Union Church Choir performs at Carnegie Hall!

On November 26, 2018 the Union Church Chancel Choir joined composer/conductor Mark Hayes to perform a world premiere of a new choral work, “Hodie Christus Natus Est, A Carol Fantastia.” Union Church members joined an elite group of 9 other choruses from around the United States forming a choir of 275 singers, and an orchestra of more than 50. More than 2100 attended the performance!

The concert, titled “A Winter Rose” also featured a second, previously published work by Mark Hayes, “Gloria” in 3 movements. The second half of the concert featured a second (different) chorus who performed “The Winter Rose,” a Christmas Cantata of familiar carols arranged and conducted by Joseph M. Martin.

Our choir was recruited thanks to YouTube footage of Sunday morning musical offerings, some which included works by Mr. Hayes. Usually choirs must apply and audition before being accepted, so this was a great honor to be hand selected.

The 22 singers and director, Bernardo Scarambone traveled to NYC the day after Thanksgiving. Saturday and Sunday each included 4 and 5 hour rehearsals with the composer. Monday afternoon they had their first experience with Carnegie hall for a sound check and rehearsal with the orchestra, entering the same rehearsal halls and singing from the same stage as such artists as Itzhak Perelman, the Kronos Quartet, Billie Holiday, and the list goes on.

When asked how it was to sing on that august stage, Union Church choir member Robert Rorrer remarked, “It was just like singing at Union Church! Only a little bigger, but the sound was just as good!” Another member, Susie Ritchie, became the 5th member of her family to sing at Carnegie Hall, joining her aunts Jean and and Edna Ritchie, and Jean’s two sons, Jon and Peter Pickow.

Though some regular members of the choir were unable to make the the trip, they were always with the group in spirit, and certainly helped prepare and support the group that traveled. “If we could not sing with them,” Pastor Kent said, “we at least tried to sing FOR them, and make them proud.” Thanks to them for their prayers and support through rehearsals and inconveniences that made the trip possible.

Finally, the choir was especially glad to see former director, Gabe Evans, who was able to meet the choir and attend the performance and celebration gala after the concert. Gabe recently accepted full-time employment with Distinguished Concerts International, the production company for this event.

The full Union Church Chancel Choir will offer selections of their Carnegie Hall performance as music for upcoming worship services! Stay tuned!

Director Bernardo Scarambone and Chancel Choir with composer Mark Hayes.

Jan Hamilton, Jane Mecham, Patti Smithson, Betty Hibler, Susie Ritchie, Gabe Evans, and Triss Holland. (and a trapped unnamed Alto from Massachusetts).