WARM Christmas Cantata – Sunday, December 8 at 10:00 am and 3:00 pm

A Ceremony of Carols, composed by Benjamin Britton in 1942, is an eleven song work that includes solos, duets, and full choruses, all accompanied by harp. The cantata will be presented at First United Methodist Church, 145 S. Prairie St., twice on Sunday, Dec. 8. The 10 am presentation is embedded in the morning service while the 3:00 performance will also have a guest presentation by the UW-W Tuba ensemble playing Christmas carols. The full choir is comprised of singers from FUMC, Bethel UMC, LaGrange UMC, and the UCC Congregational Church.

Lauren Hayes, Chicago professional harpist, is featured in this stunning collaboration of voices and harp. The work tells the Christmas story using Middle English and Modern English and a little Latin. The musical styles range from Medieval Chant to contemporary chords and invigorating rhythms. Soloists featured are Katie Fortney, Jennifer Crone, Barb Taylor, Kay Ebert and Nathan Roley. The choir is accompanied by James Athas and conducted by Christine Hayes.

A Ceremony of Carols is a prominent work in Christian choral music and an event not to be missed. The harp accompaniment joined with the singing is wickedly exciting and not frequently heard! The addition of the UW-W Tuba Ensemble filling the sanctuary with glorious deep sounds is a wonderful bonus.

As always, these performances are free of charge and open to all. Bring your friends!

Editor’s note: The above press release was provided by First United Methodist Church.