First United Methodist Church of Orlando is pleased to present Night of Wonders: A Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. on Sunday, December 15. The concert, directed and produced by the church’s new director of music and worship arts, Tony Chunn, features the Chancel Choir and professional orchestra.
The program begins in darkness with “Lost in the Night,” a Finnish folk tune. The song’s haunting string accompaniment and poetic text symbolize a world eagerly awaiting the birth of a Savior. The program builds on the mystery and wonder of the season, culminating in a joyous celebration of angels rejoicing with John Rutter’s Gloria and Handel’s “For Unto Us a Child Is Born.”
Other works in the concert include Eric Whitaker’s “Lux Arumque” and two of Barlow Bradford’s famous pieces: “Sussex Carol” and “Carol of the Bells.” The Chancel Choir, along with the children’s choirs, will also perform traditional carols and other seasonal favorites in this enchanting musical experience.
The concert will also feature guest soloist John Torres, California vocalist, songwriter and recording artist who recently released his fourth album. He will be performing traditional favorite “O Holy Night” and contemporary classic “His Love Is All I See.” Torres has performed on stages throughout the country, including Dodger Stadium, the Qwest Center and Disney Concert Hall, as well as the Jimmy Kimmel stage at the Hollywood Feast of San Gennaro in Los Angeles. Torres won a Finalist award for his song, “Hallelujah!” in the 2013 John Lennon Songwriting Contest.
The concert at 142 E. Jackson Street, Orlando, is free and open to the public. For more information about the Christmas concert, contact Chunn at [email protected] or in the church office weekdays at 407-849-6080.
