The Susquehanna Valley Chorale will kick off its new season with a popular program presented several years ago, a press release said. “The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass” will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 26 and 3:00 p.m. on Oct. 27 at Rusty Rail Brewery in Mifflinburg. SVC’s performance will also feature a collection of songs entitled “Dear Appalachia: Songs from My Mountain Home.” Minnesota-based bluegrass ensemble, Monroe Crossing, will join the SVC for this concert.

Patrons are encouraged to arrive early for a pre-concert reception, featuring a cash bar with Rusty Rail’s favorite brews, beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, according to the press release.

“‘Bluegrass Mass’ is a joyful affirmation of life expressed in sophisticated choral sound and jubilant bluegrass harmonies,” said the press release.

The piece follows the traditional structure for a mass; taking a very familiar thematic structure and setting it in a fresh and communal way. Composer Carol Barnett has been hailed as a writer of audacious and engaging music. The piece comprises parts for solos, choir, bluegrass band, and then movements that bring SVC and Monroe Crossing together.

Soloists will include Amy Caron of Selinsgrove and three scholarship recipients: Kirsten Weirich and Rob Speece from Susquehanna University and Rebecca Lipsky from Bucknell University.

“Monroe Crossing’s superb musicianship and on-stage rapport have entertained audiences for over 20 years,” the release said.

In 2007, Monroe Crossing was inducted into the Minnesota Music Hall of Fame and they have twice been selected to showcase at the annual World of Bluegrass convention hosted by the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA).

The SVC presented this work in the fall of 2010 at the Weis Center for the Performing Arts and soon became an audience favorite.

Music Director and Conductor Bill Payn said, “I am excited to return to Rusty Rail following the success of our Dylan concert two years ago! We are looking forward to collaborating once again with Monroe Crossing, one of America’s premiere Bluegrass bands.”

For more information, visit SVCmusic.org or call 570-547-0455.