Photo by Berta A. Daniels/BADCAM Photo
She is a romantic muse. We have a standing date on Sunday nights, spend an occasional Saturday retreat, and gather with friends a few times a year. The tinkling of ivories and a hubbub of voices, then a good shoulder rub and some screeching get this cat swinging.
I’d ask you not to tell my wife, but the truth is, she takes pictures.
The focus of our affections is Coro Allegro, Boston’s chorus for members and friends of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities. Coro Allegro earned its excellent reputation with two decades of superb performances of significant classical choral works by a diverse range of composers. It’s also known for the warm welcome it extends to lovers of music, whether on the stage or in the audience.
Almost twenty years ago, I responded to a newspaper ad seeking choral singers, and birthed my devotion to the group. A few times since, I haven’t been able to sing a concert, or for one reason or another had to consider quitting Coro. But few things have remained as constant in my life, and every Sunday, except during summer recess, I trek into town to get my musical fix.
Quality music is the lure, but the community is the hook. I’m not the only Coro chorister who has been with the group for years. Time together has allowed us to develop and refine; our director, David Hodgkins, can play us like an instrument.
On Sunday, February 28, Coro Allegro will perform its Winter concert with a lush, dramatic set of works by Distler, Brahms, Poulenc and Tavener. The Brahms pieces — Fest und Gedenksprüche, Op. 109 — are so rarely performed this would likely be your first time hearing them live. The headline piece, Hugo Distler’s Totentanz, will feature renowned former BSO flutist Fenwick Smith and WGBH’s own Richard Knisely (as the narrator).
Join me in my adoration of Coro Allegro at its Winter concert. There’s plenty of love to go around.
Hugo Distler, Totentanz, plus works by Brahms, Poulenc & Tavener
Sunday, February 28, 2010, 3pm, Church of the Covenant, Newbury and Berkeley Sts., Boston, MA
http://www.coroallegro.org/tickets/
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