I like that phrase! Gloria in excelsis Deo—Glory to God in the Highest! As you probably know, it's a Latin phrase that comes from the song the angels sang to the shepherds as they announced the birth of Jesus the Messiah:
Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.
People who study such things tell us that this jubilant text has been in use since the second century. Imagine it! Singing these words puts us in a long line of singers that may date back as much as 1800 years!
The Glen Ellyn-Wheaton Chorale is excited about singing the popular Gloria written by prolific composer John Rutter. This brilliant work will form the centerpiece of this year's Wintersong Christmas concert. Do you like brass? You won't want to miss this concert! Rutter's Gloria is a virtual display piece for choir, brass, and organ. After this quarter hour of listening, if you aren't ready for Christmas, we'll refund your money!
But that's not all! Our concert will also feature quieter moments, such as the stunning Emily Crocker setting of Do You Hear What I Hear?, and another Rutter composition, this one a hauntingly beautiful setting of the lullaby Dormi Jesu (Sleep, Jesus). And we've reserved something big and festive to end our concert—and it just might include a singalong!
We think that our two Wintersong concerts are a great way for you and your family to enter the Christmas season! Why not put these dates on your calendar right now? They'll be here before you know it!
Friday, December 2 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, December 3 at 3:00 pm
Both concerts will be held at College Church in Wheaton, a beautiful space for singing, both acoustically and visually. You can find ticket information on the main page of this website.
I know I speak for the entire Chorale when I say that it will be wonderful to have you in our audience!
Greg Wheatley
Music Director, Glen Ellyn-Wheaton Chorale