John M. Valdez, Reviewer PPAG

Roman Catholics are often chided for the elaborate architecture of their Cathedrals. I have heard it said that the builders wanted to create what they thought heaven might look like. This was their inspiration. But no matter where you stand on this you can’t help but to be deeply moved by the breath taking beauty of Pueblo’s Sacred Heart Cathedral. The location just added to the grand performance of the Bel Canto Singers.

May 15^th at 4pm the trio of groups surrounded the crowd and filled the Cathedral with lovely voices. The children then broke up into their respective groups and the show was under-way. The largest group Bel Canto Singers was the first to take the stage. The songs were wonderful and voices charming. At times the instruments drowned out the choir but that soon passed. One of the songs highlighted a group of youngsters who sang solos. They added much to the performance.

Second on stage was the newest and oldest in age. The group Bella Voce was made up of middle school singers under the direction of Susan Kinnischtzke. Although the songs were quite inspiring the voices of the males were a bit soft and difficult to hear. However the entire group wowed and dazzled the crowd with a Bob Dylan tune, Ring Them Bells and the popular Ben E. King song, Stand By Me. Both were awesome to hear.

Next on stage was the youngest and smallest group. The Bella Con Brio made up of kindergarten-second grade students stood up proud and tall. They were short two singers due to illness. However the brave and talented remaining two girls and one boy kept the show going. Their pleasant rendition of Chatter with Angels was the sweetest of the entire show.

The Bel Canto group then returned for their second set. Christine Reed directed both groups wonderfully. The entire show was an amazing afternoon of music. Please be on the look out for the next show of Bel Canto Singers. They are a very talented and outstanding group of youngsters. You can find out dates and locations at www.pueblopag.org. Huge congratulations go out to Ms. Reed and her extremely talented group. It was truly a pleasure to behold.