Winter Choirfest hopes to set tone for semester

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    By SUZANNE BONNER

    The BYU Men’s Chorus will entertain the audience at Winter Choirfest with a number of pieces such as “Whistle, Maggie, Whistle,” an American folk song arranged by David Stocker, and “Ave Maria,” composed by Franz Biebl.

    This year’s Winter Choirfest will include Men’s Chorus, Women’s Chorus, Concert Choir and BYU Singers.

    “‘Winter Choirfest’ previews what our concerts hold for the remainder of the semester,” said Mack Wilberg, director of both Men’s Chorus and Concert Choir.

    Because this semester is his last semester directing the two choirs, Wilberg has carefully selected the pieces that will be performed.

    “I’ve purposely programmed favorites of mine from throughout the years,” Wilberg said.

    Women’s Chorus, conducted by Cherilyn Worthen, will be featuring pieces such as “Salmo 150,” written by Ernami Aguiar, and “I’ll Give My Love an Apple,” a Canadian folksong arranged by Imant Raminsh.

    “The harmony of all the choirs singing together makes beautiful music,” said Women’s Chorus member Angie Christenson, 18, a freshman from Waco, Texas, majoring in music.

    Women’s Chorus will be opening with two 20th century Latin pieces to add a contrasting flavor to the concert, Worthen said.

    “I’m just excited — (Winter Choirfest) is a great way to kick off the semester so you can see what BYU choirs are really all about,” Worthen said.

    The 42 members of BYU Singers will be singing a set of music titled “Music of the Night,” which includes pieces such as “Water Night,” written by Eric Whitacre. “Psalm 1: Blessed Is the Man,” written by Kenneth L. Hicken, will also be performed.

    “I’m looking forward to this concert because these pieces are so colorful. Anyone who can appreciate music should come to this concert,” said Ron Staheli, director of BYU Singers.

    Members of the audience will be able to enjoy BYU’s Concert Choir perform pieces such as “Make Our Garden Grow” from “Candide.”

    Jon Black, 18, a freshman from Desmoines, Iowa, is a member of Concert Choir.

    “‘Winter Choirfest’ is a celebration of the art of music,” Black said.

    The concert is Jan. 28 at 7:30 p.m. in the de Jong Concert Hall of the HFAC. Tickets may be purchased in the HFAC Ticket Office for $8 ($3 off with BYU or student ID).

    “This concert always features a great variety of music — there’s sure to be something in it for everyone,” Wilberg said.

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