The Choral Society performed Bach’s “B Minor Mass” and the very first chord sung by a five-part chorus sent chills down my neck. A marvelous beginning to the Kyrie ‘Lord have mercy upon us” was a lovely and challenging duet sung by sopranos Sharon Abreu and Naomi Aldort. The rest of the mass was sung by a remarkable group of soloists and choral  musicians.

Conductor Roger Sherman showed us something I have long suspected – that he has an unabashed, admiration for the Bach period and the Baroque as well. His conducting was precise and controlled.  Each entrance and each exit by the singers was masterful. You would have dropped your jaw after the last cut-off of the Missa.

Of course, Sherman drew from solid cadre of singers.  I now control my choice of words, and I will tell you that there stood Abreu, of which has been much has been acknowledged in previous reports.  She sails up to her high “C” with a clear attitude of where she’s going. Aldort is a second soprano of much performing experience.  Her respect for her art was clearly visible in the feeling she exhibited in her duet with Abreu.

Now the march of talent began: Eric Jeffords, a young and gifted tenor joined Abreu in the plaintive and moving prayer “Domine Deus, Rex coelistis” (O Lord God, Heavenly King)

Jose Luis Munoz sang “Qui sedes ad dexteram ad Patris . . . .” in a heavenly and intelligent way that was a fine performance. Charles Robert Stevens, a baritone of exceptional range and knowledge of his instrument, completed the performing soloists roster adding to the formal and deeply moving evening.

I must add a further praise to the Orcas Boys’ Choir, The Turtleback Brass and The Orcas Festival Orchestra. There were moments when the brass  were just a bit enthusiastic in the restraint and support of the chorus and the soloists but Maestro Sherman quickly assumed the helm drawing back to reverence. They drew much applause as the curtain calls began.  The Orcas Boys’ Choir will, I hope, be a continually rewarding addition to future performances.

I can’t promise what the Christmas concert will bring but I know that we are tremendously lucky to have these musicians in our community.

Eleanor Peterson

Orcas Island