The Syracuse Chorale will present “Great Joy: A Gospel Christmas” at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10, at DeWitt Community Church, 3600 Erie Blvd. East. The centerpiece of the concert is a series of gospel arrangements of familiar Christmas songs, performed with the Syracuse University Brass Ensemble.
The 50-member choir performs under the direction of Dr. Peppie Calvar. Dr. James T. Spencer directs the brass ensemble, which is composed of Syracuse University students, faculty and staff, State University of New York Upstate Medical University faculty and staff and other upstate New York musicians.
A reception and silent auction to benefit the chorale will follow the performance.
Calvar has been Syracuse Chorale’s artistic director since July 2015. He teaches music and performance at Syracuse University’s Setnor School of Music. He also directs the Hendricks Chapel Choir. Jolanis Alexandre is Syracuse Chorale’s accompanist.
Advance tickets are $12, available at syracusechorale.org or from chorale members. Tickets at the door are $15; children accompanied by an adult are admitted free. For ticket information, call 446-6333 or email [email protected].
Chorale is also collaborating with SUBE for two other holiday concerts. The groups will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, at Cortland High School. The concert is sponsored by the Cortland Rotary Club. Tickets $15 for adults and $5 for students. Proceeds to benefit scholarship funds for Cortland County High School seniors.
The SU Brass and Bells Holiday Concert is at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, at United Church of Fayetteville. The UCF Handbell Choir will also perform. The concert is free, although there will be a free-will collection and attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for the Fayetteville-Manlius “Outreach.”
Chorale will also present concerts April 3 and June 4. New members are welcome at the beginning of the spring season, which begins Jan. 12.
Syracuse Chorale is a non-audition choir that aspires to create beautiful music in a welcoming community for singers at all levels. We aim to create a community of musicians that enjoys performing, is committed to excellence and is eager to keep learning and growing its musical excellence. Chorale typically offers three performances each season. The choir was formed in 1953 and is run by a volunteer, elected board.
The choir rehearses 7 to 9:15 p.m. Tuesdays at DeWitt Community Church. For more information on our schedule and membership fees, follow the Syracuse Chorale on Facebook, visit syracusechorale.org or email [email protected].
For more information about SUBE, follow the group on Facebook or visit subrass.syr.edu.
