LEWISBURG W.Va. (WVDN)—On Saturday, Dec. 14, at 4 p.m., the Old Stone Community Choir and Orchestra will present an inspirational Christmas cantata composed and written by West Virginian John Maddy and conducted by Dr. Brennan Wood.
John Maddy, locally known for his piano and vocal performances with The West Virginia Jazz Orchestra, Big Shots-Billy Joel Tribute, The Greenbrier, and more, said, “As long as I can remember, Christmas music has been a source of joy in my life. I have fond memories of singing in church as a young kid and then later playing in band concerts. But my favorite concerts were always at Christmas. I can remember finally being old enough to help my organ instructor, Albert Lively, start picking out Christmas music in the middle of July. The excitement and joy this brought to me, I can never truly explain. I have always wanted to write my own Christmas cantata, and this is my first attempt.”
Brennan Wood, Director of Music for Old Stone, a multi-talented musician who is also a member of several orchestras, ensembles, and choirs, shared this reflection:
I’ve been very fortunate to get to work with John on his original cantata. It’s not often that, as a director, you have the opportunity to communicate directly with the composer and pick his brain on why he did things the way he did. John has beautifully intertwined his excellent style and mind for music with telling the Christmas story. Throughout the cantata, there are so many recapitulations in the orchestra from themes previously alluded to, which, to me, really symbolizes and reminds us that God was in complete control throughout Mary and Joseph’s journey. For example, in Mary’s Song, Mary questions God: ‘How can this be?’ ‘Why me?’ But, as the music continues, she finds resolution in God’s miracle, and her response changes to ‘Oh, let it be!’ as she lets go and lets God take control. The orchestra then recaps that theme during later selections in the cantata, reminding us that this is all part of God’s glorious plan of our salvation. John’s work isn’t just another collection of our favorite Christmas hymns but rather a true storytelling of the birth of our Savior through the brilliance of his musical writing. What an incredible opportunity for us to work with a local musical genius to bring the Christmas message to our community.
“Over the past few years, I’ve witnessed incredible growth, not only in size but in friendships and talent within the OSPC Community Choir and Orchestra. When the sanctuary is filled with friends, near and far, especially with so many people I’ve not met, and the music is enveloping us all, my heart grows, ‘three sizes!’. Truly! I feel encouraged, renewed in faith, and so thankful for the musical talent in our community and our church for hosting.”, said Townley Hamilton, Worship committee member.
In the words of John Maddy, “This Christmas, come, join and sing with us!”
Saturday, Dec. 14, 4 p.m., Old StonePresbyterian Church. Free. All Are Welcome.
