Pasadena Chorale presents Ralph Vaughn Williams’ “A Sea Symphony”
The Pasadena Chorale will present a performance of A Sea Symphony on Wednesday, May 13 at 7:30 pm at the First United Methodist Church.
By Melanie Hooks
The concert will feature all 80 singers of the Chorale, joined by pianist Tali Tadmor, in Ralph Vaughan Williams’ expansive choral work. The piece sets texts by Walt Whitman, whose poetry explores themes of humanity, unity, and discovery.
Artistic Director Jeffrey Bernstein described the work as a powerful showcase for choir. “A Sea Symphony is a tour de force for choir,” Bernstein said. “From the first explosive entrance of the choir, Vaughan Williams captures the energy of the sea in all its moods. The astonishing poetry by Walt Whitman inspires with its inclusive and futuristic view of humanity.”
Composed during an era shaped by imperial expansion, A Sea Symphony contrasts those prevailing ideas with Whitman’s vision of inclusion and shared human experience. The result is a work that blends musical grandeur with a forward-looking message that continues to resonate with modern audiences.
Following the performance, the Chorale will host a post-concert reception at the AC Hotel Pasadena, located one block from the venue. Attendees are invited to gather in the AC Lounge to meet Bernstein, the evening’s performers, and fellow audience members.
Admission to the concert is free and open to the public, with donations encouraged to support the nonprofit ensemble. Guests who contribute $50 or more when reserving tickets will be invited to attend the reception. Tickets can be reserved at pasadenachorale.org.
Pasadena Chorale: A Sea Symphony Wednesday, May 13, 2026 7:30 pm Location First United Methodist Church 500 E. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91101 Reserve free ticket here; donations welcome. Post-performance Reception held at AC Hotel 19 S. Madison Ave. Pasadena, CA 91101 $50 donation
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