The Peninsula Singers performs “A Dave Brubeck Christmas” Nov. 20-21 in Sequim.  Photo by Dave Logan

“A Dave Brubeck Christmas” will be featured when the Peninsula Singers, under the direction of Dewey Ehling, takes center stage at its annual pre-Christmas concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 20, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 21, at Trinity United Methodist Church. 100 Blake Ave., Sequim.

 

Dave Brubeck, one of America’s great jazz pianists, wrote “La Fiesta de la Posada” to commemorate his boyhood experience growing up on a ranch located on what had been a Mexican land grant near Stockton, Calif. The Posada, a custom depicting Joseph and Mary’s search for lodging on the eve of her confinement, is re-enacted from Dec.16-25 throughout Latin America and in the Southwest.

 

The music includes the chorus, the three kings and Mary, who sings a poignant aria with text from Luke 1:46 -56, the Magnificat, “My Soul Magnifies the Lord.” Linda Grubb will be featured as Mary, while Trent Pomeroy, Brian Doig and Gary McRoberts portray the three kings in search of the Christ child.

 

The mariachi band includes two trumpets, played by Dan Schmidt and George Stewart from Seattle, local pianist/accompanist Sandy Rawson, and percussionists Sonja Shipley and Carol Wood. The trumpets are sensational and will open the concert with a delightful fanfare.

 

The first half of the concert includes some familiar music related to nature and the Northwest: “Trees,” “The Green Cathedral” and an original composition by Karen Williamson, “Joyful Pilgrim.” Also on the program are original compositions by local composers Bernard Super, Jane Stevenson and Jaie Livingston.

 

Conductor Dewey Ehling has worked with Brubeck on two occasions. During performances, Brubeck frequently inserts improvisation, embellishing the composition.

 

Tickets are available from The Itty Bitty Buzz in Port Angeles and The Buzz in Sequim. Ticket prices are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and students. Tickets also are available from members and at the door.