STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK
The Caritas Chorale will welcome spring with a jaunty concert filled with brass and percussion this coming Saturday and Sunday at Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church in Ketchum.
The free “Joy” concert will start at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 3, and 3 p.m. Sunday, March 4, at Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church on Sun Valley Road in Ketchum.
It will feature John Rutter’s “Gloria” as its centerpiece, accompanied by brass, percussion and organ. The work, which premiered in 1974, is often sang at Christmas.
“It just lifts you up,” said Chorale member Sharon Bockemohle.”It’s a wonderful piece of music and so majestic with the brass that accompanies it. And then, of course we will have other wonderful numbers, as well.”
Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “O Clap Your Hands,” is “a fast moving, happy piece,” said Bockemohle.” And Z. Randall Strope’s ‘Omnia Sol’ is a very sweet song about losing someone.”
The concert will also feature an arrangement of “This Little Light of Mine” by Mark Hayes and pieces by Joseph M. Martin and Mary McDonald.
There will be some unusual orchestration carrying through with variations.
Joining the Caritas Chorale will be a couple groups from Wood River High School, including the B-Tones men’s group.
“There’s something about brass and percussion and the power of the organ,” said Chorale Director R.L. Rowsey. “Combined, they give us a mighty platform to stand on as we sing these thrilling pieces. It might be hard to keep your feet on the floor.”
The Chorale is always looking for new members. To learn more, visit www.caritaschorale.org.