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, Oct. 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.”

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

Tickets are available online at ChoraleCdA.com, Trinity Lutheran Church in Coeur d’Alene, or Peace Lutheran Church in Post Falls; Northwest Music Center in Coeur d’Alene, or from Chorale Coeur d’Alene member.

For information, contact Tom Bacon or Judi Horton 208-665-0871, or go to ChoraleCdA.co