The Oratorio Choir and Orchestra of the Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church, conducted by Mary Lou Stevens, will present John Rutter’s Magnificat and other seasonal carols on Sunday, December 7, 2014, at 4 and 6:30 pm.  The Knox Bell Choir conducted by Linda Langstaff will also play several selections on the church’s newly refurbished White Chapel Handbells.

Rutter’s Magnificat was first performed in 1990 at Carnegie Hall, conducted by the composer.  This work of seven movements is based on Mary’s canticle in the Gospel of Luke.  In addition to this text, Rutter has added a 15th century English text about the Virgin, “Of a Rose, A Lovely Rose”, and the “Gloria Patri” traditionally sung at the end of Psalms and Canticles.

The music Rutter has composed for these texts contains the spirit of the Mediterranean where the feast days of Mary are days of celebration.  He uses Spanish dance rhythms and percussion to give the music its vitality.   Speaking about this music, Rutter has said, “Sing it with joy or not at all!”  The choir presents this music with joy as we begin this Christmas season.

Soloists in the Magnificat include sopranos Nancy Deutsch and Jeanne Poehner of Bernardsville, and Melinda Fritz Porter of Mendham.  Other carols will feature mezzo soloists Nancy Nelson DiSisto and Evelyn Drake.

The entire community is invited to attend these performances.  No ticket is needed.  A free-will offering will be taken.  Child care for pre-school children will be offered during the 4 pm performance.   Reservations for child care may be made by calling the church office at 908-766-1616. There will be a reception following the 6:30 performance hosted by the church’s Fellowship Council.

Click here to view a poster you can print to invite others.