Nothing warms the soul like holiday music — just a couple of notes and you’re brought back to crackling fireplaces and snowy days.
The Colorado Springs Soli Deo Gloria Choir will kick off the holiday season with a free concert at The Broadmoor. This celebratory show will feature music honoring Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas.
“We’re really just taking people into the holidays and getting them excited by offering all of those pieces of music,” said Nathaniel Voelker, the choir’s executive director.
The Soli Deo Gloria Choir is a nonauditioned community chorus composed of about 120 co-ed singers, from high school students to retirees. The choir has been preparing for the concert since the start of September, when its new season begins.
The one-hour performance will start with a joyous solo by Voelker, singing “We’re Gonna Shine Our Light!” by Vicki Tucker Courtney. There will also be a duet of Andy Beck’s “Carry the Light” performed by mezzo-soprano Deb Williams and baritone Larry Stair. The show will feature guest instrumentalists, including violinist Katherine Hodgson, cellist Rob Hoexter and percussionist Ethan McGraw.
Throughout the season, the choir will also have groups of singers performing Christmas carols every Saturday in downtown through Christmas.
“It’s something we’re doing just as a way to participate with the community,” Voelker said. “I love the way this music brings communities together. I love the way that it reminds us that there is more that connects us than divides us, and this is something that we all need a reminder of in the world that we live today.”
While the holiday concert is free, admission is ticketed and must be reserved in advance. Audience donations are encouraged, and paid parking will be available at The Broadmoor with proceeds benefiting the Empty Stocking Fund.
“I hope that the audience leaves this concert with a sense of expectant hope,” Voelker said. “The vision of Soli Deo Gloria Choir is to broaden and deepen connection within our community — and beyond.”
