Ghost Ranch (Abiquiu campus) in northern New Mexico is an enchanting place. Early in the 20th century, it captured the eye of Georgia O’Keefe, who chose to make her home within its present boundaries. The ranch continues to entice visual artists, in addition to musicians, poets, philosophers and theologians.
For over twenty-five years, during the first full week following the Fourth of July, Ghost Ranch has resonated with the sounds of magnificent choral music, as singers from around the country converge to explore and perform a varied repertoire ranging from world premieres to traditional extended works. Once known as "Vocal Camp," the group has been re-Christened the Ghost Ranch Chorale.
It has been my privilege since 2003 to lead the Ghost Ranch Chorale. During that period the repertoire has consisted of fresh settings of sacred and liturgical texts, world music, songs from the Jewish tradition, rarely-heard extended works by Francisco Durante and Ignacio de Jerusalem, in addition to the occasional chestnut.
This 2010 Chorale will take place July 5-11 and is subtitled Peace of the Running Wave. The human longing for peace transcends time, culture, and religion. The expression of that longing in musical terms will guide our time together. The repertoire will include music from varied religious traditions—Christian, Jewish, Buddhist, Native American-- as well as secular titles. There will be both accompanied and a cappella pieces, with occasional solo opportunities for interested singers. We will share the fruits of our labors with the ranch community at a concert on Saturday night. Those staying over Sunday morning are also invited to sing in the ranch-wide worship. Singers of all levels—from beginners to veterans—are welcome in the Chorale. There is no audition or screening. Instruction in healthful, artistic singing will be on our daily agenda.
HELPFUL HINT: Save $100 simply by registering before May 15! For more information about Ghost Ranch, please visit the Ghost Ranch (Abiquiu campus) website.