The Noteables Illuminate Colorado with “We Are the Lights” Winter Concert Series
A local women’s chorus is aiming to uplift communities during a challenging season with a series of performances titled “We Are the Lights,” scheduled for December 12-14 in Buena Vista and Salida, Colorado. The concerts promise a diverse program of seasonal music designed to evoke emotion and foster a sense of unity.
A Beacon of Hope in Challenging Times
In a period marked by uncertainty, the Noteables seek to offer a respite through the power of song. The chorus, under the direction of Linda Taylor, has curated a repertoire encompassing familiar Christmas carols reimagined with unique harmonies, alongside winter-themed ballads, and uplifting selections centered on themes of “peace, light and love.”
The performances will take place at Mountain Heights Baptist Church in Buena Vista on December 12 at 7 p.m., at the Salida SteamPlant on December 13 at 7 p.m., and a matinee performance at the SteamPlant on December 14 at 3 p.m.
Musical Diversity and Collaborative Spirit
Beyond the core chorus, the performances will be enhanced by a talented ensemble of musicians. Oso Blanco will provide percussion, while Joan Ware will perform on solo piano, accompanied by Kathleen Chiras on electric bass and flautist Brenda Covert. Judy Bullen serves as the choir’s piano accompanist.
Taylor emphasized the creative approach to familiar tunes, stating, “There’s so many different ways to sing carols.” The Noteables plan to present both well-loved songs with fresh harmonic arrangements and lesser-known pieces, offering audiences a unique listening experience.
A Message of Hope and Community
Members of the chorus highlighted the emotional resonance of the selected pieces. One soprano shared that her favorite song, “One Small Lamb,” beautifully depicts the angelic announcement to the shepherds. Another noted the increased focus on Christmas-themed music this year.
The concert’s namesake, “We Are the Lights,” holds particular significance for Taylor. She recalled the song’s powerful lyrics: “Where there is dark, where there are shadows, When doubt surrounds us in the night. We are the gift, we are the hope, we are the spark, We are the lights!”
“It’s hard during these times to have a positive attitude,” Taylor admitted. “My focus as a director is to collect songs that leave an emotional impact on people – that make them cry or maybe laugh … even if only one person is touched, that is worth the 13 weeks of rehearsals we do.”
Inclusive and Engaging Performances
The production will also feature visually engaging elements, with performances like “Candy-Covered Gingerbread House” and “One of Those Southern Winters” incorporating props such as candy canes and simulated snow. The chorus aims to balance more serious selections with lighter, humorous pieces.
A particularly anticipated moment will be a combined rendition of “Peace on Earth” and “Silent Night,” designed to encourage audience participation. The Noteables are an inclusive group, welcoming singers of all levels without requiring auditions. As one member put it, “We struggle together and we succeed together.”
Taylor is already planning for future performances, having begun selecting music for a spring concert three months prior to the start of rehearsals. She underscored the unifying power of music, stating, “It is often said that music is the universal language. What matters most is that we raise our voices together in song and awaken to the joy and solidarity that comes from creating something greater than ourselves.”
A suggested donation of $15 will help cover the costs of music and publicity. For further information, contact Taylor at 719-539-2428, and to learn more about the group, visit SalidaSings.org. Tax-deductible contributions are gratefully accepted.
