Dec. 8, 2023 By Anthony Medina
The Ridgewood Property Owners and Civic Association brought nearby school choirs, singers and musicians to celebrate the holiday season with a dazzling Christmas concert on Wednesday, Dec. 6.
A packed house of worship at the Ridgewood Presbyterian Church, located on 59-14 70th Ave. in Ridgewood, listen to performances by the Christ the King High School Choir, Our Lady of Victory Choir, Handbell Choir and the Connolly Sisters.
The Christ the King High School Choir, led by Musical Director Heather Arzberger and pianist Michael Ouellette, filled the church halls with familiar holiday songs.
Joining the Middle Village school was Our Lady of Victory Choir, accompanied by the Handbell Choir from Floral Park, whose combined musical talents paid homage to holiday classics. Music Director Joanna Connolly-Pepe and organist Steven Haufe, along with Pianist and Handbell Director Lisa Kelly, conjoined the sounds of vocals and musical instruments into one cohesive unit.
Showcasing their talents as a family trio were The Connolly Sisters. Rachel, Joanna and Shannon Connolly graced attendees with their vocals and charisma. The three sisters entranced the audience with Christmas songs and joined with the other choirs throughout the night.
Audience members of the Christmas concert were encouraged to sing along to classical songs including “Deck the Halls,” “O Come all Ye Faithful,” “Silent Night,” “Joy to the Word” and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.”
At the end of the concert, guests were treated to some holiday cookies and beverages. All choirs and participants were thanked by the Ridgewood Property Owners and Civic Association for their time and performances.
Ridgewood Property Owners and Civic Association members sit and listen to the holiday hymns. Photo by Anthony Medina
The Christ the King High School Choir was joined by fellow student vocalists at the Christmas concert. Photo by Anthony Medina
The Connolly Sisters join together in song and share the joys of Christmas through their charming persona. Photo by Anthony Medina
Lead Organist Steven Haufe was responsible for bringing the schools and choirs together for the special night of Christmas songs. He lent his skills as an organist through song to performers throughout the night. Photo by Anthony Medina
The Handbell Choir masterfully demonstrated the use of handbells and the Suzuki. Photo by Anthony Medina