Pacific Edge Voices

==Pacific Edge Voices== Pacific Edge Voices (PEV), formerly known as the Pacific Mozart Ensemble (PME), is a distinguished choral group based in the Bay Area, recognized for its eclectic performances and innovative approach to vocal music. Founded in 1980, the ensemble has undergone significant evolution in its artistic journey, including a name change in 2014 to better represent its unique identity and expansive repertoire. ===History=== The ensemble was originally established under the name Pacific Mozart Ensemble and was led by its founding director, Richard Grant, for 25 years. Following Grant's tenure, Dr. Lynne Morrow took over as Music Director in 2005, bringing her own distinctive vision to the group until her retirement in 2020. Ash Walker succeeded Dr. Morrow as Music Director, continuing the legacy of artistic excellence and creative exploration. In recognition of its innovative performances across various musical genres, the group rebranded itself as Pacific Edge Voices in 2014. This change mirrored the ensemble's commitment to performing a wide range of musical styles, from classical to contemporary, and its dedication to collaborating with a diverse array of composers and performing artists. ===Collaborations and Achievements=== Pacific Edge Voices boasts an impressive history of collaborations with renowned composers and artists such as John Adams, Dave Brubeck, David Lang, Bobby McFerrin, Meredith Monk, Sufjan Stevens, and Sweet Honey in the Rock. The ensemble has also worked alongside esteemed organizations like the American Bach Soloists, Berkeley Symphony Orchestra, Coro Nacional de Cuba, Napa Valley Symphony, and The Oakland East Bay Symphony. One of the ensemble's most notable achievements was a nomination for a Best Choral Performance Grammy Award in 2006 for their participation in the Harmonia Mundi recording of Leonard Bernstein's "Mass" with the Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin, conducted by Kent Nagano. Additionally, PEV has made four international tours and had the honor of debuting at Carnegie Hall in November 2005 as part of Meredith Monk’s 40th Anniversary Celebration, with selections of the performance broadcasted on WNYC radio. ===Concert Highlights=== Throughout its history, Pacific Edge Voices has delivered numerous memorable performances. Some highlights include: - The 1987 performance as the Pacific Mozart Ensemble. - The November 2003 collaboration with Kent Nagano in Berlin, performing Bernstein's "Mass." - Rehearsals and performances with Dave Brubeck in April 2004 and with Andy Williams for a holiday concert in December 2004. - The Carnegie Hall celebration of Meredith Monk in November 2005. - Concerts with Sufjan Stevens at Zellerbach Auditorium in October 2006 and rehearsals with John Zorn the following month. - Collaborations with Sweet Honey in the Rock in April 2008 and with Meredith Monk at Ann Hamilton Tower in October 2008. - The VOCAbularies performance with Bobby McFerrin in April 2010. - The performance of "Shoor-e Mastaan" by Omid Zoufounoun with Persian musicians in March 2012. - Singing with the Jorrin Orquestra during the Cuba Tour in June 2013. Pacific Edge Voices continues to be a beacon of choral music in the Bay Area, known for its "uncommon chorus" and dedication to presenting courageous and innovative vocal music programs.