The Choral Society of Pensacola will be performing a holiday program this Saturday, December 5.

The performances of Gladsome Tidings taking place at 3 pm and 6pm will be offered free to the community.   

UWF director of choral activities Dr. Peter Steenblik decided that performances will be held outdoors in efforts to keep both the audience and performers safe. He plans to strictly follow the recommendations of health experts. 

The spread of COVID-19 in choruses has been found to be high, so in order to combat this issue, Dr. Steenblik has thoroughly researched the transmission of the virus. He has carefully examined the practices of other choruses to develop a plan that will protect everyone involved. 

“2020 has been a stressful and challenging year for everyone,” said Dr. Steenblik. “We hope our music will spark the holiday spirit in everyone who hears it.” 

The selection of music for the program will include familiar songs such as Carol of the Bells and open with Caroling Caroling. The program will also include songs such as Go Where I Send Thee and A Ceremony of Carols, along with many other holiday arrangements.  Audience members can look forward to joining Nancy Grundahl in singing Be Swift to Love.

The fall semester for the chorus began with Zoom practice sessions and eventually transitioned to in-person rehearsals outdoors on the Pensacola State College campus. Two dozen of the Society’s members chose to take part in the in-person sessions to prepare for their performances. 

 Singers have been rehearsing with masks designed for singers while remaining six feet apart at all times. They plan to maintain these practices in their live performances. 

The outdoor venue for the Pensacola Choral Society’s performance of Gladsome Tiding will be announced Friday, Dec. 4 on the Choral Society Facebook page and website. For more information, contact Charlie Smoke at [email protected].