Music lovers of all types will find something to smile about at the Wharton County Junior College Choir’s upcoming fall concert, “From Classical to Classics.”
Scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 14, at the Horton Foote Theatre in the Duson-Hansen Fine Arts Building on the Wharton campus, the event will feature classical pieces as well as more popular types of music such as jazz, pop standards, and classic rock. The concert is free of admission and open to the public.
“This concert features a wide variety of different styles of music, and it showcases the students’ ability to do both, which make for a well-rounded musician in today’s world,” said WCJC Choir Director Dr. Kevin Klotz. “I think listeners will enjoy the great contrast between the selections on the program.”
Selections will include everything from Renaissance period songs to the works of Mozart to pop-rock classics from the Doobie Brothers. Songs will span three different languages: English, Latin and Italian. Moving between such varied styles was not without challenges, but Klotz said it’s important for the choir to develop foundational skills that can be built upon in the future.
“Classical music is very important for the development of good musicianship and singing technique,” he said. “It also helps prepare our students for when they transfer to other schools and continue singing in choirs throughout their life. The students have also enjoyed singing the popular songs; these engaging arrangements of familiar pop songs are tricky rhythmically but are a lot of fun to sing.”
The performance will include both vocal and instrumental soloists, including a trumpet player from the WCJC Band. Pianist for the concert will be WCJC Instructor of Music Debra Lemson, a veteran of numerous performances.
Klotz encouraged music lovers to come out and enjoy the show.
“Everyone will enjoy the wide variety of music and talent represented on this program,” he said.