Submitted by David Warder
The Community Christmas Cantata Choir has been rehearsing since Thanksgiving for this year’s presentation, “And It Came to Pass Emmanuel.”
Having led the choir for over 10 years, we have quite a library of music now, so I decided to go back and choose one of my favourite cantatas for this year.
“And it Came to Pass Emmanuel” was the first cantata by Jay Rouse and Rose Aspinall that the choir performed. To that point, it was also the most difficult; quite different in style from anything I had attempted before. At the time, the husband of one of our choir members described the cantata as “glorious” – not a word we use every day and certainly not a word this man was known for using. As I recall, those performances were enthusiastically received by those who attended.
Filled with challenging rhythms, tempos and harmonies and a stunning piano accompaniment, we all have had a good workout, this fall, getting ready. Rehearsals are going well, posters are up and we’re getting excited to present this beautiful retelling of the Christmas Story.
Besides the Cantata, the evening will feature some seasonal solos by choir members and carol singing for everyone. To wrap up the evening, there will be an opportunity to enjoy some Christmas goodies while mingling with the choir and your friends and neighbours.
In a world seemingly gone mad, this evening of uplifting music should get you into the Christmas spirit leading up to the big day.
Performances are Tuesday, December 16 and Wednesday, December 17 at 7:30 pm at the Bethel Evangelical Missionary Church, 18 Ferndale Road, Lion’s Head. Admission is $10 plus a food item for the Food Bank. Net cash proceeds after the choir’s expenses will be divided between the Lion’s Head and District Food Bank and the Women’s Centre Grey Bruce.
I hope you can come out and enjoy this evening of Christmas stories, songs and food on the 16th or 17th.
Merry Christmas!
David Warder
