Bringing the joy

I cannot remember a time when music was not a part of Christmas.  In hindsight, it would seem that much of my love of music started with those pleasant December memories. There was always the sacred music at church in which I was involved, that on the radio and TV, and the ever-present music from the centrally located "stereo" at our home. On that, we would hear performances by Roger Wagner, Norman Luboff, Robert Shaw, and many others.  I even remember a setting of Fum, Fum, Fum as performed by Tex Johnson and his Six-Shooters.  Truly memorable.  All those sounds fill my memories and replay on an infinite loop.

As a professional musician, I have been privileged to have opportunities to continue those Christmas musical experiences.  Of course, it helps that most composers have been invested in providing music for the Advent/Christmas season and that much of that is pedagogically, historically, and vocally interesting, compelling, and edifying. So, for going on half-a-century, I have usually spent many weeks preparing each fall preparing for Christmas concerts.  The was never a moment when it was not a joy.

But, and speaking as a music director who is charged with choosing repertoire, I am always looking for new perspectives from which to select music.  Last year, the ACS was heavily invested in MESSIAH and, for 2019, we really wanted to compile a program that was different thematically, displayed some of our vocal talent, was intriguing to pursue vocally, and would be gratifying and thrilling to hear.  Thus, we have selected some compelling carols, several obscure nuggets, extended works by well-known composers, and a selection or two just for fun - all under the umbrella of music (for Christmas) from English sources.

Come, and hear, and celebrate, and revel, and rejoice.  It's our Christmas gift to you.