The Zia Singers rehearse for ‘I Have A Dream’ concert Jan. 18-19 in Santa Fe. Courtesy/Zia Singers

By KIRSTEN LASKEY
Los Alamos Daily Post
kirsten@ladailypost.com

To commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, The Zia Singers women’s chorale is presenting a concert titled “I Have A Dream” – 7 p.m. Jan. 18 and 3 p.m. Jan. 19 at the Cristo Rey Catholic Church, 1107 Cristo Rey St. in Santa Fe.

Artistic Director John Tiranno explained that many of the program’s songs center on the life and work of King. In fact, some pieces contain excerpts from his sermons. Also, Tiranno said the ensemble will perform “Missa Popularis” by Swedish composer Mårten Jansson. Tiranno said the song’s title translates to “mass for the people” so it fits the concert’s theme.

“(‘Missa Popularis’) that we are doing – I am certain it is a New Mexico premiere … it is just a gorgeous piece of music,” he said.

Tiranno added that it is a plus to sing songs that honor King’s birthday, which is Jan. 20.

“We are proud and happy to sing songs that honor Dr. King, one of our country’s most important figures,” he said.

Another asset is the performers who bring a lot to the concert, Tiranno said.

“There is just a wonderful energy coming from the group,” he said.

The Zia Singers have been performing for 31 years; Tiranno said its mission is “to promote joy in women’s singing through outreach, educating and singing.” The chorale has 50 members.

Tiranno is a newcomer to the group; the upcoming concert will be his first with The Zia Singers. Tiranno does bring a lot of experience, however. He is a professional opera singer, conductor and teaches in Santa Fe.

Stepping into his new role, Tiranno said, “It’s been a lot of fun getting to know these women. It was a bit of learning curve for all of us …”

Still, he said The Zia Singers “have a real joy for making music and for singing as a community choir.”

The chorale is made up of volunteers, but they still take it seriously, Tiranno said.

“It has been a lot of fun getting to know them and working with them. I’ve been learning from them…,” he said.

The Zia Singers are recruiting new members. Tiranno said auditions will be held 2:30-4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24, and 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at St. Bede’s Episcopal Church, 550 W. Mateo Road in Santa Fe. For more information, visit https://theziasingers.com/.

People can also visit the website to purchase tickets, which cost $35 for preferred seating, $25 for general seating and $10 for children. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.

The Zia Singers Artistic Director John Tiranno leads the choral ensemble during an rehearsal. Courtesy/Zia Singers