The crisp cool breeze, the rainy days and the start of twinkling lights – Christmas is nearly upon us, and the Sunshine Coast Community Orchestra Association is gathering for its annual Christmas concert on Sunday, Dec. 13.
Each year, the SCCOA brings its audience some wonder-filled, timeless favourites, as well as presenting some new twists and new music from its four ensembles. This year, listeners will be treated to toe-tapping, heart-warming renditions of such favourites as O Holy Night, Winter Wonderland and The 12 Days of Christmas. They will also get to enjoy classical offerings from Berlioz, Vivaldi, and the opera, and will be introduced to 20th century music by Canadian composers John Frederickson and Michael Conway Baker.
There is exciting news from their podium to be shared as well. In a world dominated by male conductors, the SCCOA proudly celebrates having four fabulous female conductors. Christmas Past and Present marks the debut of Sarah Tippett-Poon as the conductor of the newly named Coast Chamber Strings. Sarah joins the artistic team of Janice Brunsen (Suncoast Concert Band), Kathleen Hovey (Junior String Ensemble) and Edette Gagné (Coast Symphony Orchestra). Each of these fine musicians brings a world of experience to their craft as conductors, which complements the incredibly talented instrumentalists living on the Sunshine Coast.
Of course, no SCCOA Christmas concert would be complete without opportunities to sing carols with MC Alec Tebbutt and Gagné, perchance sing along with one of the ensembles, and enjoy a massed performance of Leroy Anderson’s timeless Sleigh Ride to end the show. There will be something for everyone at this sure to be sold out concert, so purchase your tickets in advance from any member of the SCCOA or from Laedeli in Sunnycrest Mall and Strait Music in Sechelt.
Christmas Past and Present takes place Sunday, Dec. 13 at 2:30 p.m. at the Sechelt Indian Band Hall. Children 12 and under are free and must be accompanied by an adult.
