Candlelight Concert Captures Holiday Magic
A symphony of voices rises from within the towering arches of the magnificent St. Bernard’s Church in Akron, Ohio, as Summit Choral Society (SCS) performs a triumphant celebration of the holiday season to an audience filled with delight.
The 33rd annual Candlelight Christmas Concert Series returns to entertain and inspire its audience, featuring four different choirs with voices of all ages, soloists, and a chamber orchestra. Handel’s Messiah and the beautiful Karl Jenkins’ “Benedictus” will thrill audiences along with traditional favorites such as “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing”.
SCS’s Metropolitan Chorus, under the direction of Featured Conductor Dr. Britt Cooper, and the national award-winning Performance Choir, under the direction of SCS’s Principal Conductor Heather Cooper, sing all three shows.
The Advanced Choir, under the direction of Emily Garlcok, has a featured performance on December 16 and 17 at 7 pm, and Bel Canto, under the direction of Jessica Bell and the youngest of the children’s choirs, will sing on December 18 at 4 pm. Each choral ensemble sings its own repertoire, making each night a unique experience for the audience.
The concerts conclude with a combined performance where singers of all ages hold candles while singing, providing a breathtaking aesthetic. The symphony of voices, instrumental accompaniment, candles and gorgeous venue at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church truly capture the magic of the holiday season.
“I remember the Metropolitan Chorus standing along the side aisles of St. Bernard’s singing ‘O Come, Emmanuel.’ The acoustic effect provided by their voices, the historic church design, and the ambiance of the handheld candles were a beautiful treat for my eyes and ears. Wonderfully done,” said Gary and Frances Jervis, long-time patrons.
SCS is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, emphasizing music education and a love for the choral arts. Beginning at birth and continuing through adulthood, SCS instructs its participants in many facets of music. The Candlelight Christmas Concert series may be the year’s highlight, but SCS works all year to produce and perform high-quality events for the Akron community and beyond.
Summit Choral Society is a jewel in the Akron landscape, enriching the community through an appreciation for the arts with music. Funding comes from grants, foundations, corporate donors, patrons, and everyday people who share a passion for making the world a little brighter, one voice at a time.
Tickets for the event can be purchased in-house or online. For more information about Summit Choral Society or the Christmas Candlelight Concert series, please visit www.summitchoralsociety.org.
Summit Choral Society Candlelight Christmas Concert
