The Tar River Children’s Chorus is a choir for children ranging from fourth grade all the way up to twelfth grade (with ages separated into Cantare, Concert, and Ensemble), and last Saturday, they performed their annual Christmas concert for the 22nd year! Many Rocky Mount Academy Eagles participated in this fun event.  

Starting at 7:30 pm, the concert ran approximately one hour and thirty minutes. The show opened with all three sections in “Tomorrow Shall be My Dancing Day” and then moved onto “Little Babe, Emmanuel” and “The Little Drummer Boy” performed by the Cantare. Following an incredible solo by the harpist, the Ensemble performed “The Christmas Song” and “A Christmas Hallelujah.” The Tar River Strings then played a selection of songs featuring RMA’s Margaret (4th) and Sophie (7th) Chafin, which was then followed by the Concert Chorus singing “Ding Dong! Merrily on High,” “What Sweeter Music,” “Breath of Heaven (Mary’s Song),” and “Carol of the Bells.” The Cantare then came back on stage to perform “I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas,” which was then followed by the whole chorus singing “Patapan.” The audience got to participate in the last two songs, “The Twelve Days of Christmas” and “Sing Joy!” (which was my personal favorite). 

This event was fun for both choristers and audience alike. TRCC member Ada Dunton (7th) said “It was super fun to be surrounded by so many kind, talented singers! And [conductor] Mrs. Patsy is awesome!” while viewer Cindy Feagans commented, “The Tar River Children’s Chorus’ concert is one of our favorite traditions. It is a wonderful way to kick off the season and hearing all the wonderful music always puts me into the Christmas spirit.” The chorus conductor, Patsy Gilliland, remarked, “The purpose of the concert is to spread joy and the love of Christ, not only to the community, but to the kids and their parents as well. It is also to showcase the talent of the children because most people have no idea that young people can sing like that. I was absolutely delighted with the concert. It was not perfect, but it was beautiful all the same.” I have been a member for the last eight years, and I can personally say that participating in this concert is one of my favorite parts of Christmas. It is such a wonderful experience. 

If you missed the concert this year, don’t worry; there will always be one next year! There will also be a concert in the spring, which I highly encourage you to attend if you are able to. It is a great opportunity to listen to beautiful music and engage in the community.