Upper School Chorus Joins Pacific Encore Performances for an Evening of Musical Favorites

They may be small in number, but the 15 members of the Upper School chorus plan to raise their voices together in perfect harmony when they join the cast of the professional opera company, Pacific Encore Performances, on stage at 7:00 p.m. Saturday, February 21, in RSPA Panther Hall. Performing Arts Director Tess Nielsen says the chorus has been rehearsing everyday for several weeks, carefully memorizing each piece. “The students want to rise to the level of the performance,” Ms. Nielsen says. “It is important for young people to feel confident when they appear on stage, so that they can be unencumbered in their performance. Regular rehearsal builds that confidence.”

Pacific Encore Performances is a unique musical repertory company whose performances have taken the group throughout the United States as well as overseas, giving members the opportunity to perform before both national and international audiences and to build their professional careers. Through its performances, Pacific Encore also raises funds for other non-profit organizations. Mary Weir, president, and Barry Henry, founder of Pacific Encore Performances, say the Ranney School concert is one of the many educational and cultural outreach programs produced by the company each year.

Freshman Hannah Simpson says she is simply thrilled for the chance to work with such talented professionals. “This is such a great opportunity. It is an example of just how much the performing arts program at Ranney has expanded.”

The Ranney School concert should appeal to every type of music lover, especially families. The company’s international cast will take audience members on a musical journey of the world’s most beloved melodies, from Broadway to the Met, performing age-old favorites, such as Shenandoah, alongside selections from operatic classics like La Boheme. The Upper School chorus will join the full cast on the Roberts’ Stage for five musical selections, including Danny Boy, Climb Every Mountain and God Bless America.

Head of School Dr. Lawrence S. Sykoff says the purpose of this special concert is two fold: to provide students a unique opportunity to perform with some of the finest vocalists from around the world, and to give Ranney parents, children and others in the community the opportunity to hear live professional opera, perhaps for the very first time. “It is important, especially during these difficult economic times, to provide affordable, accessible venues like RSPA Panther Hall, for families to come together and enjoy the arts,” Dr. Sykoff said. “Doing so also supports our school’s mission, which is to nurture the artistic vision of every child.

Following the concert, the school will host a special reception for audience members and the cast. Guests will be treated to coffee and dessert and members of the cast will be on hand to answer questions.

For additional information on all Ranney School news, please contact the Communications Department at communications@ranneyschool.org.