By Linda Parker
Special to The PREVIEW
Thursday, Dec. 6, the Pagosa Springs Girls Choir (PSGC) will present its annual holiday concert, “Christmas in Pagosa” at the Community United Methodist Church. The concert will begin at 7 p.m.
Local musician Perry Schjolin will be on hand to serenade the audience with holiday favorites, putting all in a festive spirit of the season. Also on hand will be the quartet Noel, under the direction of Dan Burch. The quartet, which includes soprano Venita Burch, alto D’Ann Artis, tenor Perry Schjolin and bass Dan Burch, performs for many community events during the holiday season. The PSGC is thrilled to have them on the concert this year.
PGSC concert admission is always free, but donations are gratefully accepted. All proceeds will go toward operating expenses and the educational trip in the summer of 2019.
“After a stellar trip to New York City last summer, the girls will explore many of the marvelous arts performances in the Pagosa/Durango area, said Linda Parker, director. “There are many excellent organizations offering opportunities for folks of all ages to participate in arts activities, including music, dance, theater and art in Pagosa as well as neighboring communities. It is important for our girls to know that wherever life may take them, they will always be able to find a musical group or community theater to join. Sometimes what we look for can be found in our own backyard. If they choose to not participate as a performer, all groups need an audience. Music is a lifelong skill and can be enjoyed in many ways throughout life.”
A special guest will be on hand for this year’s concert. Patti Dorph, docent from the 9/11 Tribute Museum in New York City, will be in Pagosa. The girls met Dorph on their trip to New York last summer. The Tribute Museum was founded by survivors and relatives of those lost in the attack. Watching video of stories and actual footage from 2001, the museum is a very moving place to visit. It was a highlight of the trip and the girls were enthralled by all the museum offered. Dorph’s husband, who is now retired, was the chief of the fire station that was closest to the World Trade Center. Those in the station were the very first to appear on that horrific scene. Sharing her story, Dorph quickly connected with our girls. Having Dorph in Pagosa will be a true honor for the girls.
Concertgoers can also do a little shopping at the concert as Rocky Mountain Chocolate bars and our hymnal angels will be available for purchase.
We hope that the Pagosa community will make this concert a “must see” on their holiday calendar this year and support these young musicians. Please come and experience how very special “Christmas in Pagosa” can be.
