By Robin McKee Williams

The Monterey Peninsula Choral Society performed its Neo Noel contemporary choral concert directed by Desma Johnson on Saturday evening, December 12 at the Carmel Mission. This was an evening of rhythmic, upbeat international and inspirational Christmas music. Each choral selection had a fresh rhythmic idea which was accompanied by a variety of instrumentalists. The unique instrumental accompaniments included violin, euphonium, clarinet, flute, guitar, harp, trumpet, percussion and drums.

The eclectic first half of the program included songs from Ireland, Nigeria and P.D.Q. Bach. The program opened with Linda Spevacek’s “Irish Carol” as the choir proceeded energetically down the aisle to the front of the church. This charming entrance set the character of the lively concert to come. Cantate Gloria by Alan Bullard was sung a cappella with liveliness and vitality. Betelehemu, a Nigerian Christmas Song, arranged by Josh Gitomer, was scored for percussive instruments as well as polyrhythmic clapping and hand movements from the chorus. Several soloists from the chorus were featured, including Leslie Mulford’s  beautiful solo in “The Peace Carol” by Ron Harris, and Velvet Piini’s  lovely technique and style in Amy Grant’s “Breath of Heaven.” The humorous “Christmas Pipes” by Brendan Graham included kazoos played by the chorus interspersed with singing.

The highlight of the evening’s program was “Carols of the Heart” by Peter O. Williams, a Pacific Grove composer. This choral work consisting of three songs was sung by the Women’s Ensemble. “There is a Rose,” “Lord Jesus Once Was A Child” and Balulalow were elegantly composed with close dissonant and melodic harmonies. The appealing simplicity of his haunting melodies was truly beautiful. These choral pieces published in 2007 will undoubtedly place Mr. Williams in the forefront of American composers. Peter Williams received his music degree in Music Theory form Richland College in Texas and his BA in Contemporary Music form the College of Santa Fe.

Only three traditional carols were included: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” “Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella” and “Still on This Silent Night.” These were arranged with great clarity and harmonic interest, although, by contrast, the rhythmic ideas were calm and even. “Jingle Bells” arranged by Kirby Shaw leaned towards smooth jazz and a samba beat. This entertaining arrangement moved easily into the final selection of Handel’s “Messiah” entitled  “Hallelujah from Handel’s Messiah: A Soulful Celebration,” arranged by Michael Jackson, Mervyn Warren and Mark Kibble. This delightful concert was well received by the audience.

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Robin McKee Williams, MA, CMVT, is an active musical director and mezzo-soprano soloist for the Monterey Peninsula and San Francisco areas. Her training includes the Royal Conservatory of Music, Stanford University, San Jose State University and the McClosky Institute of Boston. She is presently pursuing a DMA degree from Boston University.