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OCC Chamber Singers to Perform Mozart’s Requiem and Beethoven’s Concerto

The OCC Chamber Singers delivering a powerful performance of Mozart's Requiem.

News Summary

The Orange Coast College Chamber Singers will perform Mozart’s Requiem and Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major at the Robert B. Moore Theatre on May 10. Conducted by Eliza Rubenstein, the concert will feature pianist Teresa de Jong-Pombo and serve as a precursor to the group’s upcoming Carnegie Hall debut. With tickets priced at $10 for students and $15 for the public, the performance aims to highlight classical music’s accessibility and the inclusive nature of the OCC music program.

Costa Mesa, California – The Orange Coast College (OCC) Chamber Singers are preparing for an exciting concert featuring Mozart’s Requiem and Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major. This performance will take place on May 10 at the Robert B. Moore Theatre on OCC’s campus and serves as a precursor to their long-awaited Carnegie Hall debut on June 24.

Under the direction of conductor Eliza Rubenstein, the Chamber Singers will present Requiem accompanied by a full orchestra. The concert will also showcase pianist Teresa de Jong-Pombo, an OCC music instructor, performing Beethoven’s renowned concerto. Tickets for the May concert are priced at $10 for students and $15 for the general public, with free parking available in Lot C.

The OCC Chamber Singers have a history of performing at Carnegie Hall, with their trips occurring about every two years. Vincente Dang, a bassist in the group, noted that this will be his third performance at the prestigious venue. He describes the experience as “world-changing,” highlighting how different venues enhance his performance experience.

Rubenstein’s dedication to making classical music accessible to her students is a driving force behind the upcoming concert. Her personal journey began in the mid-1990s when she moved to Orange County and attended a recital by famed violinist Itzhak Perlman. Rubenstein encountered a wealthier couple who criticized her seating choice, a moment that inspired her career focus on accessibility in music education.

Among the singers is Taylor Cox, a blind pianist who utilizes braille music to perform. She emphasizes that participating in the group offers her equal footing despite her challenges, showcasing the inclusivity of the OCC program. While not every member of the Chamber Singers will travel to New York, Rubenstein is actively raising funds to support as many participants as possible in their journey to Carnegie Hall.

Alto Mio Romero remarked on the cultural significance of Mozart’s Requiem, noting its frequent appearance in various media, which speaks to its lasting popularity. This concert offers students not only the chance to perform significant classical works but also a valuable bonding experience as they collaborate musically.

Rubenstein emphasizes that the upcoming concert is an excellent value for the quality of music being performed. The OCC choral department, which spans various music styles, places a strong emphasis on the power of classical compositions by renowned composers like Mozart and Beethoven. This allows students to experience music’s richness while cultivating their performing skills.

As the performance date approaches, the anticipation builds among students, faculty, and the community. The concert on May 10 promises to be a highlight of the academic year for OCC, serving as not only an artistic endeavor but also an enriching educational opportunity for all participants involved.