Pacific Chorale, conducted by Artistic Director Robert Istad, displays its considerable vocal dexterity when special guests Bach Collegium San Diego (BCSD), one of the country’s premier early music ensembles, and its founder, organist Ruben Valenzuela, join the choir for a highly anticipated, historically-informed performance of Monteverdi’s “Vespers of 1610,” a pillar of the Baroque music canon whose splendor and virtuosity has captivated audiences for centuries. This marks Pacific Chorale’s first complete performance of the stunning masterpiece, which takes place on Saturday, March 4, 2023, 8 pm, at Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church, Newport Beach.
“Monteverdi’s ‘Vespers of 1610’ is an extraordinary work that continues to enthrall audiences with its layers of breathtakingly beautiful sonic textures, lush choruses, virtuosic solos and poignant duets,” says Istad. “The acoustics and intimacy of Our Lady Queen of Angels make it an ideal setting for this live performance, which pairs Pacific Chorale with the period instruments and instrumentation of the remarkable Bach Collegium San Diego as well as Ruben Valenzuela’s masterful artistry on the organ. This will be a rare opportunity to hear the complete work, since it is seldom performed in its entirety.”
Bach Collegium San Diego, noted for its “gripping, empathetic” and virtuosic performances (San Diego Union Tribune) engages audiences with accessible, historically informed performances of iconic and lesser known repertoire from the Renaissance, Baroque, and early Classical eras. Founded in 2003 by Valenzuela to diversify the musical offerings of the Southern California community, BCSD has garnered national and international acclaim.
Valenzuela, a “dramatic and vibrant” artist hailed for his ability “to unlock the true power of Baroque music” (San Diego Story) is a conductor, keyboardist, and musicologist. In addition to his work with BCSD, he regularly appears as a guest director and keyboardist with such notable organizations and venues as Holy Trinity, New York City; Marsh Chapel Choir and Collegium at Boston University; Bach at Emmanuel Church, Boston; Juilliard415 at Lincoln Center, New York City; and the Washington Bach Consort. Upcoming appearances include Westminster Choir College with the Orchestra of St. Luke's; Seraphic Fire; Handel+Haydn Society; and BachFest, Leipzig. Valenzuela also serves as the Director of Music & Organist of All Souls’ Episcopal Church, San Diego.