Master Singers Chorale of Northeast Ohio will feature works by Francis Poulenc, Franz Biebl, Tomas Luis de Victori, as well as Christmas songs and carols in its 2026 holiday season concert at 4 p.m. Dec. 6.
Poulenc's 1959 "Gloria" is a joyous interpretation of the liturgical text "Glory to God in the highest" for choir and soprano soloist. This performance features nationally acclaimed coloratura soprano Katherine Jolly.
Another 20th Century piece, German composer Franz Biebl's Ave Maria, juxtaposes early plainchant with lush, lyrical choral textures, and features three solo voices.
The program also includes a late 16th Century piece by the Spanish composer Victoria, O Magnum Mysterium,"Â Â This polyphonic prize of the late Renaissance imparts a sense of wonder at "O great mystery" for the Christmas scene of animals witnessing the birth of "the newborn Lord, lying in a manger."
Along with other music of the season and a closing audience carol sing, this performance is presented with free admission, thanks to sponsors the Akron Community Foundation and the Ohio Arts Council. The concert is hosted by Fairlawn Lutheran Church, 3415 W. Market St., Fairlawn, Ohio (immediately west of Summit Mall, State Route 18, at the west end of Akron.) For more information, see www.mastersingersinc.org .
