Key Chorale “On Their Way” Celebrating 40 Seasons of Great Music

August 30, 2024 | Sarasota

Key Chorale, the Suncoast’s premier symphonic chorus, kicks off its 40th anniversary season on September 21 with “On Our Way,” a feel-good concert sure to set your toes tapping, your hands clapping and your spirit soaring. Featuring The Stephen Lynerd Group, a gospel/jazz quartet made up of some of the most sought-after session musicians in the country, combined with vocal phenom Jamal Sarikoki at the Hammond B-3 organ and soloists Amy Jo Connours and Kristin Lewter.

This upbeat program brings together great performers and celebrates the rich heritage of Gospel Music with songs like, Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel, Total Praise, Freedom’s Plow, I’m Climbing Higher Mountains and more. In addition to well-known favorites, the singers of Key Chorale will be featuring the work of composers and arrangers at the very forefront of this genre: Moses Hogan, Rollo Dilworth, Shawn Kirchner and Joseph Joubert.

The Stephen Lynerd group features bass, drums, piano, Hammond B-3 and Stephen Lynerd on vibraphone. Stephen Lynerd has performed to audiences in 49 of the 50 states and around the world with his unique blend of sacred and classical music. He has also been a featured guest artist on tours to Alaska, Turkey, and Greece, sharing the stage with Steve Green, The Tunneys, Nielson and Young, and Greg Buchanan.

“This music connects with all of us. It touches us. It moves us,” said Maestro Joseph Caulkins. “This music speaks to the struggles and triumphs of the entire human condition. It lifts us all as we strive toward a greater place. While much of the music is Christian based, no matter who, or how you worship, you’ll find this music will resonate and fill your soul.”

A local favorite, baritone Jamal Sarikoki, is back with Key Chorale for three concerts this season. He will be a featured vocalist alongside three world-class opera soloists for Verdi’s dramatic Requiem February 15, and for the season finale “Beethoven’s Joy” May 10.
As an oratorio singer, Jamal has sung the baritone roles in Bach’s Mass in B Minor, Beethoven’s Mass in C Major, Bruckner’s Te Deum, Mendelssohn’s Elijah and many other works.

“Jamal is such a talent,” remarked Maestro Caulkins. “He has a powerful voice that commands your attention, but it is his musicality and commitment to his performing that draws our audiences to him. To have him with us three times for our Anniversary season is a such a rare treat.”

Season subscriptions are still available and single tickets for this concert and others are on sale now! Visit www.keychorale.org<http://www.keychorale.org> or call (941) 552-8768 to reserve the best seats and to take advantage of additional savings. Subscribers also get preferred seats at all concerts.