(VERO BEACH, FL) December 4, 2023 – From popular American composer Joseph Martin comes a special program for Advent and Christmas, filled with carols and candlelight. On Sunday, December 17, the Chancel Choir of First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach will present Ceremony of Candles during the 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM services at the church located at 520 Royal Palm Boulevard, 32960. Ceremony of Candles includes beloved songs such as “Silent Night,” “What Child is This?,” “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” “In the Bleak Midwinter” and many others. The cantata will be performed by the 45-member Chancel Choir, under the direction of Dr. Jacob Craig, who will also play the piano during the service. Additional live musical accompaniment for Ceremony of Candles will be provided by musicians on flute, clarinet and percussion. Featured soloists include soprano Jill Compton and John Toohey, baritone. Written in 2006, Ceremony of Candles is one of 50 cantatas by composer, Joseph Martin. A cooked breakfast benefiting the youth programs at First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach will follow each service. Donations are welcome. For more information, visit www.FirstPresVero.org or call 772-562-9088.
Dr. Jacob Craig, Director of Music and Arts for First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach, looks forward to sharing the music of the Christmas season.
“The Chancel Choir has been rehearsing this beautiful work for weeks,” said Dr. Craig. “Music and the message of the Christmas story has the power to unite us all. We hope many members of the community will join us for these special musical services.”
First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach is known for its musical and artistic outreach to the Central Florida community. Under the direction of Dr. Jacob Craig, the Chancel Choir welcomes musically inclined adults and high school students. The 45-member group rehearses on Wednesday evenings in the choir room from 6:30-8 PM. The choir performs for all Sunday services, including special events and cantatas at Christmas and Easter. For a list of upcoming events or for more information about First Presbyterian of Vero Beach, visit www.FirstPresVero.org.