Wilmington Voices to hold two free holiday concerts next week

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Wilmington Voices, the region’s only professional choir, will present two free community holiday concerts next week featuring traditional Christmas carols and familiar seasonal music meant to evoke memories and connect with audiences of all ages.

Board President Michelle Woodbury and board member Beverly Andrews joined WWAY to preview the performances, which the group says are centered on themes of joy, unity, and peace.

Wilmington Voices is made up entirely of professional singers, many of whom have performed at the collegiate level or hold multiple music degrees. Woodbury said the choir was founded to fill a gap in the region, noting there is no other professional choral ensemble within roughly 180 miles. Members also sight-read at a high level and perform in multiple languages.

Woodbury said this year’s program features well-known Christmas carols that listeners may immediately recognize. “Music really lives in us,” she said, adding that the selections may bring back childhood memories or a sense of familiarity for many attendees.

The concerts are free and open to the public, though the organization accepts tax-deductible donations as a 501(c)(3). Woodbury said contributions help the choir purchase music, bring in professional singers when needed, and record performances.

The first concert will be held Friday, Dec. 19, at the Little Chapel on the Boardwalk in Wrightsville Beach. The second will take place Saturday, Dec. 20, at St. Andrew’s-Covenant Presbyterian Church on Market Street. Both begin at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m. Andrews said both venues are family-friendly, have ample parking, and are handicap accessible.

The choir will also host a raffle for a private three-hour yacht dinner cruise for up to 10 guests, departing from Bradley Creek Marina. Tickets are $25 each or five for $100.

Additional details can be found here.