JUBILATE community youth choir debuts at Christ Church in Warwick

Warwick - “JUBILATE, The Community Youth Choir of Warwick” made its debut during Advent services Sunday, Dec. 17, at Christ Church in Warwick. The 14 singers from grades 5 through 12 presented a short program of vocal music exhibiting a range of performing styles from Praetorius’ graceful “Jubilate Deo” sung a capella with choir members positioned around the church and in the choir loft, to a rousing African folk tune, accompanied by pulsating percussion instruments played by Connor Crone. JUBILATE proved a dynamic match to the thundering church organ, which underpinned their performance of Earlene Rentz’s “Alleluja.” The packed church included parents and friends of the performers, Father Scott Barker, Rector of Christ Church, Mark Sisk, visiting Bishop of the Episcopal Dioceses of New York, and Father James Dietsche. JUBILATE was founded this year at Christ Church by a group of musicians and educators, led by Barker, with the goal of offering to gifted young vocalists in our region an exceptional musical education and performing opportunity. Vocal talent and a dedication to singing were the only requirements for participation; church membership was not a consideration. Conductor, composer and Monroe-Woodbury High School choral teacher David Crone came on board as music director, and he in turn approached his teaching colleague, choral conductor Steven Wing, for the position of assistant conductor. Warwick singer and social worker Anne Barker, who had been instrumental in planning the vision of JUBILATE, joined as chorus manager. Auditions were held in early fall, and 14 young singers were cast as the founding members. The group has been practicing weekly since September, learning to work together to better understand the fine points of musical phrasing, breathing, blending, diction and singing in foreign languages. “It’s been a lot of fun. I didn’t expect so much learning from this experience” said JUBILATE member Kayla Jardine-Vistocco. Added Beth Phelan: ”I didn’t expect to be performing so soon, and I have found the singing fun and interesting.” Shea Connelly is one of three male singers in the group. “We learned these songs in a very quick process. I am learning how to sight read and I enjoy holding my own as one of the male singers in the group.” Victoria Mariconti heard about the JUBILATE auditions from her voice teacher. “I love this experience, because I love to sing. I like the social connection with the other singers, the coming together, the music and the performing.” The youngest member of the group, Charlotte Caskey, added: “I am so proud to be in JUBILATE with all of these good singers.” “As a parent, I cannot say enough good things about JUBILATE. I love it. I love the confidence it has instilled in my children”, remarked Mary Raleigh, Kevin and Peter’s mom. “The staff is just wonderful. They are great with the kids: so considerate, nurturing and respectful. This experience is a blessing!” JUBILATE staff was quick to praise the debut performance. “This day is the coming to fruition of a concept David Crone and I have been dreaming of for quite a few years,” Baker said. “It is a privilege and pleasure to be a part of the JUBILATE administrative team. All have begun to pull together as a cohesive, supportive team to make quite glorious music.” Bishop Sisk remarked that the goal of JUBILATE to offer opportunity to talented youth from all corners of the community, irrespective of any religious affiliation, was a worthy aspiration that would give back much to audiences as well as participants. He encouraged the audience to support the growth of the choir. “JUBILATE is a great treat that will serve this community well.” JUBILATE will hold auditions for new members on Tuesday evening, Jan. 16, at Christ Church. 50 South St., Warwick. Exceptional quality singing voice is a must, although previous formal voice training is not necessary. For more information on JUBILATE, including audition details, please check the Web site at www.jubilatewarwick.net. Joan Tirrell provided this article.