The acclaimed Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles (GMCLA) pulls out the stops to present three performances of “Mighty Pipes†– Saturday, March 24, 8 pm, and Sunday, March 25, 2012, 3pm and 7pm, at the First Congregational Church of Los Angeles, 540 South Commonwealth Avenue in Los Angeles – featuring special guest Tony Award-winning actor/singer Levi Kreis, noted organist John West and the venue’s famed organ, which is the world’s largest church pipe organ and is spotlighted by a newly installed $250,000 theatrical lighting system.
GMCLA Artistic Director E. Jason Armstrong conducts an eclectic program of organ and choral music that melds classical works and glam rock to showcase the chorus’ considerable vocal versatility.
Among the compelling classical offerings are Tormis’ Laulja (The Singer), an ode for men’s chorus, organ and percussion; John Tavener’s Song For Athene, composed in 1993 and performed at the funeral of Princess Diana; and Duruflé’s lush Sanctus (from Requiem). Juxtaposing them are such rock anthems as Eli’s Comin’ by Laura Nyro, arranged by Bill Bowersock; Eleanor Rigby by Paul McCartney and John Lennon, arranged by Marshall Webb; Bohemian Rhapsody by Freddie Mercury, arranged by Steven Landau; and (Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher by Gary Jackson, Carl Smith and Raynard Miner, arranged by Bill Bowersock. Levi Kreis is featured on the gospel song His Eye Is On The Sparrow. John West is highlighted on Widor’s lively tour de force Toccata (from Symphony for Organ No. 5).
For tickets ($15 to $75): www.gmcla.org
