Coshocton Community Choir to share Christmas concert

The 90-voice Coshocton Community Choir, including auditioned singers from 11 Ohio counties, will share its Christmas concert, “In Endless Light,” at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8, at River View High School. The concert, including the Coshocton Youth Chorale, The Coshocton Singers, The Roscoe Brass and additional instrumentalists, will feature a selection of sacred choral music, including arrangements and settings of familiar hymns, classical and popular works, spirituals and more.

The choir’s Christmas concert returns to River View High School, 26496 OH-60, Warsaw, OH 43844, again this year, and admission is free. Although tickets will not be required, a free-will offering will be accepted to help meet the expenses involved in preparing for concerts and carrying out the non-profit organization’s mission.

“I chose ‘In Endless Light’ as this year’s concert theme,” said Charles R. Snyder, the Choir’s founder and director. “Light is part of Christmas! Light and candles are expected at Christmas worship and parties, lights in windows, and they bring us joy in homes and public places. Every day I count lighted windows I pass, and admire lit candles as I head home for the day. I am happy when I still see sparkling lights, even after New Year.”

Now in its 54th season, the Coshocton Community Choir was organized in 1971 by Snyder, an accomplished Ohio teacher, choral conductor, and church musician. Since its founding, more than 900 singers have sung with the choir, which has become known for its renditions of sacred a cappella literature. The singers come from all backgrounds, vocations and walks of life. The choir rehearses together weekly through the fall and winter and traditionally performs a narrated Christmas and a spring concert with a variety of musical accompanists.

At this year’s concert, the choir will invite the audience to join in singing “Silent Night,” “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing,” “Angels We Have Heard on High,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” and “Joy to the World!” A few favorite community choir songs include: a setting of “O Holy Night,” Garry Cornell’s “Lamb of the Light,” and “Go Tell It On the Mountain.” The community choir will surround the audience for the traditional Christmas concert blessing, “Stay With Us.”

“At this time of year, when the darkness comes more quickly each evening, I hope this concert will be a light for the singers and audience — something to keep people fueled, patient, and loving in this busy time of year,” Snyder said.

The choir is returning to River View again this Christmas, following overwhelmingly positive feedback about last year’s concert, particularly regarding accessibility and acoustics. While the choir intends to return to Coshocton High School for the spring concert, a final decision will be made after the new year.

“There’s a feeling of joy to see parents, grandparents, choir alumni, and friends from over the years,” Snyder said of the concerts. “I think you will appreciate our concert at River View High School. No climbing steps — in the parking lot or inside. The acoustic of the River View auditorium is ‘live’ — and should allow everyone to hear. Singing carols with the choirs and The Roscoe Brass and timpani will be thrilling.”

Category: Arts & Entertainment, Community Columns, Public Record, Sheriff's Report