Mad River Chorale to begin virtual rehearsals for holiday program

September 19, 2020  |  By Lisa Scagliotti

The Mad River Chorale performs a Christmas concert in 2015 at the Waterbury Congregational Church. This year's holiday program will take place online. Courtesy photo.

Singers of the Mad River Chorale begin online rehearsals Monday, Sept. 28, for the fall/holiday program that will culminate in a virtual concert in December. 

“Things need to be done differently for now,” said conductor Mary Jane Austin. “We wish it weren't the case, but it looks like in-person concerts and rehearsals won't be happening for a while.”

Austin was referring to the COVID-19 pandemic and the virus which is transmitted through airborne droplets as people breathe. Public health guidance considers singing a high-risk activity.

“However, we stand firmly committed to keeping our community connected, both within our organization and beyond,” Austin said. “It has been a longstanding tradition of the MRC to provide a heartwarming holiday program every December, and this year we will continue that tradition even if it may take a different form.”  

The holiday concert will be presented online with further details shared with the community later in the season. Singers interested in taking part in the program will meet using Zoom on Monday evenings. 

The program will involve a few group numbers, smaller ensemble options, and opportunities for solos. Recording participation will be completely voluntary, based on everyone's comfort level. 

The singers will be accompanied by pianist Alison Cerutti and harpist Rebecca Kauffman, who also will manage video. 

New singers are invited to participate in rehearsals and if they choose, in the virtual concert. Singers do not need to be able to read music, but they must be able to sing their part with their voice section and be willing to put in effort outside of rehearsal.

More information: madriverchorale.net or call 496-4781.