A Mother's Pride

Capping an evening benefiting the Pacific Chorale at the Orange County Performing Arts Center in Costa Mesa, vocalist-conductor Bobby McFerrin led the choir in a version of the 23rd Psalm that he dedicated to his mother, Sara McFerrin.

Having a son who is spiritual and artistically successful (Bobby McFerrin has won 10 Grammys) "is very rewarding," said Sara McFerrin, a Pacific Chorale board member, during a pre-concert dinner for about 150 people in Founders Hall. "It really makes you count your blessings. People ask me if he studied voice and I say, 'No. He did this all on his own.' "

Landing McFerrin to sing and conduct at the benefit concert was a coup for the chorale, observed center President Jerry Mandel. "He's one of the most inventive entertainers out there," he said, adding that McFerrin "does incredible things with his voice."

Proceeds from the May 19 event co-chaired by Jan Landstrom and Dorcas Preston are estimated at $100,000. The money will be used for chorale expenses and children's education programs.