Sheepscot Chorus invites you to join us as we begin rehearsals for our Sunday, December 1 Boothbay Harbor holiday concert, featuring Ralph Vaughan Williams’s “The First Nowell,” performed with professional soloists and chamber orchestra. “I look forward to perform this heartwarming holiday piece for the community. We’re excited to get started!” says director Linda Blanchard.

“The First Nowell” is a collection of carols written to accompany a nativity play, and in addition to the title carol it includes carols such as “God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen,” “The Cherry Tree Carol,” ” The Sussex Carol,” and more. Vaughan Williams biographer Stephen Connock wrote about the appeal of the work: “Vaughan Williams’ Christmas music in its freshness and warmth speaks directly to the heart. It is music to be played and cherished on Christmas Eve, at home, near the fire, with children safe and all at heart’s-ease.”

Holiday pops favorites will round out the second half of the program. Co-director and accompanist Sean Fleming has a knack for bringing together top-notch musicians for our holiday pops orchestra, sure to set toes tapping!

Rehearsals are high-energy and challenging. “We work hard,” says Blanchard, “but we keep the rehearsals upbeat and fun.” Chorus members range from newly-minted singers to seasoned performers. We provide practice materials to use at home, so singers can come to rehearsal feeling prepared and ready to go!

The Chorus rehearses on Tuesday nights, starting with our first rehearsal on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 7:00 PM, at the Congregational church in Wiscasset, next to the Wiscasset District Court. For more information, please send a message to info@sheepscotvalleychorus.org, leave a message at 207-315-9740, or visit facebook.com/sheepscotchorus and sheepscotvalleychorus.org.