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1:30 p.m., Dec. 17, 2002-- Only 200 copies remain of “Delaware in December,” a holiday music CD produced by the University of Delaware Chorale, the most select student choir at UD.
The 60-member group produced the CD in September, recording for two nights in historic Grace United Methodist Church in Wilmington. It is being sold for $15 as a fundraiser for the group’s performing tour of Europe scheduled for next summer.
“It seems few can resist the enticing warmth and beauty of music during the holidays,” the CD’s liner notes explain. “In approaching this project, we sought to draw upon several traditions of the season, in the hopes that the listener might stop and reflect on even the most familiar of carols in a fresh new way.”
Director Paul Head said this is the group’s second CD and that it was recorded after just five rehearsals. It includes a collection of carols the group has sung over the years in its popular performances in the community and at Longwood Gardens.
Renditions of Pamela Berlin’s tender setting of “Silent Night,” Stephen Paulus’ joyful arrangement of “Din, Dong, Merrily” and two settings of traditional carols by Dutch composer Jetse Bremer, are representative of both the Choral’s stylistic flexibility and musical sensitivity. “Hatikva” and “I Sing of the Wonders” form the centerpiece of a celebration of the Jewish faith, and the pairing of Britten’s “A Boy Was Born” with Randall Thompson’s beloved “Alleluia” contrasts with two works of a poetic wintry nature: John Rutter’s “Blow, Blow Thou Winter Wind” and Frank Ahrold’s “The Bells.”
The UD Chorale has a long and distinguished history. Members are chosen by audition from all colleges at the University.
The choir has performed with distinction along the East Coast and in Europe. Having previously traveled to Finland and the Czech Republic, the choir is now preparing for a tour of Scotland, the Netherlands, France, Germany and Austria, performing in historic locations.
Head, who also conducts Schola Cantorum, the Men's Chorus and the Women's Chorus, holds a bachelor of arts degrees from San Jose State University, a master’s degree from Westminster Choir College of Rider University and a doctorate from the University of Oklahoma.
Copies of “Delaware in December” can be purchased in person in the main office of the Department of Music in the Amy E. du Pont Music Building, or checks payable to the University of Delaware can be sent to the office via campus mail. Copies also can be ordered via e-mail by contacting Head at [pdhead@udel.edu], or by calling (302) 831-3397 or (302) 831-2577.
Article by Beth Thomas
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