Join Raymond Jones this Wednesday at 9 p.m. on WHRO-FM for “A Local Touch – Music with a Virginia Connection,” as we welcome the first wave of seasonal sounds from across the Commonwealth.
This week’s show begins with a major holiday highlight coming to Hampton Roads this month: the Grammy-nominated British vocal ensemble VOCES8. Before their appearances in Norfolk, Williamsburg, and Richmond, you’ll hear them right here on WHRO-FM performing Benjamin Britten’s “Rejoice in the Lamb.”
From there, the celebration continues with the lively spirit of Barolk Folk, whose album “Come Let Us Be Merry,” recorded by Bias Studios in Springfield, offers fresh instrumental takes on traditional carols and dances.
We’ll also spotlight a Virginia Beach native making music on the international stage: Joe Burgstaller, long-time member of Canadian Brass, joins the ensemble for a festive Christmas medley that showcases both virtuosity and good cheer.
Then it’s up to Northern Virginia for Choralis performing Bob Chilcott’s radiant “Gloria,” a work that has become a contemporary seasonal favorite among choirs across the region.
Back in Hampton Roads, JoAnn Falletta leads the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, chorus, and soloists in the Christmas portion of Handel’s “Messiah.” And to round out the evening, the shimmering bells of the Virginia Handbell Consort, directed by Agnes French, ring in the season with a sparkling holiday medley.
Sounds of the season with deep Virginia roots, this Wednesday evening at 9:00 on WHRO-FM, and online, with “A Local Touch.”
Sounds of the Season with ‘A Local Touch’
Andy Staples
