Located in the scenic corridor between the San Gorgonio and San Jacinto mountains in Southern California, the Pass Chorale has provided high-quality choral music to the communities of Yucaipa, Oak Glen, Cherry Valley, Beaumont, Calimesa, Banning and Cabazon. The chorale takes its name from the well-known San Gorgonio Pass, the region connecting these cities.
Established in the 1950s, the chorale has traditionally featured a classical choral work in each of their formal concerts, adding to it traditional and contemporary choral music, and occasionally performing original pieces by local composers. Concerts sometimes feature a sing-along segment where the audience is invited to participate in singing familiar songs. The aim in offering this musical variety is to foster understanding and appreciation for each style, while offering something for everyone to enjoy.
The Pass Chorale has performed in various venues throughout the San Gorgonio Pass. It has been honored to perform at community events, such as the 100th birthday of the City of Banning and a military tribute at this year's July 4th celebration in that city.
This coming December, the chorale will feature a sing-along of Handel's Messiah, Part One (Christmas section) and the Hallelujah Chorus. The second half of the concert will include a few traditional and contemporary holiday favorites along with a lesser known piece or two that are particularly moving and beautiful.
