5 Seasonal Works by American and Canadian Composers

Plymouth, MA – Pilgrim Festival Chorus (PFC), the region’s principal community chorus, presents a winter concert, A North American Christmas at The Church of the Pilgrimage (COTP). The chorus is conducted by Music Director William B. Richter and accompanied by Asst. Director Elizabeth Chapman Reilly on both pipe organ and piano.

A North American Christmas offers seasonal works by both American and Canadian composers, reflecting a wide variety of styles that define North American choral music. Selections ranging from robust spirituals and gospel songs, to the exquisite setting of O Magnum Mysterium by contemporary composer Morten Lauridsen, fill out the program. The Huron Carol, arranged by Canadian composer Eleanor Daley, based on a text written around 1642 by a French missionary for the Huron people, is perhaps Canada’s most iconic Christmas carol. Of special note is Glenn Rudolph’s powerful piece, The Dream Isaiah Saw. Composed at the time of the horrific events of 9/11/01, this setting looks to a future world which will someday be at peace. In full, the concert is a true holiday season smorgasbord: a melting pot of music from different times and traditions, all carrying the distinct flavors of a North American Christmas.

Since 1999, PFC has delighted South Shore audiences with classical programming, currently numbering more than 80 vocalists of all adult ages, dedicated to authentic choral singing. Balancing the season, PFC traditionally presents a major choral work each spring, the annual Messiah Sing, and summer concerts with pops-style programming.

When: Saturday, December 6, 2014 at 7:30 pm, and Sunday, December 7, 2014 at 4 pm

Where: The Church of the Pilgrimage (COTP), 8 Town Square, Plymouth, MA

Tickets are $20.00 for adults, $18.00 for senior citizens and $15.00 for students over 14. Children under the age of 14 are admitted free. Advance tickets may be purchased online at www.pilgrimfestivalchorus.org; and from PFC members. To reserve tickets by phone, please call Gail at (781) 826-8416. Complimentary refreshments will be served in the church hall immediately following the performance.