A delight for the ears

Richland’s Fall 2022 Choral Concert was worth the wait. The concert, held on Nov. 16 at Fannin Performance Hall, showcased the Chamber Singers and the Jazz Singers, with director Dr. Andrew Evangelista and accompanying pianist, Dr. JuYeon Julia Lee. The program consisted of eight pieces from varying periods.

The first four songs were performed by the Chamber Singers; Ashley Bird, Samanta Chirinos, Heather Dobrott, Aimee Flatt, Zion Hightower, Zina Len and Clarisse Ramirez.

The students gave very melodious and steady performance with songs such as “Lift Up Your Voice” by Victor C. Johnson, the opening song that was a wonderful hint of what was to come, and “Do You Not Know?” by Thomas Morley, an a cappella cover that combined the voices of soprano, alto and tenor to deliver a piece that was passionate and catchy.

The pieces that stood out were “Let’s Begin Again” by John Rutter and “Omnia Sol” by Z. Randall Stroope. The first song was an invitation for listeners to recognize the coming new year and reflect on the year we will be leaving behind soon, delivered in a soothing tone by the students.

The second song told a somber tale of having to leave your loved ones but expressing the need for the loved one to know that they will be thought about and that as long as they keep their courage and have faith, they will be reunited one day. Truly a feast for the ears.

Following a brief intermission, the Jazz Singers, comprised of Alan Chavarria, Heather Dobrott, Zion Hightower, Kelcie Hopman, Zina Len and Joseph Wilkinson, performed four pieces as well.

They started with a more modern cover of “September” by Mark Brymer, which turned a song I had previously detested into something worth listening to. The remaining pieces were well-sung and were just as good as a professional chorus on Broadway, with even pianist, Lee joining in to showcase her voice as the director took over on the piano.

The lighting was the perfect hue to keep the focus on the singers on stage and the way the students and director dressed and performed was amazing and professional. The evening ended with much applause and people eager for the next concert.

At press time, the Symphonic Instrumental 2 Concert, featuring the Richland Orchestra, Chamber, and Wind Ensembles are scheduled for Nov. 22 in Fannin Performance Hall.