Reviews of Cornerstone Chorale & Brass – Bruce Vantine's Cornerstone Chorale & Brass

I’ve never encountered anything quite like The Courage to Care, – the program presented by Bruce Vantine’s Cornerstone Chorale & Brass.

This program assumes a unique form in which Mr. Vantine attempts to carry out his stated mission [to encourage individuals] to use time, talents and resources to minister to our brothers and sisters in need.

The diction of the narrators and singers was exemplary. Their fine diction was not the only way in which the Chorale excelled. Throughout the program they sang with beautiful sound, excellent intonation, and sincerity of intention. The several solos performed by chorus members were well executed.

Standing front and center, attractively clad in red, black and white, and singing everything by memory, they [the choir members] were the stars of the show. Equally skilled was the brass quintet.

During one of the more poignant moments…we were treated to a performance of one of music’s most beautiful pieces: the Adagio from Beethoven’s Sonata No. 8 -- the “Pathetique” [performed by Kay Hoffland, pianist]. Here Mr. Vantine’s message seemed to be that during times of greatest emotion, when words fail, music speaks…

The audience loved [the program], as they demonstrated with a standing ovation at the end.”

The Cornerstone Chorale and Brass visited Santa Fe November 1st on their grueling 23-stop Southwest tour. Those who hold the Desert Chorale in high esteem would have treasured this truly gifted ensemble. It was one of the best mixed choirs I’ve heard, and a major event.

There were 24 enthusiastic singers with astonishing clarity and technique and exciting dynamics. All the solo voices showed unique beautiful tone quality and superb musicality and musicianship. The brass ensemble was very solid, tastefully and technically proficient, with a very satisfying, first-rate sound. The inspiring conductor and Cornerstone founder Bruce Vantine must be credited.

This ensemble is drawn nationally from the creme de la creme. All participants have many impressive credits. What a pleasure to hear such a wonderful sound produced with such freedom and yet with such control.

The repertoire was all of a spiritual, uplifting nature woven artfully together with three very fine, rich-voiced narrators excellent in their field.

All the works presented were very warm and appealing. Those who attended really got their money’s worth. Those who did not missed some interesting,
very rich, in-depth and energetic music making. I was amazed that the Chorale sang the generous program from memory.

I was told that the group would be back in the not too distant future. Don’t miss them!

Last Sunday afternoon at Christ Presbyterian Church, The Cornerstone Chorale & Brass under the direction of Bruce Vantine from St. Louis, offered a program of readings and music called Beside the Still Waters.

Vantine recruits the professional singers and instrumentalists by audition from around the country and writes and produces the 90-minute program that talks
about Judeo-Christian principles of living through the medium of words and music. The Metro-Toledo Churches United sponsored the visit. The idea is
intriguing, a sort of traveling Festival of Lessons and Carols without the Christmas focus and incorporating readings from poets, authors, philosophers,
modern politicians, and of course, scripture.

The musical selections were varied and arresting, and the 24-voice choir was immaculately chosen for clarity of individual voices and a good blend. They
sang in tune and with conviction. The use of brass, percussion and flute for dramatic accent was great.

The work of mission and gospel caring for the poor and the homeless is necessarily high on the agenda of all churches today. However, this work sometimes lacks both vision and passion. The work of Bruce Vantine and The Cornerstone Chorale & Brass seems to me to be unique in its ability to communicate this important aspect of the gospel along with precisely the passion and vigor it needs. It is an important piece of communication work, and as such can benefit enormously the work of the churches in this difficult and important sphere. I write to commend The Cornerstone Chorale & Brass as a vital and authentic ministry.

