For its 17th season of choral concerts, Chorale Coeur d’ Alene — formerly the Northwest Sacred Music Chorale — is expanding its reach, both geographically and musically.

For one thing, the chorale will perform in Sandpoint’s beautifully restored Panida Theater on Tuesday, October 17, the first ever presentation at that venue for the all-volunteer singers.

Additionally, to expand the overall theme of “Spirit Awake” for the fall concert series, the chorale will present familiar and beloved American melodies by composers ranging from Stephen Foster (Jeannie) to Aaron Copland (Old American Songs).

Chorale Artistic Director Dr. Stan McDaniel chose Psalm 42 as the foundation for the concerts, with its vivid description of the deep human yearning to be refreshed with God’s love (As the hart pants).

He opens the concerts with 16th century Italian master Palestrina’s motet setting of Psalm 42, “Sicut Cervus,” followed by Felix Mendelssohn’s version of the psalm. Dr. Amy Porter of Gonzaga University will be soprano soloist in the Mendelssohn work. She will also perform a soaring aria, “Hear ye, Israel,” from Mendelssohn’s “Elijah.”

A third setting of Psalm 42 is a brand new version - the first time it’ll be heard in the Pacific Northwest - titled “As The Deer” by Douglas Byler.

A smaller chamber group called “Vocal Essence” drawn from the 70-voice Chorale Coeur d’ Alene will blend two sacred works, Byler’s “As The Deer” and Moses Hogan’s powerful spiritual “We Shall Walk Through the Valley in Peace,” with a taste of Americana, Stephen Foster’s “I Dream of Jeannie.”

Chorale accompanist David Brewster will pick up the American theme, flying solo with Copland’s delightful “Four Piano Blues.”

Dr. McDaniel said the Chorale is eager to branch out with a broader, even more exciting repertoire. And he stressed that the group’s commitment to bring the great choral music of the ages to our audiences is unwavering.

The chorale also has concerts scheduled for Friday, Oct. 20 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Coeur d’ Alene, 7 p.m.; and Saturday, Oct. 21, Trinity Lutheran Church in Coeur d’ Alene, 3 p.m.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors or active military personnel, and $10 for students.

Information: Tom Bacon or Judi Horton, 208-665-0871; or choralecda.com