Well Done Choirs

We are all a little nervous because of the choreography, which includes stomps, claps, yelps, marching among other things to think about. Tonight's performance was dedicated in memory of Daniel Lee Hooper, one of The Choral Project's Altos, pianist, arranger and section leader. He was also a good friend to all of the members of the group and especially close to the Director, Daniel Hughes.

The program was executed in a beautiful arch, entitled: we gather, we pray, we play, we transform and we celebrate. The choir took stage and welcomed the audience with the lively Karimatanu Kuicha, by Ko Matsushita. The choralography, by Yvonne Farrow, who worked with The Choral Project during their 2006 "One is the All" breakthrough production was stunning. The choir looked as if they wanted everyone in the audience to come to their awesome village. Then the choir transitioned gracefully into the next piece "Illumina le tenebre" by Joan Szymcko, which was mesmerizing and haunting. Beautifully executed, we could see the light from above blessing each and every one of us. The alway entertaining Willcocks "Musical Risotto" was flawlessly executed and included all of the playful touches of Denise Owen and Kelli Leuder as the dueling divas.

As a tribute to Dan Hooper, The Choral Project next performed one of the most beautiful pieces in their repertoire, which also happens to be one of Mr. Hoopers favorite choral compositions. "Musica animam tangens," written by the young composer Joshua Shank. The love of music surrounding us was palpable. Then the choir ended their set with the celebratory South African Folksong "Babethandaza." We are marching in the light of God.

We then got a real treat from the San Ramon Valley High School Treble Clef Choir. This group of beautiful, talented young ladies really charmed their audience. Directed by Mr. Ken Abrams, the TCC opened their set with "Hoj, Hura Hoj" by the Czech composer Otmar Macha. A lively piece with beautiful melodies. They then performed the Heinrich Schutz "O lieber Herre Gott" with harpsichord (patch) accompaniment. Joan Szymko was again featured on the program with "Nada Te Turbe" and then "Duerme Negrito" the beautiful lullaby written by Atahualpa Yupanqui, Argentine singer & song writer. "She Weeps Over Rahoon" is a song featured on The Choral Project's album Water & Light. It might have been difficult for some of the audience members to stifle the urge to sing along. The selection provided the back drop for a dance routine that was beautifully performed by one of the choir members. Next the Treble Clef Choir sang Two Traditional Camp Songs put together in one selection called "No Time." For the grand finale, we were treated to the uplifting gospel song "Still I Rise" sung enthusiastically and featured four of the choir members.