Review by: The Rt. Rev. Michael Marshall of The Anglican Institute

As I listened to the Cornerstone concert, all kinds of words and emotions swept through me. Words like originality, professionalism, powerful messages, multigenerational performers, inspirational, stimulating to the senses, and heart are but a few. May you continue to provide our lives with the gift of having this highlight as part of our musical experience.”
Your Cornerstone concert thrilled my soul! Thank you for allowing God to use you to refresh His people. I jotted down some notes to express my gratitude.
The Cornerstone Chorale & Brass concert
Like comfort food that satisfies,
The beloved old tunes
Served so deliciously
Sing to deep places in me.
A cooling breeze that refreshes,
The old and new words
Crafted so beautifully
Inspire my mind and soul.
Embracing arms that reassure,
The ancient scripture
Presented so faithfully
Speaks love and hope to my heart.
Battle cries that motivate,
The divine directives
Delivered so forcefully
Challenge my slothful self.
Like a bursting bud that blooms,
My eager spirit
Nourished so completely
Responds in praise to God.

Venue: Our Savior’s Lutheran Church
-- Lafayette, CA

Please accept appreciation from all who attended your concert at Trinity Church in Reno last night. I have heard nothing but accolades from those who were present. The brass, chorale, and narrators presented a stirring and moving program, which was especially nourishing following the events of September 11. We in Reno were blessed by your artistry.

Venue: Trinity Episcopal Church
-- Reno, NV
Review by: V. James Jeffery of Trinity Episcopal Church

Once again, the performance of the Cornerstone Chorale & Brass was exceptional. I have heard so many comment that ‘I needed to hear that message.’ And a powerful message it is!
To be reminded of God’s ‘love so amazing, so divine’ at this point in our history made the music and words of your performance take on new meaning for many who listened and were moved by your presentation. I am grateful that [we] were able to hear your message. I think it has, and will make a difference in this church and in this community as we seek ways to be faithful to God’s calling. We were also able, with your help, to raise much needed funding to support our local chapter of Habitat for Humanity. I appreciate so much what you are doing.

Venue: Harral Auditorium, Wayland Baptist University
-- Plainview, TX
Review by: The Rev. Drew Travis of Habitat for Humanity; Plainview, TX Area

It was grand! When that young man started singing Where have all the children gone?, I lost it and couldn’t stop crying.

Venue: Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
-- New York, NY

I hope Cornerstone will be back another year to perform then at The Riverside Church.

Venue: The Riverside Church
-- New York, NY
Review by: The Rev. Dr. James A. Forbes of The Riverside Church

The power of the choir and brass not only stems from their superior performance, but from their incredible emotional intensity as well. Their message of compassion sprang from their hearts. They are truly an outstanding ensemble.

Venue: Habitat for Humanity Center
-- Americus, GA
Review by: Millard Fuller of Habitat for Humanity

Thanks again for the performance last evening. The event was a terrific success, and the message and music were superb.

Venue: Genesis Jobs
-- Baltimore, MD

To say that a Cornerstone Chorale & Brass performance is a glorious blessing for all who attend cannot begin to communicate the power, majesty and wonder of these events that have enthralled and energized audiences across America since 1988.

Dr. Vantine’s brilliant compositions, direction, and program concept glorifies God as nothing else has done for me. His devoted and enormously talented musicians provide an experience of drama and worship of the highest order.

Old and new music and words are integrated into a stirring and yet tender invitation into new possibilities and futures charged with deep meaning. Their overall proclamation empowers us to get on with God’s work of realizing redemption for each person as well as our society. I wish that all America could have Cornerstone program experiences.

We as a nation are in desperate need of such transcending encounters that can renew hope and resolve for making our communal life more gracious, caring, blessed and blessing. I strongly believe that Cornerstone is an integral part of God’s plan for healing our land.

A unique form...beautiful sound, excellent intonation and sincerity... the audience loved it.

Venue: Zankel Hall at Carnegie Hall
-- New York, NY

A top-notch ensemble.. A message of great importance!

Venue: Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
-- New York, NY

I am only one, but still, I am one.
I cannot do everything, but still I can do something.
And because I cannot do everything, I must not refuse to do the something I can do.
-- Edward Everett Hale