Christmas concert graces community
Campus Times
December 6, 1996
The Music Department is putting on the first Christmas concert ever
at the University of La Verne, titled "A Christmas Concert."
"This is one of the first Christmas-type concerts," said Bruce
A. Hirsch, chair of the Music Department.
The concert will take place Dec. 7, in Founders Auditorium, featuring
the Chamber Singers, La Verne Community Chamber Ensemble, Recorder Ensemble
and individual student directors.
The music selected for the concert includes various styles spanning
through many eras, from medieval to contemporary.
"What we're trying to do is represent many different styles of
expression, ranging from the old medieval chant styles to the modern contemporary
season style," said Hirsch.
According to Hirsch, the concert will take you from chants, to the Baroque
style, to classical, to romantic and contemporary styles.
Student directors senior Javier Harvin, junior Ryan Harrison, and seniors
Ray Garza and Mario Lopez will make their directorial debuts.
"This is their first experience. Its an exciting adventure for
them to get up in the front of an ensemble," said Hirsch.
"It's like fulfilling a dream, but being really nervous about it.
I'm looking forward to it," said Harrison.
According to Hirsch, the reason this concert has never taken place at
ULV before is because the choir is usually preparing to tour during January.
"We decided to do a tour for the campus community," said Hirsch.
The Chamber Singers are unique because "this chamber choir is made
up of students, staff members, alumni and members from the community,"
said Hirsch.
Hirsch believes that allowing various types of performers on stage with
the students creates an educational element that is valuable.
"It's a mixture, and it's a very valuable educational experience,"
said Hirsch.
According to Hirsch, this situation allows students to work with professionals
side by side.
"There's an equalization factor here," said Hirsch.
The group began planning for the concert in September, however, only
two rehearsals have taken place thus far with the community members and
the students.
Hirsch believes the students will gain a lot of experience and growth
from this concert.
"It's always a thrill for me to see our students perform and to
experience the performance factor with the students," said Hirsch.