Though it is scarcely known next to the Christmas music of England, Germany, and the other north European lands, Spain produced a large and distinctive body of both liturgical and popular works for the season from Advent to Epiphany. Christóbal de Morales’ motets, with their ethereal textures, poignant harmonies and passionate mysticism, are complemented by Francisco Guerrero’s lively villancicos, built upon lusty, folk-inspired dance rhythms. The Christmas music of the Spanish Renaissance has a unique flavor and offers some of the most captivating music you will hear anywhere this season.
The choir’s Musical Director, David Babbitt, has assembled an exciting program that contrasts the ethereal textures, and passionate mysticism of liturgical compositions with the lively folk inspired dance rhythms of popular works of the period. Spanish pilgrimage songs and chant from both the mosarabic and the Gregorian tradition will be prominently featured. The concerts will offer a rare opportunity to hear little-known masterpieces of the Spanish colonies, reflecting their European heritage and New World inspiration. Our traditional candlelight concert will feature our own lively Spanish church ensemble, with wind band, organ, strings and percussion.