The Fresno City College choir delivered a powerful and moving performance during its spring concert, “Earth and Sky,” held the evening of May 7 in the Old Administration Building Auditorium. The concert celebrated the beauty and strength of nature through music, showcasing how sound can reflect the wonder of the world around us.
The evening began with the uplifting tones of “Sing Unto the Sky” setting a hopeful and spirited tone. The choir then transitioned into the classic “I’ll Fly Away” followed by an energetic and enthusiastic rendition of “Blue Skies” which left the audience captivated and impressed.
The concert concluded with “Earth Song” an emotional finale that resonated deeply with listeners. Its haunting beauty lingered in the auditorium long after the final note was sung.
Choir member Keira Villanueva thought the performance went great.
“We put our hardest work out. All year, we’ve been working on those pieces, and they came out really beautifully. I love how we just come together as a choir — it was beautiful,” Villanueva said.
Among the pieces Villanueva performed, her favorite was “The World Becomes Against.“
“It really talks about how, when the world is against you, you push back. Instead of giving up — which is the easiest option — pushing back means there’s always something better,” Villanueva said.
“Abby Halpern,” a choir student, also spoke about the emotional power of music and its connection to nature.
“I think that’s what music is all about. That’s why we do what we do,” Halpern said. “I think that’s why performers mainly are in it — to connect with people. There’s such importance when it comes to art and connecting with people and that humanity inside of it. It’s really important.”
Becky Messer, a collaborative pianist, praised the group’s effort.
“We did great. I thought everybody gave their best,” Messer said. “My favorite song that we performed tonight was Hymne au Soleil.”
The “Earth and Sky” concert offered a reminder of the power of choral music to evoke emotion, connect people; and celebrate the natural world.
