San Juan Capistrano is the place to be!
(At least the little birdies think so…)
The swallows are about to return, but this weekend de Angelis Vocal Ensemble (we like to call them “dAVE”) is all about Brahms, as they present the one of the great composer’s most cherished works — the German Requiem, performed with four-hand piano accompaniment.This plucky choral group has been a consistent source of exceptionally fine ensemble singing, and we’ve featured them a few times in this space. But as much as the weekend’s concert sounds especially tasty, it is the variety of special events that capture attention beyond their general excellence — de Angelis is proving excellent at building an audience and bright future, too.
With a solid fan base that is growing steadily, the group has devised another way of connecting with their concertgoers: the Adopt a Singer program, which has already shown great success, with more than half the ensemble members spoken for. For $25-$1500, you can do anything from buy sheet music to pay for a season, making your involvement a very direct part of the singer’s and the ensemble’s success. According to director Matthew Gray, it has helped the audience connect with the experience in a different way, too: “It really breaks down the barrier between the ensemble and the audience.” Take a look and pick a singer – you have room in your musical family, right? Download the PDF flyer
They’re also finding new ways (and new places) to entertain their new families and friends, with special events like the annual Wine Tasting for a Song, taking place this year at the highly regarded Salt Creek Grille in Dana Point. For only $35 (with discounts for subscribers, the smarties), attendees get wine, hors d’oeuvres, fun and great music. It all happens April 27, starting at 4:30pm, and you can get your tickets here.
In the meantime, get yourself to the mission, and be sure to get on their mailing list!