SONGS OF THE SURROUNDED PT 2.

By Noel Serrano

TAKING THE INITIAL STEP

The Choir began to rehearse for their first and only record. The planned selections were "Peace in the Valley", (Paz en el Valle) "The Holy City" (La Ciudad Santa) Raul Gonzalez also planned for a trumpet solo; "His love for me" (Fue su amor por mi ) The small record was an instant favorite and marked a watershed in the life of this beloved Choir. the record reveals the classic sound of the Choir: "Ecos de vida" The range and the dynamic crescendo of voices are still a delight to hear. If one listens very closely, Joaquin's voice is heard and Felicita, Nieves and Carmen can be clearly acknowledged. It was in the mid-sixties when the Choir was to endure a major crisis. Raul Gonzalez had parted from the Lord, the church and the Choir that he never stopped loving. The Choir was now being guided by Raul's sister, Carmen Ortiz. Carmen was officially appointed by Rev. Berrios to direct the church Choir who was known by many in the Choir as "Lala", would be the Director who guided the Choir trough this difficult period.

Carmen was directing a group of ladies from the Choir for many months. Rev. Berrios had told the church that he had been praying for guidance when the Lord had indicated that Carmen Ortiz was to lead the Choir. He gazed at the Choir and gave them full support by replenishing additional Choir robes. The Choir was now resuming in official capacity. The Choir would use these robes on special occasions like Christmas and Easter. Rev. Berrios loved when they wore the robes. He once indicated that the Choir should wear them everytime that they sang. The dark blue robes were enhance with long, golden collars with the embossed initials "Ecos de Vida" It was a majestic visage as the grand choir marched down the aisle to be positioned at the Choir loft on the right-hand side of La Sinagoga. The rehearsals for the Choir resumed on Thursday at 8:00 PM

Carmen Ortiz, a tall, energetic woman hurried to the second floor of the church and headed towards the piano. a small service and prayer would take place befoer each rehearsal. The specific tune was practiced with each group, going to the piano and then rehearsing separately. The groups would join as soon as we all heard the familiar voice callng "Toditos" (ALL) The choir would then come together and the song was born. Great friends were developed. They have existed for many years due to the closeness of this ministry.

Many weeks of rehearsals would be spent on the Easter and Christmas songs. The revered "Canticos Nuevos" and the Hallelujah Chorus were among the favorites of the Choir. There is a haunting song that comes to mind during the 1960s. It is vintage of the times and the very mysterious melody..."Huye Cual Habia Tu Monte" "Oh Alma angustiada de Mal" The gentle staccato and soft cadence entwined with powerful delivery and message inspired all listeners and God blessed the congregation. "Oh Alma Angustiada De Mal" bellowed the Choir as God lifted the chorale to a spiritual mount where the blessngs flowed in profound ways. Carmen Ortiz diligently directed the Choir throughout the period of the sixties. Carmen was still directing the choir through 1995. She directed with the same consistency and devotion that the past Directors had. Carmen increased the list of the selections , with notable musicals such as "Manda Tu Luz", EL Triunfo De La Cruz" and "Los Cielos Proclaman La Gloria De Dios" The Choir rehearsed for many years for the Easter classic, "Los Cielos Proclaman" When the day finally arrived, there was great anticipation and excitement. The choir was in full regalia as they prepared to sing this very difficult, but angelic melody. The song had many counterpoints and the melodic phrases were magnificent. The congregation was very attentive this night.

It was on Easter sunday of 1974 and the Choir began with a thunderous delivery, "Los Cielos Proclaman La Gloria De Dios!" this selection had four soloists. Margie and Blas Ortiz along with Clarita Maldonado and Damaris Rosario. The existing recording is spellbinding for all who have ever heard it. (The vintage recordings are owned by the Gala Foundation) The Choir was a well tuned instrument and all voices were synchronized in true fashion. It was as if angels were surrounding them and aiding in additional voices. The faces of the congregation reflected a deep reverence. Many recalled the powerful song and the way the Spirit of the Lord manifested throughout the sanctuary. (TO BE CONTINUED)