A Holiday Concert for the Coast

The Ernest Bloch Bell Ringers joined by the Coastal Singers, Don Kreiger on keyboard, Dan Laux on hammered dulcimer, and Cyndy Solomon on recorder present their annual holiday concert Saturday Dec. 10 at 3 pm at the Gualala Arts Center.

Bell Director, Jeanne Jackson, found a rendition of “Joy to the World” written for handbells, organ and chorus that is sure to be a highlight of the concert. The Coastal Singers, accompanied by Krieger, will perform four pieces, including Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” and a fast and furious rendition of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.”

A very evocative arrangement of “What Child is This?” will be rung, with the solo part played by Dan Laux on hammered dulcimer, the first time the bell ringers have had this instrument paired with the bells. The lovely “Valley of Peace” will be performed by the ringers, and accompanied by Cyndy Solomon on recorder.

It wouldn’t be the holidays without the bell ringers playing “Carol of the Bells.” Another highlight will be Sita Milchev singing “Mary, Did You Know?” to the accompaniment of the bells. The audience will be invited to sing along with Rachel Kritz on “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” and to sing along with Rachel and Linda Bostwick on “Angels We Have Heard on High.”

The exquisite “Andante in F Minor,” which has become a signature piece of the Ernest Bloch Bell Ringers will be played. And, as is tradition, the program will end with an audience sing along of “Silent Night.”

Santa Claus will visit at 2:30 p.m. to hand out candy canes to kids of all ages and coffee, hot cider and home-baked cookies will be served in the foyer.

Tickets

Tickets are $10 Advance, $5 more day of performance;
youth (17 & under) admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

For advance purchase, visit Brown Paper Tickets or call them at 1-800-838-3006.
To purchase in person, visit the Gualala Arts Center or Dolphin Gallery in Gualala.