The Fresno Christian Choir presents their annual Christmas concert, led by choir director Susan Ainley alongside pianist Ben Certain, Dec. 15. Opening the concert at Redemption Bible Church to a crowd of FC parents, families and friends introducing a night full of music presented by the FC Choirs, Junior High Choir, Bell Choir, and a series of student solos.
To begin the night, Senior K’Lanna McArn sang “Once in Royal David’s City” as a solo performance.
Following, Scott Falk, FC Elementary School Vice Principal, told the story of Christmas alongside a solo performance by Matt Tacchino, ‘26, singing “Come. Thou Long Expected Jesus”. With that, the FC Choir sang “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”, continuing the story of the Christmas miracle.
Scott Falk has read the “Lessons” since this tradition started. “Every year that I read the scriptures, and at some point in reading, I get emotional. This year especially, I was moved when the angel came to Mary. So when I read, they are not just scriptures to me, but they actually move me. I guess it is just the power of the season,” Falk says.
Sung by FC Choirs, “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing” symbolizes the excitement following Jesus’ birth.
7th grader, Jaxson Dettman sang a solo rendition of “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming”, followed by a performance from the Bell Choir of “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and the FC Choir seniors singing “O Little Town of Bethlehem” including a solo by Senior Olivia Saldivar.
FC Women’s Ensemble and Junior High choir then sang “Away in a Manger”, with a solo by 8th grader Ella Fugate, singing “O Come All Ye Faithful”.
Susan Ainley has taught choir at Fresno Christian for 25 years. Ainely says, “There are several moments during the season that really speak “Christmas”. Our school is fantastic about keeping the focus on the birth of Christ, and sharing His love to all around us. I believe there is no better way to share these special moments of the season than through choral singing. It just hits the mark!”
As the story of Christmas continued to be told, Chara Jacobs, ‘27 sang a solo of “Angels We Have Heard on High” with “Go Where I Send Thee” sung by the Women’s Ensemble following.
Men’s Ensemble then sang “Little Lamb” with a solo by Senior Caleb Tuck.
The night concluded with the choir performing “Joy to the World”, bringing the night to a close followed by an offertory solo of “Gesu Bambino” sung by Senior Bella Barrett and finally wrapping up the event with the concluding song from the choir, “All On A Silent Night”.
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