fresh compositions by Shawn Kirchner, Moira Smiley, and Shavon Lloyd. These celebrated composers, known for their masterful blending of classical choral traditions with American folk influences, will explore themes of community and belonging. Piano, violin, and cello join the Desert Chorale for Alex Berko’s Sacred Place. This moving piece interweaves the structure of a Jewish service with environmental texts, reflecting on the beautiful world we call home. Rounding out this program is the premiere of Cranes Coming Home by emerging composer Taja Astar, winner of Chicago a cappella’s HerVoice competition. Find your own sense of home within this inspiring evening.

Build Your Confidence and Cultivate Your Love of Singing

Program Sponsors: Stephen and Jane Hochberg
Conductor: Joshua Habermann, Artistic Director

First produced by the Desert Chorale in 2016, this special workshop draws participants ranging in age from eighth graders to octogenarians, singing together under the direction of Joshua Habermann. This event is always open to singers of all backgrounds who will come together to sing selections spanning eras and genres of choral music.

The goal of the day is to cultivate and encourage a joy for singing, and also nurture singers’ confidence and choral leadership skills to benefit ensembles in our community.

Registration and coffee hour, featuring information on area vocal ensembles, begins at 8:45 AM. The workshop begins at 9:30 AM and culminates in a showcase performance at 2:00 PM. This informal performance is free to attendees. Be sure to invite your friends and family!

Light snacks and beverages will be provided by the Chorale. There will be a break for a bring-your-own brown bag lunch. Please bring your own additional snacks if you have specific dietary needs.

In addition to individual singers, area choruses are invited to set-up informative tables to increase membership and awareness for attendees. If your ensemble would like to table at this event, please email us at info@desertchorale.org.

Celebrate the Hope and Magic of the Holiday Season

December 12 - 22, 2026

Mark your calendars in 2026 to celebrate the warmth, light, and beauty of the holiday season during the Desert Chorale’s 2026 Winter Festival. Our twenty-four professional artists and guest collaborative pianist return to the Land of Enchantment from across the nation for concerts, caroling, and more. Celebrate this festive time of year with beloved carols you know and love alongside new musical treasures to add to your collection of favorite seasonal tunes.

Celebrate the Hope and Magic of the Holiday Season

December 12 - 22, 2026

Mark your calendars in 2026 to celebrate the warmth, light, and beauty of the holiday season during the Desert Chorale’s 2026 Winter Festival. Our twenty-four professional artists and guest collaborative pianist return to the Land of Enchantment from across the nation for concerts, caroling, and more. Celebrate this festive time of year with beloved carols you know and love alongside new musical treasures to add to your collection of favorite seasonal tunes.

Celebrate the Hope and Magic of the Holiday Season

December 12-22, 2026

Mark your calendars in 2026 to celebrate the warmth, light, and beauty of the holiday season during the Desert Chorale’s 2026 Winter Festival. Our twenty-four professional artists and guest collaborative pianist return to the Land of Enchantment from across the nation for concerts, caroling, and more. Celebrate this festive time of year with beloved carols you know and love alongside new musical treasures to add to your collection of favorite seasonal tunes.