Lessons and Carols features the Cathedral Choir under the direction of Ralph Holtzhauser
NEWS RELEASE
November 27, 2024
Contact: Ralph Holtzhauser, Diocesan Director of Music and Cathedral Musician, (330) 744-8451, ext. 212; rholtzhauser@youngstowndiocese.org
YOUNGSTOWN, OHIO – Saint Columba Cathedral will present its annual Advent Festival of Lessons and Carols on Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 6:00 p.m., with the Very Reverend Monsignor Robert Siffrin, Rector of the Cathedral of Saint Columba, presiding. The service will feature the Cathedral Choir, under the direction of Mr. Ralph Holtzhauser, Diocesan Director of Music, and the cathedral lectors coordinated by Mrs. Laura Elder, and families of the parish led by Sister Martha Reed, OSU. The program is based on the ancient traditional “The Great O Antiphons.” These date back to the eighth century and accompany the Magnificat canticle of Evening Prayer from December 17-23. Peter Hallock’s rich take on these antiphons provide a majestic yet prayerful experience. The event is free and open to the public, with a free-will offering gladly accepted and a reception to follow. Security and ample free parking will be provided.
Also, on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at 6:30 p.m., renowned organist Jason Roberts will perform an improv concert based on Advent themes. Roberts is Director of Music at the Church of the Blessed Sacrament in New York City and winner of the American Guild of Organists National Competition in organ improvisation. His compositions have been performed at such various venues as Princeton University Chapel in New Jersey, Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, and Westminster Abbey in London. The concert is free and open to the public and a reception will be held after. A donation of $10 per person is suggested to help continue this self-sustained series.
CORRECTION: This announcement has been updated to indicate that Very Rev. Msgr. Robert Siffrin Rector of the Cathedral, will preside over the Advent Festival of Lessons & Carols. A previous version of this announcement listed Most. Rev. David J. Bonnar, Bishop of Youngstown, as the presider.
