The Chowan Singers, Chamber Chorus, Jazz Band, Wind Ensemble, and Community Chorus will present the annual Christmas at Chowan concert Sunday, December 2, 2018, at 3:30 PM.

Christmas time is near. The hustle and bustle of the holidays is in full swing. Take a break from the chaos, and come inside from the cold to enjoy the musical celebration. The concert will open with the Wind Ensemble under the direction of Dr. Mary Hellmann, Chair of the Department of Music, performing an arrangement of the famous Christmas tune, “Carol of the Bells.” The Wind Ensemble will also present a suite from Tchaikovsky’s ballet “The Nutcracker” that will bring back Christmas memories for many.

The Jazz Band, directed by Dr. Christopher Cook, Assistant Professor of Music, will perform standard Christmas fare in a variety of jazz styles. The Vocal Chamber Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Thorburn, Director of Choral Activities and Associate Professor of Music, will perform a selection of classic holiday songs.

The second half of the program showcases the Christmas Cantata, “What Sweeter Music,” by Mark Hayes. This multi-movement continuous work for chorus, soloists, and instrumental ensemble is a most glorious celebration of the season. It includes traditional carols, original songs, and readings from the Christmas story. Chowan University President Kirk E. Peterson and first lady Rachel will narrate the cantata.

This year, the Music Department welcomed Dr. Deborah Kiszely-Papp to the faculty as the pianist for ensembles and Assistant Professor of Music. Kiszely-Papp performed extensively as a soloist and collaborative pianist with renowned musicians throughout the United States and Europe. Her talents will be displayed for all as she accompanies the groups. 

The Music Department, along with the Murfreesboro Rotary Club, is collecting Toys for Tots to provide Christmas gifts to children in Hertford County. Boxes will be placed in the entry of Turner Auditorium ready to receive gifts to be distributed to children in Hertford County. Attendees of this free concert are encouraged to bring an unwrapped toy for a child this Christmas.

Load up the kids or grandkids, grab a friend, loved-one or spouse, and enjoy this special Christmas concert on Sunday, December 2, at 3:30 PM in Turner Auditorium of the McDowell Columns Hall on the Chowan University campus. Doors open at 3:00 PM.

Chowan University offers three bachelor’s degrees in music: Bachelor of Arts in Music, Bachelor of Science in Music Education, and Bachelor of Arts in Music with a Music Industry Emphasis. More information about the Department of Music can be obtained by phone: (252) 398-6236, email: music@chowan.edu or Facebook: www.facebook.com/musicatchowan.