Local singing ensemble announces new season

Having just welcomed 16 new singers to its ranks, the Long Beach Camerata Singers is preparing for its upcoming 49th season, which includes four performances by the choir, as well as four other events that are part of its annual Long Beach Bach Festival. The choir’s artistic director, Dr. Rob Istad, describes the season as one that “will bring exceptional, diverse musical experiences to the people of our city. You won’t want to miss a moment.”
The season will begin on Sunday, Oct. 12 at 4:30pm with a tribute to the nation’s singing heritage featuring a Bluegrass band and other guests in new arrangements of familiar folk songs, American standards, spirituals, and a patriotic salute to the armed forces. The performance will take place at the Long Beach City College Auditorium.

On Dec. 20, the choir will perform Handel’s “The Messiah” at Long Beach City College, with full orchestra and acclaimed guest soloists.

As part of the annual Long Beach Bach Festival, which it has produced for 41 years, Camerata Singers will offer a performance of Bach’s “Magnificat in D Major” on April 12, 2015. The composition is one of only a few works that Bach scored for a five-part choir. Istad will present the work with Baroque orchestra and five guest soloists.
Other concerts on the roster for the Bach Festival during March and April 2015 include three free events: a performance of Bach motets by the Horizon Choir, the Junior Bach Festival showcasing Long Beach’s young musical prodigies and a newly developed interactive performance for children and families called KinderKonzert.

Camerata Singers will also present an evening of jazz and Bach at the Sky Room on March 29, featuring Denean Dyson and the Soul Foundation ensemble.

The final concert of the season, entitled Camerata Goes Broadway, will be performed on June 13.

“We want everyone to be able to experience quality choral music,” said Camerata’s board president, Jan Hower. “So we’re happy to be able to offer three free concerts this season, thanks to support from the Port of Long Beach.”
Michael Gold, director of Communications and Community Relations for the Port, added, “We’re happy to be part of Camerata Singers’ growth and the vibrant arts scene in our community.”

Subscriptions to Long Beach Camerata’s 2014-15 Season are $180 and include preferred seating at all events. Tickets to individual concerts are also available starting at $30 ($10 at the door with student I.D.) For more information about Long Beach Camerata Singers’ concert schedule, or to purchase tickets, visit longbeachcameratasingers.org or call (562) 373-5654.

Source: Camerata Singers