Blairstown hosts Xmas concert

Blairstown - The Water Gap Singers, under the direction of John Arnedt, will perform their 23rd annual Christmas Concert on Sunday, Dec. 3 at 4 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church of Blairstown at 1 Main Street. The singers are partially funded through a grant from the Warren County Cultural and Heritage Commission. This season’s concert will feature Giovanni de Palestrina’s O Magnum Mysterium and several sections of his Missa O Magnum, which is based on the motives found in his O Magnum Mysterium. Soloists for the Missa are Margie Miller, alto, James Mell, tenor, and David Fausak, bass. These selections will be accompanied by organist Kathleen Decker. Another feature will be the first performance in this area of The Blessed Bird, composed by director John Arnedt. The melody and text for this piece was found on the flyleaf of a 16th century prayer book and has been set by the composer to a tenderly haunting contemporary modal style. The Blessed Bird includes solo work by soprano Eileen Sudela. The remainder of the program will include many familiar carols, two of which will invite the audience to join in on the singing. Featured soloists for these selections include Marcia Savadge, soprano, Chris Kopec-Coppinger, alto and Tom Bias, tenor. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for senior citizens and $5 for students. They may be purchased at the door, from any chorus member of by calling 908-325-2450. Refreshments will be served after the concert for all who attend. For more information and/or directions to the church, call 908-362-6743.