Student vocalists were showcased along with singers of all ages on Sunday, Dec. 5th. The Southeastern University Chorus, along with the Northshore Chorale, held a Christmas-themed concert at the First Baptist Church of Hammond. The concert was led by conductor Dr. Alissa Mercurio Rowe, voice instructor at Southeastern.

The combined choirs started the concert off with a traditional opening by performing “Carol of the Bells.” This well-known Christmas carol served as a way to get the audience in the Christmas spirit. Following the opening was an arrangement entitled “Ceremony of Carols.” This arrangement was composed by composer Benjamin Britten and composed of mostly 15th and 16th century carols.

The arrangement consisted of multiple songs that were accompanied with a harp played by Northshore Chorale member Cathy Anderson and select solos and duets throughout. Southeastern chorus members Kayla Louis, Kelly Todd, Kimberly Dupre and Karista Filopoulos were the performers of the solos throughout the piece.

During the intermission, a group of string instruments were set up to accompany the choir in the second half of the concert.

They provided a smooth and beautiful sound to go along with the voices of the choir. The second arrangement performed was entitled “Christmas Oratorio.” Camille Saint-Saens originally composed the selection in 1858.

Solos, duets and other ensembles were performed throughout this arrangement as well. Performers of these ensembles included students Damian Faul, Joshua Williams and Christopher Giffin.

They provided great voices to go along with the string section and choir in this arrangement. The choir finished strong and got a standing ovation when the piece was complete.

The attendance for the event was high, as the church was completely filled with friends and family members of the chorus members.

Karen, John and Robbye Bell have attended the event for over five years. The family has had multiple family members in both the Northshore Chorale and the University Chorus.

“We have attended the performance for years and are always pleased,” said Karen Bell.

For future Southeastern University Chorus events or Northshore Chorale information, contact Rowe at 549-2334 or [email protected].