OUR 44th SEASON

The Santa Fe Women’s Ensemble’s 44th season, with the general theme of Connect!, begins with our four exciting December concerts, entitled Winterscapes. Whether describing a peaceful mellow evening in front of a fire or a raucous night of boisterous caroling, this repertory is a collection of choral music that hits all the notes of this festive season. 

This polarity is demonstrated most aptly in the opening piece, Hodie, by Joan Szymko. Using the traditional Latin text, Szymko begins with a graceful, original monophonic chant that then explodes into a rhythmic exhortation of the text “Gloria.” For those who prefer a serene winter evening, Jacob Naverud’s Season of Light sets the tone for a pleasant night of remembering. For the listener who wants to be energized, Donald Patriquin’s rollicking arrangement of Hey Ho! Nobody Home will get the blood coursing through their veins. Eight other pieces follow that will delight and warm your hearts. 

The 13-voice Women’s Ensemble is joined this winter by saxophonist Dave Anderson, percussionist Diana Sharpe and pianist Bill Epstein for an uplifting experience.

Hear Music Director Linda Raney talk about “Winterscapes” by using these two interview links: KHFM “In the Studio” and KSFR “Forum Plus”.

Our Connect! theme continues into our May concerts, titled Springscapes. In Santa Fe, springtime can be filled with green leaves and blossoms or the occasional snowstorm. Within these joyful, moving, passionate and haunting pieces, we are reminded to be open to new possibilities as we connect with rivers, mountains, birds and other humans with whom we share our planet Earth.

These concerts feature the world premiere of Perhaps I Shall Be by Joan Szymko, this season’s commissioned composer. With a catalog of over 100 published choral works, Szymko’s music is regularly performed across the world and she is widely regarded as a foremost composer of literature for women’s voices. We are so excited to share this music with you!

Venue

First Presbyterian Church

Dates

Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 3 pm
Sunday, May 11, 2025 at 3 pm

Respiratory illness guidelines (including Covid 19 and RSV)

• Vaccinations are expected.
• Masks are optional.
• Please stay home when you are ill.