By Annette Ieda
Forty singers from the communities of Michias, Springville, Salamanca, Cattaraugus, Ellicottville, East Aurora, Great Valley, and Little Valley have been rehearsing since October 20th under the direction of Annette Ieda to present two free Christmas Concerts on Sunday, December 15th to share the story of Christ’s birth through some of the oldest Carols ever written. This year’s Cantata is called “A Blest Messiah Born” by Larry Shakley. Besides the adult choir, there will be a children’s choir singing “The Friendly Beasts.” Some of the songs are over 900-years old, and still being performed, such as “The Wexford Carol,” and “Lo How a Rose.” This is Mrs. Ieda’s 12th year to direct the group. She willingly became the conductor after Marsh Barlow became ill. “It is always the highlight of my Christmas Preparations to rehearse these fine musicians” she stated. “I feel it has bought spiritual growth to all of us just learning the words and singing together the songs that highlight the different events that lead to the birth of Jesus.” We just need an audience now so that we can share our music and the spirit of love that prevails throughout these beautiful songs. Mark your calendar for Dec. 15.
The afternoon concert will be at the Riverside Chapel in Salamanca at 3pm. The program and refreshments will conclude by 4pm and the musicians will travel to the Holy Name of Mary Church in Ellicottville to present a 7pm program followed again by refreshments in the church hall. Also featured at the HNM church will be a collection of 200 Creche Scenes donated by church members and artfully arranged in the church hall by the HNM Rosary Club. These can be viewed following the concert. Donations from both concerts will be gratefully accepted to pass on to the local food pantries of Salamanca and Ellicottville.