Dec 2, 2011 2 min read

The Beesontown Singers, now in their seventh season of presenting choral music classics, will present their annual Christmas concert to the public at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday in the sanctuary of historic Asbury United Methodist Church, corner of S. Beeson Avenue and Dunbar Street, Uniontown.

The purpose and goal of the Beesontown Singers, according to a spokesman, is to “preserve the diversity of the choral arts for future generations.”

This season’s Christmas offerings will most certainly be diverse, ranging from traditional fare by time-tested composers such as G.B. Pergolesi and Clarence Dickinson to contemporary rising stars such as John Rutter and Douglas Wagner. The highlight promises to be the performance of Camille Saint-Saens’ “Oratorio de Noel, Op. 12” (a Christmas Oratorio), composed in 1858.

The oratorio was written for mixed chorus, soloists, harp, organ and strings. Numerous soloists are featured throughout the work. Guest tenor soloist, William Andrews will be joined by local soloists, baritone, Daniel Kovacic, sopranos, Karen Dreucci and Catherine Hayes, and altos, Sharon Brown, Linda Orsted, Shari Rogers, Linda Jukes and Lisa Nehls.

The French influence of Saint Saens’ oratorio provides for a delightful melding of harp and organ accompaniment. Guest harpist, Naomi Sloan, of Morgantown, W.Va. will provide the harp accompaniment, assisted by Jim Hutchinson at the organ. A string quartet from the West Virginia University Creative Arts, Division of Music, will round out the orchestra.

The Beesontown Singers will also sing to the accompaniment of handbells, as provided by the Asbury United Methodist handbell choir, under the direction of Helen Krichbaum. Piano accompanist will be Jenn Chmiel.

There is no admission charge. A freewill offering will be accepted.