MUSIC

Merger talks between the Orange County-based Pacific Chorale and the Master Chorale of Orange County have reportedly hit a snag. An announcement this week from the Pacific Chorale included its first public endorsement of its music director, John Alexander, as leader of a joint group, should the merger take place. In response, the Master Chorale’s board voiced its “overwhelming and unanimous support for (its conductor) William Hall,” according to a spokesperson for the group. However, John Rhynerson, board chairman of the Master Chorale and a member of the merger committee, said that committee had agreed that “there would have to be national search, of which William Hall and John Alexander would be leading candidates, to bring to Orange County the best available candidate for this position.” Talks are expected to continue.