The surest sign of the holidays yet: Candlelight Concert tickets are available next week.
The 85th annual event — one of the most beloved of all Westport traditions — takes place Friday, December 12 (8 p.m.) and Saturday, December 13 (3 and 8 p.m.).
Since 1941, this annual gift to the Westport community showcases the talents of more than 200 students in Staples High School’s nationally recognized music program.
Tickets are available to the public starting at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, December 2. Log on to www.staplesmusic.org. (Warning: They sell out quickly!)
There is no charge for Candlelight tickets. However, donations to support the music program are accepted.
Hundreds of students make Candlelight magic. (Photo/Kerry Long)
This year’s Candlelight promises a show filled with “reflection and joy — a celebration of timeless music and new beginnings.” Choral ensembles, and the symphonic orchestra and band, will offer a wide range of works, honoring the holidays in a variety of ways.
The program opens with Susato’s spirited “La Morisque,” and the treasured Candlelight processional, “Sing We Noel.”
That leads into “Ashlosha D’Avarim,” a musical setting of the Pirkei Avot verse that highlights the enduring values of truth, justice and peace.
The audience is then taken on a journey through vivid musical landscapes, from the brisk energy of Prokofiev’s “Troika” to the lush harmonies of Rachmaninov’s
“Bogoroditse Devo,” and the radiant optimism of Rosephanye Powell’s “Ogo ni fun Oluwa.”
A highlight of the evening is John Rutter’s “Gloria.” Over 200 students share the stage for this cornerstone of contemporary choral music.
Candlelight will also feature favorites performed by student-led ensembles.
The concert concludes with Leroy Anderson’s iconic “Sleigh Ride,” followed — as always — by Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus.” Alumni join the musicians on stage, for the rousing finale.
NOTE: In the spirit of the season, the Staples Tri-M Music Honor Society will again sponsor “CanDelight” — a canned food donation drive benefiting the Homes for Hope food pantry. Collection bins will be in the lobby before every concert.
This year’s poster was designed by art and music student Connor Yuan.
Any hope that the concert will be streamed for us old folks, now out of state? Nostalgia trip!!
This has come up in the past. I believe there are copyright issues with live performances of some of the music.
One of my favorite memories
Jack Backiel would know.
Eric, For the first time in decades, I have to humbly admit I have no answer! I have no idea.
See my answer above.
I am so excited. My sister and I, 1961 and 1963 graduates, and another local friend, 61 graduate, are flying in from Oklahoma to attend the concert. We are so excited
Lucy weberling, staples 1961