Pasadena Chorale returns with new series of free concerts

The Pasadena Chorale’s expansive 2024-25 concert season features performances that highlight the richness of American choral music and showcase the talents of the 90-member ensemble.

The season introduces the new “Sunday Series,” a set of intimate concerts at Altadena Community Church featuring a select group of 24 singers from the chorale. The full chorale will be showcased in the “Wednesday Series” that’s four major concerts celebrating the diversity and vibrancy of American choral traditions. 

“The Pasadena Chorale is growing, and that means more concert offerings and options,” Jeffrey Bernstein, founding artistic and executive director, said in a statement. “If you haven’t heard the Pasadena Chorale, there’s a lot to discover this year. We’re proud to offer so many choral experiences at no cost to the community.”

Series organizers provided this detailed schedule of concerts:

Sunday schedule

“Sonic Bloom,” Sept. 8, 4 p.m. — “A showcase of vocal harmonies featuring works by Ysaye Barnwell, Samuel Barber, Elaine Hagenberg, and the premiere of Jeffrey Bernstein’s Sinfonietta.’”

“Twilight of the Year,” Dec. 14 and 15, Sat. 7:30 p.m. and Sun. 4 p.m. — “Luscious choral music of the season.”

“Rebirth,” March 9, 4 p.m. — “An afternoon of sublime Renaissance choral music.”

Wednesday schedule: “Celebrating American Composers“

“The season will showcase the diversity and evolution of the American choral tradition, bringing to the forefront the voices of celebrated composers like Aaron Copland and Leonard Bernstein, alongside the innovative contributions of lesser-known talents.”

“The Light of Hope Returning,” Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m., First United Methodist Church Pasadena — Shawn Kirchner’s American oratorio features the composer at the piano along with The High Notes, Pasadena Chorale’s middle school choir.

“Sing America, Part One: I, Too,” Feb. 12, 7:30 p.m., First United Methodist Church Pasadena — “Exploring the American choral traditions with works by Jen Wang, Florence Price and Margaret Bonds.”

Listening to the Future, May 10, 7 p.m., Neighborhood Unitarian Universalist Church — “Showcasing new works composed by Pasadena area high school students, mentored by composer and Pasadena Chorale singing member Jen Wang.”

“Sing America, Part Two: E Pluribus Unum,” June 11, 7:30 p.m., First United Methodist Church Pasadena — “A grand finale featuring works by Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein, Randall Thompson, and diverse voices from today’s generation of American composers.”

More information is on the chorale’s website pasadenachorale.org.