New Oratorio “They Will Live On” Premieres in Palm Desert with Free Community Performance

A new original work is coming to Palm Desert this weekend, offering audiences a powerful reflection on family, loss, and legacy. They Will Live On is a newly composed oratorio presented by Coachella Valley Classical Voices, with a free public performance scheduled for Sunday, February 15 at 3 p.m.

The piece was created by composer Joe Jeruso and director Doug Nagel, who say the project began after an introduction by local writer LT Crozino. The collaboration grew into a 24-minute oratorio centered on themes of parental loss, grief, and the idea of living on through the values and memories passed down by family.

The work asks listeners to reflect on how they remember their parents and, in turn, how they themselves would want to be remembered. Organizers say the theme resonates across generations, especially in the Coachella Valley.

The performance features approximately 30 singers, including a full chorus, soloists representing all voice types, quartets, and duets. The oratorio will be presented alongside additional musical selections as part of the program.

The concert will take place at Hope Palm Desert, located at 45900 Portola Avenue in Palm Desert. Admission is free, and no tickets are required.

Coachella Valley Classical Voices is a local vocal ensemble made up of trained singers who balance professional careers with their passion for music. The group regularly presents performances featuring opera and Broadway selections, with this weekend’s concert focusing on classical repertoire.

The organization also has future performances planned later this spring, including a concert in March and a co-produced operetta, The Merry Widow, scheduled for May.

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