Known as "an orchestra of voices" because of their seamless blend of vocals, the 12-member Chanticleer vocal ensemble is featured at ticketed events around the world. 

 

On Sunday, Oct. 22, locals will have an opportunity to witness their interpretations of vocal literature - from Renaissance to jazz to gospel - at All Saints Catholic Church in a free concert. 

 

Chanticleer was invited to sing at All Saints after the church's Director of Music and Liturgy Stephen Pishner witnessed one of the group's shows and so impressed, he suggested that the church host a concert. 

 

"I had heard them before - and had some of their CDs," he said. "I knew they were the best in the world." 

 

The event is funded through a grant from the Barbara B. Highland Fund for the Arts.

 

"We are excited that we can give this concert away for free," Pishner said. "Historically, the church in general - throughout much of Europe - was a patron and promoter of art, music and drama. In a way, we are doing something within the tradition of the church."

 

Chanticleer will, however, take that to a new level. 

 

"Their musical repertoire is quite extensive and 'athletic' in a way for the voice and brain," Pishner said. "They sing in several different languages, whlie doing the concert a cappella."

 

Founded in 1978, Chanticleer has won multiple Grammy awards including Best Small Ensemble Performance in 1999 for "Colors of Love." Other recording projects, "Lamentations" and "Praises," also nabbed Grammys in 2001.

 

Also called "America's A Cappella Pride and Joy," Chanticleer has sung in beautiful concert halls and churches worldwide, among many other venues, including New York's Central Park. The group - which over the past 39 years has included more than 100 vocalists - has commissioned more than 70 composers to write more than 90 original pieces for the group.

 

Chanticleer's albums have been sold in more than 60 countries, making the group's name recognizable across the globe. 

 

The vocal ensemble has performed with various artists, including musicologist Craig Russell and Mexican composers Manuel de Zumaya and Ignacio de Jerusalem, the Shanghai Quartet and St. Paul Orchestra, to name a few.

 

Chanticleer is also pro-education, reaching out to more than 5,000 students annually. 

 

Pishner said he believes the world-renowned group will enjoy performing at All Saints.

 

"I think they are going to love singing here since the acoustics are perfect for what they do," he said. "And we can't wait for them to experience the hospitality and welcoming spirit of All Saints and our local area, as well."

 

Pishner invites all members of the public to attend the upcoming evening of great music in a great space. They will not be disappointed. 

 

"We hope this concert will be uplifting to people and will dazzle their ears and hearts with 'the wow factor' of the richness and beauty of music," he said. "We encourage singers, instrumentalist, music lovers and the like to consider attending this concert."

 

The parish has been contacted by universities and colleges who wish to send music students and faculty.

 

"Many people who I have talked to in the music world cannot believe we are giving the concert away for free," Pishner said. "We are most proud of that."

 

The show starts at 6 p.m. and those attending are asked to register at allsaintsbridgeport.com, by calling 304-842-2283 or in person at All Saints Church on East Main Street.

 

All Saints is located at 317 East Main Street, Bridgeport.