submitted by Sylvia Thompson
Ten years ago, Judy Patsos, Choir Director of the United Methodist Church, Berlin, got some Easter music in the mail. Christmas being so honored with music, Judy wondered if the same could be done with the holiest of Christian holidays, so she invited singers from churches in Berlin, Petersburgh, Stephentown and Grafton to join together to perform an Easter Cantata.
The first year Judy directed the choir the accompaniment was on CD. In subsequent years, Karen Webster, Music Director of the Petersburgh Baptist Church, has very capably directed and accompanied the choir.
One year they decided to take the year off, much to the disappointment of many who had come to enjoy these concerts so much. The outcry from fans and singer participants brought the cantata back the following year. As one singer said this year, “This music stays with me all week between rehearsals. It really lifts my spirit.”
The choir now has about 30 members. New singers are welcome each year (no auditions!) The Ninth Annual Easter Cantata, titled Season of Promise, will have two evening performances, Saturday, April 16, at 7 pm in the All Saints Church in Hoosick (next to Curtis Lumber) and Saturday, April 23, at 7 pm in the Petersburgh Baptist Church. Come and have your spirit lifted!
