Community concert this Sunday will shine light on season

Provided photo – The Genesee Chorale, led by Ric Jones, rehearses on Monday for their concert this Sunday in Albion at the First Presbyterian Church.

Press Release
Eastman at Albion

ALBION – The darkest day of the year approaches, and also the brightest one: Winter solstice is Dec. 21, with Christmas following four short days later.

Observing this juxtaposition, the Eastman at Albion Courthouse Square Series will host its annual holiday concert, “Light of Christmas,” at 3 p.m. on Sunday at the First Presbyterian Church, 29 E. State St.

This year’s event features the Batavia-based Genesee Chorale, conducted by Medina musician Ric Jones. Select vocal and instrumental ensembles from Albion High School, led by Mike Thaine and Gary Simboli, also will perform.

Concert organizer and Genesee Chorale member Maarit Vaga explains: “The pieces on the program explore differing aspects of light: ‘Light in Darkness,’ ‘Light of Hope,’ ‘Light of Heaven,’ ‘Light of Christmas,’ and ‘Light of God.'”

Among the selections are “Let There Be Light,” by Craig Courtney, “Lux Aurumque” by Eric Whitacre, “True Light” by Keith Hampton, and “Sure on this Shining Night” by Morten Lauridsen. Traditional songs and carols will round out the afternoon, which has become a popular tradition in the Albion community.

Vaga noted that some songs will encourage audience members to reflect, others to rejoice, and some to sing along. One number will be offered in remembrance of loved ones no longer with us for the holidays.

Several hundred people attend each year, and the planning committee keeps the admission price family-friendly in the spirit of the season. The event is sponsored by Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes. Proceeds benefit scholarships through the Albion High School Alumni Foundation.