Exciting Holiday Cheer in the City
Get ready, folks! It’s that wonderful time of the year again, and the city is buzzing with excitement as the Rivertree Singers plan their annual Christmas extravaganza, titled “A Rivertree Christmas”. This beloved holiday concert is set to delight both Christmas carol enthusiasts and choral aficionados alike! Mark your calendars for two special performances on December 16 at the White Oak Baptist Church and December 20 at the Peace Center’s Gunter Theatre.
Something for Everyone!
Warren Cook, the charming founder and artistic director of the Rivertree Singers, promises that this year’s program will have something to please every musical palate. “I like to say we have something for everyone,” Cook shared enthusiastically. The lineup includes choral masterpieces from renowned composers like William Mathias, John Rutter, William Walton, and Ola Gjeilo. But don’t worry if you’re more into the traditional aspects of the holiday; the concert will also feature familiar carols that will warm your heart!
Some of the classics you can expect to hear include “Angels We Have Heard on High” and festive favorites like “Jingle Bells” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”.
Vocal Magic and Youth Involvement
This talented group of about 40 members will be accompanied by a small instrumental ensemble, adding to the concert’s musical charm. There will also be some pieces performed entirely a cappella—you won’t want to miss those! And as a special treat, two youth choruses will join the lineup: The Blue Ridge High School Choir will take the stage at White Oak Baptist, while the Greenville Youth Chorale will perform at the Peace Center. These young singers will not only shine on their own but will also collaborate with the Rivertree Singers for a few numbers, creating a heartwarming sense of community.
Fostering Musical Talent
Cook is passionate about nurturing the love of music among young singers. “It’s part of our mission to reach out to arts programs in the schools to help foster that lifelong singing that we want everyone to enjoy,” he said. Cook has a wealth of experience, having retired in 2021 after an impressive 41 years as a professor and director of choral activities at a local university.
Sing Along to Holiday Classics
As the concert nears its end, audience members can join in on singalongs of “White Christmas” and “Away in a Manger”, creating a festive atmosphere that will surely leave everyone feeling merry and bright!
About the Rivertree Singers
Founded in 2010, the Rivertree Singers are no strangers to vocal excellence. This remarkable group consists mainly of alumni from 13 different collegiate choral programs, many of whom are now choral conductors in various public and private schools across the Upstate. They perform a full season of four concerts each year, showcasing their talent and love for music to the community.
In addition to their seasonal offerings, every summer, Cook directs the Rivertree Singers & Friends Choral Festival. Last June, he led a choir of 200 voices combined with an orchestra of 60 musicians in the Southeastern premiere of a new oratorio titled “Creation” by Greenville-based composer Dan Forrest. Looking ahead, next June, he is set to conduct a large chorus and orchestra for another exciting performance of Forrest’s “Jubilate Deo” on the university campus.
Get Your Tickets!
You won’t want to miss this festive celebration of song. Tickets for “A Rivertree Christmas” range from $15 to $30, so grab yours soon! Let’s ring in the season with music, joy, and a whole lot of holiday spirit!
