Festive Melodies Await Aiken Residents at the Annual Christmas Concert
As the holiday season approaches, Aiken is all set to embrace the festive spirit with the highly anticipated annual holiday concert titled Christmas Around the World. This enchanting musical journey will take place on Sunday, December 15, at 4 p.m. at the beautiful St. John’s Methodist Church.
A Celebration Following the Hoofbeats Parade
What makes this year’s concert extra special is that it will occur immediately after the Aiken Hoofbeats Christmas Parade. After the parade wraps up, attendees can easily stroll over just a couple of blocks to enjoy an afternoon filled with melodious tunes that celebrate Christmas traditions from around the globe. Artistic director Dr. Maureen Simpson shared her excitement, saying, “We are hopeful people will want to continue to celebrate Christmas through music immediately after Aiken’s wonderful tradition of the parade.”
Talented Musicians at the Forefront
The Aiken Choral Society is brimming with local talent, bringing together a diverse group of performers, including former opera singers, cruise ship entertainers, and music majors. “We are very fortunate to have so many local talented musicians,” Dr. Simpson remarked, highlighting the impressive roster of voices and instruments featured in the concert.
This year, music lovers can look forward to stirring performances by Cynthia Hill, Jordan Pixley, and Bernice DeLoach, who will come together as a trio to share their musical artistry. Adding to the ensemble will be violinist Jill Winch, a newcomer to Aiken known for her rich musical history. From joining the Youth Orchestra of Greater Chicago at just 10 years old to performing alongside legends like Smokey Robinson and Wayne Newton, Winch brings a wealth of experience and excitement to the stage. One of her claims to fame includes playing for the soundtrack of Disney’s 101 Dalmatians, where she brilliantly multiplied her talents as a one-woman violin section.
Young Talent Shines Bright
Keeping the spirit of music education alive, the concert will feature Thomas Rittgers, a talented 12-year-old pianist who will dazzle the audience with a delightful Christmas medley. Dr. Simpson expressed her excitement for Thomas’s return after his previous performance left audiences thrilled, “Thomas loves to challenge himself, and his creativity is something you won’t want to miss!”
Long-time Members Continue to Shine
Meanwhile, the concert will also celebrate the longstanding contributions of two members who have been with the Aiken Choral Society since its inception: Joe Brewer and Gretchen Schaffner. As they approach the Society’s milestone of 51 years, they reflect on their journeys. Schaffner stated, “I have stayed all these years because I love to sing, and it’s been a great group of people throughout the years.” Brewer added, “I learn something new every season, and that keeps it exciting for me.”
A Gift for the Community
The concert, free to the public, not only showcases marvelous performances but also brings opportunities for family fun. Children attending will have a chance to meet Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, adding a delightful twist to the afternoon. Unique raffle items will also be available, enhancing the joyous atmosphere.
For those interested, donations will be welcomed, supporting the choir’s mission and ongoing musical initiatives within the community. To learn more, visit www.aikenchoralsociety.org.
Get ready to unwrap the magic of music this holiday season in Aiken! Mark your calendars for December 15, and prepare to be transported through Christmas tunes from around the world!
