A&E

Four years after its acclaimed Shakespeare in Song, the Phoenix Chorale (formerly the Phoenix Bach Choir) has released a new CD, Spotless Rose: Hymns to the Virgin Mary.

Out last week on the Chandos label, the disc features contemporary composers and includes world-premiere recordings of works by Javier Busto and Jean Belmont Ford.

Now entering its 50th season, the choir has changed its name to reflect its forward-looking repertoire and as a nod to its sister status with the Kansas City Chorale. Both are led by maestro Charles Bruffy, and their joint recording Passion Week got four nominations at this year's Grammy Awards (winning one for best-engineered classical album).

Recorded in Super Audio surround sound, the CD is on sale for $20 through the choir's Web site, phoenixchorale.org.

Local film wins award

A locally produced film inspired by the 1997 "Phoenix lights" mystery won a pair of awards at the San Diego Film Festival last week.

The Appearance of a Man received the Heineken Red Star Award for filmmaker Daniel Pace, recognizing innovation and originality. Michael Tassoni, a veteran of the local stage, was named best actor for his portrayal of Father Michael, a priest whose life is changed when he meets a mysterious man shortly after the strange lights appeared in the Valley sky.

More information on the film, as well as a trailer, can be found online at theappearance ofaman.com.