With support from the California Arts Council, HIGH DESERT TEST SITES (HDTS) will partner with local artist Carolyn Pennypacker Riggs to present High Desert Chorus– a free collaborative chorus to address critical, region-specific needs of mental health, civic participation, and climate emergency, culminating in a performance titled “Distance Duet”.

Through group singing and performance Chorus creates an inviting platform for transformation and expression via music; movement; social, environmental, and civic engagement; and creative collaboration. Activities include 2-hour bimonthly Chorus workshops teaching vocal technique and collaborative songwriting, performances supporting local civic and environmental events, and a final public piece. Riggs and guest musicians will provide instruction to the under-served rural community of the Morongo Basin. CAC’s support will be used for performance production/documentation and to compensate the lead artist, guest musicians, choreographer, designer, and HDTS staff.