On July 6, 2019, the Community Music Center lost a long-term vocal faculty with the passing of Ina Chalis (1928–2019). Ina started teaching at CMC in 1966 and brought her training in voice, piano, Italian and Russian opera and art songs to CMC students. She was the director of the Ina Chalis Opera Ensemble that performed throughout the Bay Area in theaters, churches, schools, and community centers for decades. Ina was instrumental in bringing Menotti’s opera Amahl and the Night Visitors to CMC, and for more than 20 years, Ina’s group presented the opera as a prelude to CMC’s annual holiday party. Flautist Ruth Keys, one of her former associates, says “Ina worked tirelessly to bring music to people’s lives, and to the larger community. Her contribution needs to be acknowledged and celebrated.” This year marks the 5th anniversary of her passing, and some of her former students and associates have come together to organize a tribute concert to Ina.
July 6, 2024 from 1–4pm
CMC Concert Hall
Free
Contact Ellen at eyeung11@yahoo.com to RSVP or with questions.