Take the opportunity to transport yourself back in time, and let mesmerizing voices of praise lift tensions away.

You will soon forget how sure you are that Church music is “not your thing,” and find yourself absorbed in the experience.

Quire of Voyces, a choral ensemble sponsored by City College and directed by the school’s own Nathan Kreitzer, will be performing Sergei Rachmaninoff’s not-to-be-missed “Liturgy of St. John of Chrysostom.” The performance will be held at 7 p.m. March 13 and 14 at St. Anthony’s Seminary on 2300 Garden Street, in Santa Barbara.

Tickets will be available at the Garvin Theater Box Office. General admission is $20, $15 for students and seniors.

Rachmaninoff used the text of Chrysostom’s writing in his a cappella composition. The Russian Orthodox ecclesiastical authorities initially refused to allow its use in Church services because the work was seen as too modern.

Kreitzer, director of choral and vocal activities at City College and the choir’s founder, is amiable but firm in his direction during practice sessions.

During rehearsal, Kreitzer can be found in the triple-wide trailer that serves as the choir’s temporary rehearsal room. He sits on a tall stool in front of a semi-circle of chairs, eyes fixed on his music. Choir members filter in, scores in hand, smiles on their faces.

The group was founded in 1993 with the aim of re-awakening the sacred music of the Renaissance. The choir is composed of 25 professional singers who audition annually for their part in the choir.

Many participants have a City College connection beyond the choir’s association with the college.

The choir’s members are not just typical-aged college students – the group is filled with musicians of all ages.

“Welcome, everybody. Let’s start with Number Two,” Kreitzer said, beginning the rehearsal.

The pianist began to warm up.

“Okay, page five. One, two, three . . .” Kreitzer said.

Instantly, what was once happy pre-practice banter metamorphosed into something that transports the listener to another world.

One cannot help being absorbed into the sound, the mood, and the sanctity of the music.

If Voyces alone can transform you, being surrounded by the light and old world charm of St. Anthony’s will make for a memorable, rejuvenating evening.