Side-by-Side Concert
October 10, 2026
“Kids singing together with the Master Chorale, that’s amazing. They can hear the musicians around them. It helps them grow just by listening.”
—Wendy Charines, Music Teacher San Ysidro High School & SD Master Chorale Singer
The San Diego Master Chorale’s Side-by-Side Concert brings local high school choir students together with Chorale singers for a shared rehearsal and performance experience. Students sing alongside experienced ensemble members, build their musicianship, and experience the energy of performing as part of a large choral ensemble.
Join us for a special musical experience! The SD Master Chorale presents HORIZONS: Side-by-Side, a unique community concert on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 4:30 pm. High school choir students will take the stage alongside the San Diego Master Chorale, performing selections from HORIZONS.
The concert will showcase SD Master Chorale first, followed by an exciting moment when the students join them on stage. This is a rare opportunity for students to rehearse and perform with seasoned voices, gaining invaluable experience in a professional choral setting. Bring your friends and family for an unforgettable afternoon of song!
HORIZONS: Side-by-Side Concert
SDSU Smith Recital Hall
State University, 5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego
San Diego Master Chorale | Music Director John K. Russell
Mira Mesa High School | Marielena Teng
Mission Bay High School | Lorelei Garner
Point Loma High School | Joshua Anderson
This concert is general admission and will last approximately one hour without intermission. Doors open for seating at 4:00 pm. Admission is free, but advance registration is required.
PARKING: Patron parking is available in SDSU Parking Structure 12 (P12). Drive to the top level of the structure, then take the pedestrian footbridge across to Smith Recital Hall. Please pay for parking at the kiosk or by phone.
ABOUT THE SIDE-BY-SIDE PROGRAM
The Side-by-Side Program is an annual event that brings high school students and professional singers together on stage for an unforgettable shared music-making experience. Each year, the program is hosted in a different school district, giving young singers across San Diego County the chance to rehearse and perform alongside the Chorale.
In the weeks leading up to the concert, the Chorale’s Music Director, John K. Russell, visits participating schools to lead workshops, helping students sharpen their vocal technique, ensemble skills, and confidence as performers. The program culminates in a public concert where students and Chorale members stand shoulder to shoulder, creating music together.
Recently, students from the Sweetwater Union High School District—including singers from San Ysidro, Bonita, Chula Vista, and Olympian High Schools—joined SDMC in a moving performance of Frostiana, Randall Thompson’s choral setting of Robert Frost’s poetry.
Through Side-by-Side, the Chorale not only shares the stage but also builds lasting connections with young musicians—inspiring the next generation of singers while enriching San Diego’s musical community.
Explore more San Diego Master Chorale community engagement programs or view our complete 2026–27 Season.