Christmas concert set for Sunday

The Highland Community Chorus will present its third annual Christmas concert on Sunday, Dec. 13 at 3 p.m. at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1412 9^th St., in Highland.

The theme of this year’s concert is “Carols Ancient and New.”

“For hundreds of years, humankind has celebrated the birth of Jesus by lifting up voices in song. In the program, you will hear carols dating from centuries ago,” said director Luanne Murphy. “You will experience fresh, new settings of ancient texts, and you will enjoy newly written Christmas music. Our wish is that these songs will awaken in your heart the awe, mystery, wonder, and joy of the season.”

The concert will open with the familiar O Come Emmanuel in a fresh and simple setting by Murphy and Steve Stack, the composer-in-residence for the group.

“It’s great having Steve in chorus as a singer, composer, and arranger. His knowledge of music theory is second to none, so I know I can always consult with him on styles ranging from Gregorian chant to jazz,” Murphy said.

There will be several pairings of songs, with texts treated by composers from centuries ago, and those of today. The audience will also enjoy some familiar favorites, including great settings of The First Noel, Angels We Have Heard on High, and a rousing rendition of Jingle Bells. The concert will conclude with music from A Charlie Brown Christmas. This is a timely selection, as the original Peanuts movie is 50 years old this year, just as the new Peanuts movie is in theaters now.

This story was originally published December 11, 2015 at 3:21 AM with the headline "Christmas concert set for Sunday."