The Northside Celebration

When the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra teams up this weekend with a 60-member multicultural choir conducted by Sanford Moore, it will be the fruit of a long-dreamed-of effort. Three years ago Twin Cities performer Dennis Spears, who works as artistic director of the Capri Theater's Legend concert series, hatched the idea with folks from the SPCO of a concert that would bring together "the rainbow of people in our community," and "lift up the area with music, stories and poetry" in a "celebration of all the beauty that's here." Spears will alternate with Yolande Bruce as host of the 90-minute, no intermission concert. The centerpiece is the premiere of "True North," composer Timothy Takach's work for choir and orchestra that features spoken word by MC Desdamona, based on the writings and dreams of children. The celebration also includes beloved storyteller Nothando Zulu. (4 p.m. Sat.-Sun., North High School, 1500 James Av. N., Mpls. Free admission but tickets are required. 651-291-1144 or thespco.org.)

Rohan Preston