December 15: A Night to Remember in Newport
This Friday, December 15, the United Church of Newport, located at 63 Third Street, is gearing up to host an unforgettable evening with the Brass Quintet & Counterpoint, featuring special guests from the Lake Region Union High School chorus. The concert, set to begin at 7:30 pm, promises an exceptional blend of music and holiday cheer. For those eager to be part of this musical journey, tickets are available at vso.org/events.
2023 Holiday Tour: Spreading Cheer Across Vermont
The year 2023 marks the continuation of a cherished annual tradition as the VSO Brass Quintet and Counterpoint ensemble take their holiday offerings on tour. With stops in Warren, Newport, Grafton, and Manchester, each concert is a unique celebration of the season, perfectly harmonizing brass instruments with choral voices.
Premieres and Seasonal Favorites
Highlighting the program are two premieres. “The Christmas Truce” by Carol Wood, a respected composer from Saxtons River, is a choral piece inspired by the WW1 Christmas ceasefires, bringing a poignant historical moment to life. Additionally, the audience will be treated to a brass composition by Leela McCann, a talented student from the U-32 School District involved in the Music Composition Mentoring Program (Music-COMP).
But that’s not all. The concert also features an array of enchanting traditional carols and timeless arrangements by Robert De Cormier, the founder of Counterpoint and the VSO Chorus. From the classical compositions of Bach, Gabrieli, and Farnaby to fun holiday tunes like “Frosty the Snowman” and “Santa Baby,” there’s something for everyone.
Meet the Artists
The VSO Brass Quintet comprises talented musicians including Shelagh Abate on horn, trumpeters Seelan Manickam and Ryan Noe, Matthew Wright on trombone, and Philip Hyman playing the tuba.
Counterpoint, known for their captivating vocal performances, features Colleen Flynn Campbell, Neil Cerutti, Melissa Chesnut-Tangerman, Brian Clancy, Scott Czerwinski, Carolyn Dickinson, Anne D’Olivo, Maria Weber Lamson, Zebulun McLellan, Kevin Quigley, Linda Radtke, Allison Devery Steinmetz, and Cameron Steinmetz.
A Special Collaboration in Newport
The Newport concert is particularly special as it includes the participation of chorus members from the Lake Region Union School District, adding an extra layer of community spirit to the event. This collaboration under the baton of conductor Nathaniel G. Lew is a testament to the unifying power of music.
Don’t Miss This Holiday Spectacle
This concert is more than just a musical event; it’s a celebration of community, history, and the joyous spirit of the holiday season. Whether you’re a classical music aficionado or just looking for a delightful way to get into the holiday spirit, this concert is sure to be a memorable experience. Join us in Newport for a night filled with melody, harmony, and holiday magic!