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!