close

Symphonic Band, Lamplighters team up for Christmas concert

By Hannah Morris 3 min read

The Waynesburg University Symphonic Band and Lamplighters Choir invite students, faculty, staff and the Waynesburg community to come and feel the power of music. 

“Music expresses something that cannot be expressed in words alone. The beauty and value of fine arts is invaluable to the students,” said Dr. Ronda DePriest, director of the music program and associate professor of instrumental music.

The concert will be held in Roberts Chapel on Dec. 12. Carols will be played by the various musical groups on campus in the foyer until the concert begins at 7:30 p.m.

The band and choir will perform a joint concert. 

“I like the group concerts because they are full and exciting,” said Jon St. Laurent, secretary and treasurer of the Lamplighters. “The simple harmonies the two groups create produce phenomenal songs.” 

The concert will be a mix of arrangements focusing on traditional Christmas carols. Songs include familiar tunes such as “O Holy Night,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and “Three Noels.”

According to DePriest, a few songs will be somewhat unfamiliar, but the listener will still be moved by the power of the music. 

“We are playing Russian Christmas and it’s my favorite song, but so challenging,” said Mandi Pascarella, freshman youth ministries major and band member. 

At the beginning of each semester, DePriest and Mrs. Melanie Catana plan the direction they want to take the groups. The songs are chosen so that the band and choir are stretched. 

The choir and band is made up of more than just students. Several community members and high school students are participating.

“We have several faithful community members who love playing. This concert I invited high school students to participate as well,” said DePriest. “High school students are able to expand their education and be a part of something bigger by playing with us.”

With extending the invitation of being able to play music to those outside of the university, this will be a unique experience for all those involved. The experience continues with the variety of different songs that will be performed. 

“I really enjoy music with lyrics like what the choir sings. With band it is a completely eye-opening experience because a band can make you feel a certain way just with the sound,” said Pascarella.

“Music is a powerful way to worship God and express yourself. It crosses the barrier of language. It crosses all barriers. Music is a universal language,” said St. Laurent. 

CUSTOMER LOGIN

If you have an account and are registered for online access, sign in with your email address and password below.

NEW CUSTOMERS/UNREGISTERED ACCOUNTS

Never been a subscriber and want to subscribe, click the Subscribe button below.

Starting at $4.79/week.

Subscribe Today