by Bonnie H. Chuen
Staff Writer
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.
Journalism operations manager at the University of La Verne. Production manager and business manager of the Campus Times.