Decorah Choral announces guest artists for December 12 concert

On Sunday afternoon at 4:30 p.m., December 12, the Decorah Chorale will present its 11th anniversary "Home for Christmas" benefit concert for the Winneshiek County Habitat for Humanity at St. Benedict's Church in Decorah. Special guest conductor this year will be Dr. Allen Hightower, Luther College Nordic Choir Director.  Special guest artist will be local resident, and Chicago based vocalist, Bonnie Koloc.

Serving as narrators will be Choral members Father Phillip Gibbs, Julie Vulk, David Sweet, Carol Kelly, John and Leslie Cuvelier, and John Bay.

Program selections will include "O Magnum Mysterium" by Morten Lauridsen, Randall Thompson's "Alleluia," "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty," "Salvation is Created" by Tschesnokoff, John Rutter's "Candlelight Carol" and "Christmas Night," and the beautiful, new publication of  "The First Noel" by Dan Forrest. The concert will conclude with Christiansen's classic arrangement of "Beautiful Savior."

This year's benefit concert is underwritten by Kim and Andy Bonnet at the Rubaiyat Restaurant in Decorah. Admission is complimentary; however, as is the tradition with this concert, a free-will offering will be donated to Habitat for Humanity.

Accompanist for the Chorale is Ms. Clara Byom; associate conductors are Ann Kvale and David Shaffer. Founder and director of the Decorah Chorale is John Bay.