Medina A’Cappella Choir gears up for holiday tradition

Provided photo – Medina Choral Director Lisa Roeseler practices with the A’Cappella Choir.

Press Release
Medina Central School

MEDINA – The Medina High School A’Cappella Choir, under the direction of Lisa Roeseler, has been diligently practicing for one of their biggest concerts of the year.

The annual Christmas concert for the community will be 7 p.m. Dec. 13 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on the corner of West Avenue and Eagle Street.

“It is an amazing event that attracts people from all over WNY,” says Mrs. Roeseler.

The tradition began decades ago with the former Choir Director Robert Connor.

“I remember attending in 1975, when my brother was in the choir, at the Presbyterian Church in Medina,” says Mrs. Roeseler. “It was amazing and such a wonderful thing to do for the community. When I became the choral director in 1986, I knew it was a tradition that I wanted to continue. It has become a beloved event in our community. It became so popular, that we eventually outgrew the Presbyterian Church and moved the performance to St. Mary’s.”

Every concert has been something special, but a highlight was when Mr. Connor returned to Medina to see the concert last December.

“It meant so much to me, the choir and the community,” Roeseler said. “Everyone gave him a standing ovation. Unfortunately, Mr. Connor passed away soon after that concert. A scholarship has been established to honor his memory and what he has brought musically to Medina. Since we do not charge admission for the concert, we are asking for a goodwill offering to support the Robert Connor Memorial Scholarship Fund at Medina High School. We would love to assist a student to continue to pursue a college education, while honoring a man who has done so much for Medina.”

The concert will be an hour-long and contain many sacred and secular pieces by the acclaimed choir. Mrs. Roeseler does recommend that anyone attending arrives at the church early to secure a seat.

“We always have great support from the community and it is going to be a fantastic concert,” she said. “The students have really put their hearts into it. I am sure it will put everyone in the holiday spirit.”