The Community Chorus program, postponed because of snow, was well worth waiting for!

We started with TubaChristmas the first of December and enjoyed Christmas right on through The Twelfth Night therof! The new date was arrived at by very involved rescheduling of the many people involved to bring them all back together again!

I have appreciated Dr. Lyle’s performances (and those of her voice students!) in the Lenten Bach’s Lunch series at Holy Cross. Dr. Susan Lyle is a seasoned musician equally at home leading a chorus, playing the piano or helping a student turn talent into ability.

“Christmas Around the World” narrator Ed Harrelson lent his rich baritone voice to a measured reading of his script. Like Alex Trebek, he seems to be comfortable with all languages!

Oboist Jane Patterson was heard but not seen (at least by me), during the program. At first, I thought I was hearing an English horn, and told her so. She was pleased by that, and said it was her favorite instrument.

Accompanist Pam McNeil showed us once more that she can support all performers in all styles of music. I especially enjoyed her playing for the Messiah portion song — the way she “leaned on” the bass notes to let that big Steinway put a solid foundation under the music. I am more than pleased to have Pam here among us!

The so-called “Cathedral Brass” sat in front of the curtain before concert time and got us back into the Christmas spirit by playing several carols for us. They reappeared after Messiah to play often during the “Christmas Around the World” portion of the program.

There were many fine solo voices, as well as an ensemble, pulled from the chorus as required. Trombonist Hank Sibley moved freely among all the ensembles, also as required.

Please pardon the time-worn cliché, but obviously, “A good time was had by all.”

Garland Goodwin,

Tryon