Everett Chorale hits the holidays

December 4, 2009 - Everett Herald

The Everett Chorale will present its 2009 holiday concert, "Merrily Ring the Christmas Songs," at two performances this weekend. (Read the full story here...)

Everett Chorale to Ring in the Christmas Season

November 10, 2009

Snohomish County’s 90-plus premier vocal choral ensemble, the Everett Chorale, will perform Saint-Saëns's Christmas Oratorio and a selection of bell-themed holiday favorites for this year's ever-popular holiday concerts, Merrily Ring the Christmas Songs, at the Everett Performing Arts Center on December 5 at 7:30 p.m. and December 6 at 3 p.m.

Saint-Saëns' Christmas Oratorio (Oratorio de Noël) was written in 1858 when he was just 23. The Oratorio opening prelude sets the scene for the Christmas story: its lilting pastoral quality creates images of the shepherds tending their flocks in the fields. In the remaining movements, vocal soloists represent different characters, such as the narrator of the story, while the chorus represents a multitude of angels. The final movement of the piece, which follows the tradition of French Christmas songs, is a virtual hymn of praise of all creation in the presence of God. The Chorale’s performance of this classic Christmas Oratorio will include solos by members of the choir.

The second half of the concert will feature traditional holiday favorites and a handbell choir. Pieces include Sleigh Ride, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Over the River and Through the Woods, and an arrangement of Jingle Bells by Ray Charles.