Jan Ott

On Thursday night, December 8, the Sun Lakes United Methodist Church was the site of the Chorale’s annual holiday concert. The once-again packed house welcomed popular solos including Ron Young’s White Christmas, Jack Perin’s The Christmas Song, Tenni Annen’s Silver Bells and Martha Wood’s No Golden Carriage depicting the simplicity of the first Christmas.

Percussionist BJ Van Noy and pianist/organist Caroline Brown skillfully created the mood for the variety of themes represented. Caroline was joined by Director Cris Evans as they performed a four-hand accompaniment to Cold December Flies Away. Performance Coordinator Bart Evans was soloist for African Star Carol and Hanukkah Wish featured soloist Dan Morson. The audience responded heartily to Amen! Tell it on the Mountain, as well as the ever-popular Jingle Bells.

The group’s emotion and skill were clearly evidenced by O Holy Night! which brought a standing ovation. Shalom, offered as a round, was sung from the church aisles, bringing the performance to a close.

Other Chorale members, including MJ Clement who prepares the program and all promotional materials, contribute toward the success of this group. First and foremost, they share themselves as well as the goal of spreading the wondrous joy of music. One cannot ask for a nicer holiday gift – unless it’s the prospect of another such event on March 24 in the New Year.