Two well-known voices, and their choirs, are about to be united in song.
Vernon’s Kokanee Singers and Inspirati Chorale, which are led by tenor Paul Moore, are joining with Salmon Arm-raised soprano Stephanie Nakagawa and her Vancouver-based Ensemble Étoile for an afternoon concert in Vernon, Sunday, June 19.
“I am looking forward to hearing the two groups join together for solo opera chorus numbers as well as combining forces to sing chorus parts in duets and arias that Stephanie and I are singing,” said Moore.
The Kokanee Singers will sing favourite numbers in jazz and classical styles, including Fly Me to the Moon and Time to Say Goodbye.
Singing a cappella, Inspirati Chorale will present The Parting Glass, a 21st century arrangement of deeply emotional 17th century song and poem, and Sicut Cervus, a beautiful 16th century piece by Palestrina.
Moore will perform as Libiamo in a duet from La Traviata, which will be combined with the chorus.
“It’s a big number,” he said, adding, the soprano aria Vilia from the operetta The Merry Widow and tenor aria Nessun Dorma from the opera Turandot will also be performed with operatic chorus.
“It’s a great chance for all the singers to feel what it’s like to be in a large opera chorus. It’s an exciting feeling,” he said.
Moore has also announced the inaugural Vernon Proms, a new classical music festival to be held in Vernon July 16 to 30.
The festival will include several free events, including workshops and performances, at various venues around Vernon (more information to follow).
Sunday’s performance with Moore, Nakagawa and the choirs takes place at 2 p.m. at Trinity United Church.
Tickets are $18/adults and $15 senior/student, available at the Ticket Seller. Call 250-549-7469 or order online at ticketseller.ca.
