WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., Nov. 15, 2016 — West Liberty University Community Chorus, along with orchestra, will perform “Hodie: a Christmas Cantata” at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 19 at the J.B. Chambers Performing Arts Center, Wheeling Park High School. The work is by English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958).
“The work also represents a total synthesis of Vaughan Williams’ style including modal harmonies, complex rhythms, beautiful folk song melodies and lush orchestration. It is rarely performed, and not to be missed!” said Dr. Scott Glysson, WLU director of choral activities and assistant professor of music.
The concert will include 70 Community Chorus voices and will feature special guests the Pittsburgh Youth Chorus (about 20 additional voices) and is made possible by Vance Memorial Presbyterian Church Special Music Fund, which provides funding for all Community Chorus events.
“Hodie” is a Christmas Cantata completed in 1954, and was Vaughan Williams’ last major work. Scored for large orchestra, a soprano, alto, tenor, bass choir, soloists and a Boy Choir, the piece is of grandiose size and magnitude. Mostly in English (with occasional Latin) the work depicts the story of Christ’s birth through Boy Choir sung narration, choral responses and soloist contemplations,” Glysson said.
They chorus has been rehearsing for the performance since August.
“It’s a big orchestra that is joining us and includes both students and professional musicians from Pittsburgh and Wheeling,” said Glysson.
St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church Music Director Robert Troeger will be playing the organ for the concert and members of the St. Matthew choir also will be in the chorus.
WLU’s music program offers students many opportunities to perform. The WLU Singers is the elite student-only group with membership gained by audition. It is the touring choir that represents the University at on and off-campus events.
The Community Chorus is open to all members of the community who enjoy singing and also includes WLU students. It meets weekly for rehearsals at Vance Presbyterian Church and is easy to join.
For tickets to Hodie, please visit wluchoir.brownpapertickets.com or call the music office at 304.336.8006.
Tickets will also be available at the door and payable by cash or check only. Doors will open one hour before each show and seating is limited.