Tag Archives: Emily Garber

Candlelight Shines

Posted on December 17, 2023 | 3 comments

The 83rd annual Candlelight Concert is -= as always — a treasure.

The Staples High School Music Department’s gift to the town debuted Friday night. It continued with 2 more performances, yesterday afternoon and evening.

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

This year’s production included the world premiere of “I Found the Light,” a commissioned work by 2013 graduates Jake Landau and Emily Garber. The composers took well-deserved bows from the audience.

“I Found the Light” composers Emily Garber and Jake Landau.

Hundreds of orchestra, band and choral members participated. Bravo to directors Jeri Brima, Philip Giampietro, Carrie Mascaro, Lauren Pine and Caitlin Serpliss for their wonderful work!

One view of the “Sing We Noel” processional … (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

… and another. (Photo/Dan Woog)

The Symphonic Orchestra, during the “Sing We Noel” processional. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Brassy “La Morisque.” (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Orchestral concentration. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Among the small ensembles: The Jazz Combo played “O Hanukkah.” (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Rudolph — the famous reindeer — joined the production number. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Alumni of all ages headed to the stage for the “Hallelujah Chorus.” (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

The combined symphonic orchestra and choral ensembles — plus alumni — at Friday’s “Hallelujah Chorus.” As is traditional, the audience stands. (Photo/Mark Potts)

View from the risers, before Saturday’s “Hallelujah Chorus.” (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Lauren Pine made her debut as Staples choral director. (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

Phil Giampietro, after conducting “I Found the Light.” (Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

 

 

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“I Found The Light”: Commissioned Piece Premiers At Candlelight

Posted on December 13, 2023 | 9 comments

The Candlelight Concert is one of Westport’s most beloved traditions.

From the haunting “Sing We Noel” processional to the majestic “Hallelujah Chorus” — with choirs, orchestras, bands and a special production number in between — the Staples High School Music Department’s gift to the town is a centerpiece of the holiday season.

It’s hard to imagine anything more special. But this weekend’s 83rd annual concert promises an astonishing addition.

Two Class of 2013 graduates — composer Jake Landau and poet Emily Garber — have collaborated on a piece commissioned solely for this year’s Candlelight.

“I Found the Light” is the Music Department’s first commissioned work in 40 years. The world premiere marks a new chapter in the school’s rich musical heritage.

A video that will play before each concert this weekend offers background into the artistic process, from the composer, the librettist, and Staples’ orchestra, band and choral directors.

The video provides an intimate look into the creative process and the significant impact this commission has had on students and faculty. It underscores the vital role of new art and contemporary artists in our world, and shows how Staples students have a unique chance to contribute to the creation of new music.

The story behind the commission is so compelling, and the video so insightful, that it deserves the widest possible audience.

So here it is. Click below or — if your browser does not support embedding — click here.

 

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Candlelight Concert Tickets Available December 1

Posted on November 20, 2023 | Comments Off on Candlelight Concert Tickets Available December 1

For 83 years, the Candlelight Concert has been the Staples High School music department’s gift to the town.

With its “Sing We Noel” processional, “Hallelujah Chorus” finale, and wondrous performances by the choirs, orchestras and bands, Candlelight is timeless.

But there is always something new, too.

This year, it’s the world premiere of a specially commissioned piece.

“I Found the Light” is a collaborative creation by a pair of Class of 2000 graduates: composer Jake Landau and poet Emily Garber. Afterward, it will be shared worldwide.

That premiere — and the rest of the much-anticipated concert, including Vaughan Williams’ “Greensleeves Fantasia,” “Ose Shalom” by John Leavitt, and Leroy Anderson’s classic “A Christmas Festival” — is Friday, December 15 (8 p.m.) and Saturday, December 16 (3 and 8 p.m.).

Tickets will be available to the public at 9 a.m. on Friday, December 1 (online at www.staplesmusic.org. There is a maximum of 4 tickets per order.

There is no charge for Candlelight tickets. However, donations to support the music program are graciously accepted.

Veteran Candlelight-goers know: Tickets sell out fast. Mark your calendar now for 9 a.m., December 1.

 This year’s Candlelight poster was designed by Staples art and music student Shivali Kanthan.

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