By Ellie Vandegriff | Echo
On Saturday the sounds of the Taylor Chorale, Sounds, Wind Ensemble and Ringers will resonate within the walls of Rediger Chapel. Through an international lens the birth of Christ will be sung, performed and spoken, bringing a unique worldly perspective to the frozen cornfields of Upland, Ind. The annual Sing Noel concert incorporates Chorale members' cultures for its theme of Christmas in all nations. Through songs and Scripture readings, students will recite and perform in 11 worldwide languages.
"For all the verses that are going to be read in different languages, and the songs that we've chosen, we have somebody in the Chorale that represents that language," said senior Chorale officer Haley Kurr.
In the early days of "Sing Noel," the Taylor Chorale and Sounds performed traditional Christmas songs. Over the years, the concert grew into a more international experience.
"It seemed like we were leaving out a big portion of our student population by just focusing on Christmas carols sung in English," said Chorale and Sounds director JoAnn Rediger.
Chorale and Sounds are joined by the Wind Ensemble and Ringers. The concert will follow chronologically follow the story of Christ's birth.
"It starts with the prophecy in Isaiah and the fulfillment of the prophecy, then the birth of the baby Jesus and the shepherds coming and the kings coming, and the music fits this interwoven story," Kurr said.
Keeping the details vague to avoid spoiling the surprise, Chorale chaplain and junior Alex Moore explained that the concert's themes interconnect.
"The concert begins with a feel of drawing in, wondering what the mystery of Christ's birth is, and ends in outward celebration," Moore said.
Because the concert takes place after the Christmas banquet, the prelude will begin half an hour early to encourage people to get seats before the concert begins.
The performance takes place Saturday at 7:30 p.m. in Rediger Chapel.
