by Adrian Banks
As winter settles in, Carroll County comes alive with the joyful sounds of the season.
From the shimmering tones of handbells to the rich harmonies of choirs and orchestras, local musicians are ready to spread holiday cheer across churches, campuses, and community stages. These local music groups invite you to let the music of our community warm your heart this holiday season.
Carroll Singers
Founded in 2005, the Carroll Singers are an adult choral group led by director Julia Richard. All singers are welcome to join. Their winter concert, “Christmas Through the Ages,” is scheduled for Dec. 1 and 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Westminster High School, 1225 Washington Road in Westminster. The concert features Christmas songs from the eighth century through the 21st. Tickets range from $9 to $15. Learn more at CarrollSingers.com.
Children’s Chorus of Carroll County (CCCC)
The Children’s Chorus of Carroll County (CCCC), a nonprofit organization founded in 1986 by Idalea Rubin and Diane Jones, provides accessible, high-quality music education and choral experiences for children throughout central Maryland.
Their Winter Celebration Concert will take place on Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Eldersburg. The festive program will feature all ensembles and a special collaboration with the Opus Community Music School. Admission is free.
“At the Children’s Chorus of Carroll County, we believe music transforms lives,” says Artistic Director Jenna Daly. “Our concerts celebrate the passion, dedication and spirit of young voices united in harmony.” Learn more at CCCCNotes.com.
Encore Community Music Association
Celebrating its 30th year of local music, the Encore Community Music Association is intergenerational, with musicians ranging from elementary students to retired professionals, with several parent-child combinations. The Encore Community Music Association features a full orchestra, a community jazz band, a clarinet ensemble, and a saxophone ensemble.
This winter, performances in Westminster include the Encore Homeschool Academy Winter Concert on
Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. at Westminster Baptist Church (354 Crest Lane in Westminster), the Encore Community Program Winter Concert on Dec. 14 at 3 p.m. at Winters Mill High School (560 Gorsuch Road in Westminster), and the Encore Chamber Music Concert on Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. at Hope Chapel (75 Lamb Drive in Westminster). Visit EncoreMusic.us for more information.
Westminster Ringers
The Westminster Ringers, a nonprofit music ensemble founded in 1997, provides accomplished local musicians the opportunity to develop their skills in handbell ringing. Their “Celebrate Christmas” concerts will feature festive music that captures the spirit of the season. Catch them performing at the First Presbyterian Church of Westminster, 65 Washington Road, on Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. (tickets range from $5 to $15) and Carroll Lutheran Village, 300 St. Luke Circle in Westminster, on Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. (free to attend).
“Attending a Westminster Ringers concert is both an aural and visual treat,” says Larry Henning, the music director of Westminster Ringers. “Watch the music come alive through your eyes and ears.” Learn more at WestminsterRingers.org.
Westminster Symphony Orchestra
The Westminster Symphony Orchestra (WSO) includes McDaniel College students, Carroll Community College students, faculty from both institutions and local musicians. The orchestra performs two concerts each year — one in the winter at McDaniel College and one in the spring at Carroll Community College.
This season’s winter concert, “A Musical Call for Unity,” will be held on Dec. 6 at 3 p.m. on the main stage in McDaniel College’s Alumni Hall theater, 2 College Hill in Westmister. The chosen music aims to create an interesting blend of hip-hop, contemporary, holiday, and classical pieces, sure to satisfy listeners with varying tastes. Tickets are free.
“The Westminster Symphony Orchestra invites audiences to join us for a program that celebrates unity, diversity and the shared joy of music,” says WSO Music Director Linda Kirkpatrick. Follow the WSO at Facebook.com/WestminsterSO.
