At 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15, the Choir of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, Garrison, will present, a concert in the sanctuary honoring the Christmas season. It will feature a performance of Camille Saint-Saëns’ Oratorio de Noel (Christmas Oratorio), Opus 12. The concert will also include two carols by the contemporary English composer John Rutter (b. 1945) as well as a setting of the traditional French carol “Whence Is That Goodly Fragrance Flowing?”
Saint-Saëns (1835-1921), a French Romantic composer, conductor, pianist and organist, wrote prolifically and is largely known for his orchestral works. During his early career as a renowned church organist in Paris he composed this oratorio, which dates from 1858. It is scored for strings, harp, organ, chorus and soloists.
The entire performance will be under the direction of Dr. Durward Entrekin, music director at St. Philip’s. The Rev. Frank H. Geer is the church’s rector.
The St. Philip’s Church Choir, consisting of 24 members who volunteer their time and talent, has garnered a reputation for musical excellence. Each Sunday from September through June it performs an anthem as part of the worship service as well as special concerts keyed to major church events throughout the year. Its repertoire ranges from composers from the 16th into the 21st century.
The concert is free and open to the public. The church is located at 1101 Route 9D in Garrison, across from the Garrison School, where parking will be available.
