CAPE MAY — “Winds of Bethlehem,” a Christmas cantata with music by local composer Jane Sbarra, will have its world premiere at 4 p.m. on Sun., Dec. 11 at Episcopal Church of the Advent.
The cantata, a composition for choir, voice ensembles, soloists and organ, tells the ancient Christmas story in a contemporary musical setting. The librettist who crafted the words for Sbarra’s composition is Rev, Robert D. Reader of Villas.
In this work, the story of the birth of Jesus is presented in what Carol Obligado, who will play the organ at the premiere, called “unexpected and surprising ways.”
The winds from the title of the piece are portrayed by a quintet of vocalists who move the mood of the cantata from one of “mystery, to turbulence, to wonder and joy.”
The cantata will be performed by combined choirs of the First Presbyterian Church of Cape May and Church of the Advent under direction of Carol Obligado. Soloists will include Karen Buckley, Charlie Buckley and John Mitchell.
Sbarra has composed a number of choral works and musicals, including “The Prodigal,” “The Magi’ and “A Palette of Parables.”
Reader, a Presbyterian minister and former member of the faculty at Montclair State, has been the director/producer of The Butchers’ Guild Players, a theater ensemble presenting revivals, classics and new works.
Admission is free although a free-will offering will be taken to defray production expenses. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall.
For information call 609 884 6652. For information about seating and special needs or access call Advent’s parish office at 609 884 3065.
Episcopal Church of the Advent is at the corner of Washington and Franklin streets, (686 Washington St.). All are welcome.
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