From South Holland Master Chorale
Contact:
Phil Schwartz,
phil42147@yahoo.com

South Holland Master Chorale presents Holiday Joy and Fanfare.

The South Holland Master Chorale will be joined by Chicago Gargoyle Brass Ensemble, along with organist Mark Sudeith and pianist Marilyn Bourgeois, in a pair of holiday concerts in December.

“Holiday Joy and Fanfare” will be presented December 1 at 4 p.m. at St. John Neumann Parish, 17951 Dixie Highway, Homewood, and December 8 at 4 p.m. at Christ Our Savior Parish, 880 East 154th Street, South Holland.

The concerts, directed by Philip Bauman, will feature a variety of holiday favorites, including traditional English, French, and German carols and Latin hymns. Audience members will be invited to join in some of these popular hymns. A special work of note on the program is “Christmas Day,” a choral fantasy by English composer Gustav Holst that draws on a variety of old carols.

Among the more moving pieces is “The Work of Christmas,” a setting by contemporary American composer Dan Forrest of a poem by mid-20th century African-American theologian and mystic Howard Thurman. Speaking of the poem on which this song is based, Forrest says, “Its beautiful lines call us not to merely take in the sights and sounds of the Christmas celebration, but to respond by doing our part in working toward the ‘peace on Earth’ that we so often sing about.”

A highlight of the program is a Latin hymn by 16th century Italian composer Giovanni Gabrieli, “Hodie Christus Natus Est” (Christ Is Born Today). In this setting, the Chorale divides into two distinct four-part choirs, accompanied by organ and brass ensemble.

“In this season of joy and anticipation, we look forward to showcasing the chorus in brand  new and familiar adaptions of seasonal favorites. Don’t miss this Master Chorale tradition that ushers in the season with glorious fanfare, bringing the community together in a joyous celebration,” stated Bauman.

Admission to these concerts is free, and donations are accepted. For more information, visit www.southhollandmasterchorale.org, email info@southhollandmasterchorale.org, or phone 708-210-2913.