SUNY Ulster Hosts Fall Concerts and Tuba Christmas Celebration

SUNY Ulster in Stone Ridge, New York, will host a series of concerts as part of its fall program, culminating with the much-anticipated return of the Tuba Christmas Concert. The events are scheduled for December 3 and 4, 2023, with the Tuba Christmas Concert on December 6.

Concert Series Highlights

The first concert will take place on December 3 at 7:30 p.m. in the Quimby Theater. Under the direction of Cara Newsome, the College/Community Band and Percussion Ensemble will present a diverse program. The band will perform notable pieces such as “The Old Boatman” by Florence Price, “Frenzy” by Andrew Boysen, Jr., and “Sleep” by Eric Whitacre. Guest conductors Randolph Loder and Vic Izzo will lead performances of “Arabesque” by Samuel Hazo and others.

The Percussion Ensemble, directed by Paul Chambers, will entertain the audience with works by Wes Stephens, Alex Stopa, Béla Bartók, and Alan Keown, showcasing a variety of instruments including marimbas, vibraphones, and toms.

On December 4 at 7:30 p.m., the College Chorus, under the direction of Janet Gehres, will present a program focused on themes of unity and celebration. The evening will feature a mix of musical styles, including a Mozart opera chorus, patriotic hymns, and multicultural music. The ensemble will include performances by top student artists from the Weds@1:00 Recital Series and the applied music program.

Annual Tuba Christmas Concert

Following the concert series, SUNY Ulster will host the annual Tuba Christmas Concert on December 6. Musicians are invited to bring their tubas or baritones, don festive attire, and join in a celebration of holiday music. Registration for this event begins at 10:30 a.m. with a fee of $15, which includes a commemorative button. The rehearsal will start at 11:30 a.m., leading into the concert scheduled for 12:30 p.m.

Admission to all three concerts is free, though donations are encouraged to support future events. For further details, interested participants can contact Janet Gehres via email at [email protected].

This series of events promises to enrich the local community’s cultural landscape and provide an opportunity for musicians to showcase their talents while celebrating the festive season.