The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

The Sisters Community Chorus directed by Forrest Daniel will perform the "Gloria" by Antonio Vivaldi along with a selection of other traditional and contemporary holiday music during two Christmas concerts.

The concerts will be held at the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration in Sisters.

The concerts will be held on Sunday, December 6, at 2 p.m. and again on Wednesday, December 9, at 7:30 p.m. at 68825 Brooks Camp Road.

Vivaldi, known during his time as the "Red Priest" due to his flaming red hair, was a prolific composer writing 44 operas, 28 cantatas, 14 vespers and many other secular and church pieces.

He traveled extensively and was known for his violin virtuosity. Vivaldi was afflicted with asthma and was sick from birth but no trace of anguish can be found in his music.

His distinctive style was considered eccentric and his music is more popular now than during his lifetime.

The "Gloria" was composed during the baroque period for the choir of the girl's orphanage in Venice where Vivaldi was music master. The text is the hymn sung by the angels to announce Christ's birth.

This melodic, joyful piece consists of 12 movements, including alto and soprano solos and a soprano duet.

The solos are operatic and difficult.

In addition to the "Gloria" the group will perform "Ave Maria," "Sweet was the Song," based on an old carol, and the Wexford Carol arranged by Linda Spevecek.

Daniel became interested in this carol during a six-month stay in Ireland.

The chorus is composed of 30 Sisters area residents who range in age from 11 to 75.

Tickets are free but required. They are available from the Sisters COCC Center.

For more information call 549-7331.