One of the thrills of being the guy who gets to stand in front of the Glen Ellyn-Wheaton Chorale is hearing a piece of music come to life. Weeks of rehearsal pay off as a piece that was once brand new becomes an old friend.
There is another moment of joy when we get together for the first time with our orchestral friends. This fine group of players raises everything to a new level. What was already a beautiful piece of music now shimmers with the added sounds of musicians—strings, percussion, organ—all of whom are highly skilled in what they do.
Let me share just one of those moments with you. My friend and colleague Howard Whitaker lends his saxophone artistry for two pieces in our upcoming Christmas concerts. One of those pieces is Dan Forrest's memorable setting of O Little Town of Bethlehem. I'm fairly certain that you've never heard this familiar carol set quite this way! Forrest's imaginative harmonies are brought to life by the Chorale, Mac Willaert's piano accompaniment, the strings, and Howard Whitaker with a very soulful soprano saxophone.
I hope you'll take a moment and listen to the Glen Ellyn-Wheaton Chorale, along with piano, strings, and saxophone, as we sing this wonderful music. Then, may I invite you to get your tickets now for Wintersong 2018? There's lots more where this came from!
Greg Wheatley, Music Director
Glen Ellyn-Wheaton Chorale