Waseca Chorale sharing the joy Nov. 30

The Waseca Chorale holiday concert titled “Joy! He Shall Reign” will be at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30 at Sacred Heart Church. Chorale members say they are excited to present their 90-minute performance and believe it will serve as an energetic transition from fall and harvest to the excitement and fulfillment of the holidays.

 

This will be holiday concert number 53 for the independent organization’s 54 singers, whose ages range from the late teens to the mid-eighties. Most are from the county's communities, but some come from Owatonna, Mankato and Faribault to be part of the group.

 

“We just like to sing,” comments Andy Miller, who, along with a few others, has been a member since the group first formed. “It feels really good to be part of something beautiful and uplifting.”

 

Director Deb Wantoch Yess mentions that she and fellow director John Hoehn spend a lot of time considering what music will be challenging and rewarding for the singers and will have the variety, energy, and meaning to touch the audience members’ hearts and leave them with something which adds to their holiday spirit.

 

She says she believes the seven individual numbers and the cantata featuring interwoven elements of eight numbers fit the bill. Interspersed throughout will be instrumental features, soloist, and “even eight bars of the Hallelujah Chorus.”

 

Chorale member Deb Vetter names “Love is the Reason Why” as one of her favorite numbers for the concert. “It’s got everything,” she observes. “It has a rich message, beautiful lyrics, and a great tune.

 

“I enjoy singing it because I believe people will find it meaningful.”

 

Director Hoehn names “Enniscorthy Carol” as a favorite. He comments that the song brings a “counterintuitive” melody while also featuring alto voices and a resonating instrumental solo. He refers to it as “deceptively difficult,” while also being “a gorgeous piece.”

 

Chorale members express gratitude to area organizations which have provided financial support, including the Waseca Area Foundation, Prairie Lakes Art Council and Waseca County. Al Judd, who was also a Chorale member when the organization formed, remembers a time when fundraisers were necessary to meet the costs of music, an accompanist, hall rentals, and more. “It was a lot of planning and interruption of our routines,” he remembers, “but it was a chance to work together and get to know each other better, too.”

 

He comments the Chorale has been a “true blessing” to him and other members, and so they are glad to pass that blessing along to new members, and to the community through their performances.

 

“We’re glad when lots of people come,” he observes. “It means we can share the joy.”

 

Admission cost to the Nov. 30 concert is $10 for adults, payable upon entry at Sacred Heart Church.