The Vision Behind "Purple Reign": Join AfterGlow Chorus for our 2026 Season
- AfterGlow Chorus
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
As we move into the second full week of the new year, AfterGlow Chorus is in high gear. We are hard at work preparing for our Spring 2026 season, and the energy is already palpable.
When we began planning this series, we knew we wanted to create something that pushed the boundaries of the traditional choral experience. The result is "Purple Reign"—a bold, soulful tribute marking the 10th anniversary of Prince’s passing.
This program is more than just a tribute; it is a curated exploration of the musical genres that influenced "The Artist" and the contemporary composers who carry that spirit of innovation today. We are thrilled to bring this music to the community with our signature concerts held at the historic and beautiful St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Oakland, located in the heart of the vibrant Lake Merritt neighborhood.
From Prince to Duke Ellington: A Diverse Musical Landscape
As an advanced chamber choir, AfterGlow Chorus thrives on stylistic contrast. Our singers master a vast range of vocal colors across a concert program:
The Funk & Soul of Prince: We are diving into sophisticated a cappella and accompanied arrangements of Purple Rain, 7, and When Doves Cry. These are intricate vocal works that require both technical precision and deep groove.
The Sophistication of Duke Ellington: We pay homage to the roots of American jazz and sacred music with the legendary works of Duke Ellington, a primary influence on the soundscapes Prince would eventually build.
Contemporary Masterpieces: We pair these icons with the intellectual depth of modern choral greats like Jake Runestad, Adolphus Hailstork, and Betty Jackson King.
The Foundations of Gospel: To understand the soul of modern music, we perform cornerstones of the genre, including Richard Smallwood’s soaring masterpiece, "Total Praise."
Seeking Versatile Vocalists in the East Bay
Because this program spans from R&B and Jazz to complex classical structures, we are looking for experienced singers who pride themselves on their musical flexibility.
If you are a vocalist who can handle the technical demands of a contemporary classical score and the soulful resonance of a gospel anthem, you will find your home in our chorus. We move quickly through our Spring 2026 Rehearsal Schedule, preparing for our mainstage performances at the stunning St. Paul's Oakland by Lake Merritt.
Join the AfterGlow Community
This is your invitation to be part of a high-caliber choir that is redefining choral music in the San Francisco Bay Area. Singer auditions are being held now on a rolling basis at our rehearsal home in Uptown Oakland.
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