A MASTER SINGERS CHRISTMAS

WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH HARRIS CENTER FOR THE ARTS 13TH AND N STREETS 21ST AND J STREETS FOLSOM LAKE COLLEGE DECEMBER 10, 2017 @ 3 PM DECEMBER 16, 2017 @ 7 PM DECEMBER 21, 2017 @ 7 PM DECEMBER 17, 2017 @ 3 PM DECEMBER 19, 2017 @ 7 PM

DR. RALPH HUGHES EMILY CARBREY HEIDI VAN REGENMORTER ARTISTIC DIRECTOR & CONDUCTOR ASSISTANT CONDUCTOR ACCOMPANIST

Jerusalem Luminosa INTERMISSION LYRICS BY THOMAS Á KEMPIS MUSIC BY ABBIE BETINIS Ave Generosa TEXT BY HILDEGARD VON BINGEN Noël Nouvelet MUSIC BY OLA GJEILO TRADITIONAL FRENCH CAROL Soloist: Tina Harris ARR. BY SOFIA SÖDERBERG The Midnight of Your Birth O Magnum Mysterium TEXT BY CHARLES BENNETT MUSIC BY RENÉ CLAUSEN MUSIC BY BOB CHILCOTT Soloist: Rikki Pratt Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind And Lo, the Angel of the Lord TEXT BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE MUSIC BY SIR JAMES MACMILLAN MUSIC BY JOHN RUTTER Soloist: Stephen Hill Silent Night Shepherds, Rejoice! TEXT BY JOSEPH MOHR TEXT BY ISAAC WATTS TRANSLATION BY JOHN F. YOUNG MELODY BY L. P. BREEDLOVE MUSIC BY FRANZ GRÜBER ARR. BY CAROL BARNETT ARR. BY PAUL JOHNSON

Still, Still, Still Ave Maria TEXT BY MARILYN KEITH & ALAN BERGMAN FRANZ BIEBL AUSTRIAN CAROL Soloists: Thomas Voigt, Kurtis Kroon, ARR. BY NORMAN LUBOFF David Kasperik Sextet: John Masters, Thomas Voigt; O Nata Lux Byron Jackson, David Temme; MUSIC BY MORTEN LAURIDSEN David Kasperik, Anthony Tavianini

Away in a Manger Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer MELODY BY W.J. KIRKPATRICK MUSIC BY JOHNNY MARKS ARR. BY PHIL MATTSON ARR. BY A. HAWLEY BARRY Soloists: Nancy Balenzano, Rikki Pratt Good Ale Christmas Medley 15TH CENTURY TEXT ARR. BY LINDA DAWSON MUSIC BY JOHN RUTTER

Huron Carol White Winter Hymnal ARR. BY SARAH QUARTEL BY ROBIN PECKNOLD ARR. BY ALAN BILLINGSLEY Noel TRADITIONAL KITUBA TEXT Rise Up, Shepherd MUSIC BY TODD SMITH TRADITIONAL SPIRITUAL ARR. BY BRAD HOLMES ARR. BY STACEY V. GIBBS Duet: Chris Goff, William Zinn Soloists: Ryan De Boer, Stephen Hill; Antiphonal duet: Kurtis Kroon, David Temme Ian Tillman, Anthony Tavianini 1 The Sacramento Master Singers

conductor soprano alto Dr. Ralph Hughes Angela Boardman Nancy Balenzano

assistant conductor Emily Carbrey* Celia Buckley Emily Carbrey Michelle Dunnaway Lucy Bunch

accompanist Caroline Firman Barbara Celli Heidi Van Jennifer Enright Katharine Hall Regenmorter Tina Harris Laurie Hanschu

percussion Debbie Hill Carol Horner Thomas Voigt Julie Jenness Debra Kahan Elli Johnston Elli Johnston Laura Lofgren Michelle Miller Carol McCormick* Ivy Williams Gretchen Morgan Mary Patt Rikki Pratt Haruko Sakakibara

tenor bass Stephen Hill Keith Atwater Byron Jackson Chris Dainard David Kasperik Ryan De Boer Kurtis Kroon Chris Goff Matt Metcalf John Masters Paul Miller Angelo McRath Dave Segura Andrew Smith Anthony Tavianini Ian Tillman David Temme* Damon Tribble Chris Webster* Lowell Valiant Thomas Voigt * Section Leader William Zinn* 2 Photo by Serge Kuzmin sms board of directors The Sacramento Master Singers artistic director Dr. Ralph Hughes The Sacramento Master numerous individuals and Singers (SMS) is a group ensembles with whom we president of more than forty-five have had the opportunity Laurie Hanschu singers from the greater to collaborate. These vice-president Sacramento area who include the Boston Pops, Caroline Firman are dedicated to the Sacramento Philharmonic, advancement of choral Sacramento Youth treasurer/secretary Andrew Smith music. Established in 1982, Symphony, Lynn Stevens the group is known for its and the Sacramento choral liaison commitment to delight, Children’s Chorus, James Chris Dainard challenge, and inspire Wheatley and Celebration sms business manager audiences with seasons Arts, Linda Goodrich and Julie Jenness programmed to include the Sacramento Black Art premieres, classics, and of Dance, Sacramento sms choral librarian a wide variety of musical Opera, Gershwin expert Celia Buckley periods and styles. and pianist Richard marketing intern Glazier, the Folsom Joey Tan SMS offers profound Symphony, and Celtic thanks to the numerous music duo Men of Worth. guest directors who have contact information conducted the choir. SMS has performed many P.O. Box 417997 These include Joseph area premieres such Sacramento, CA 95841 Jennings, Perla Warren, as the Robert D. Levin Moses Hogan, Maria completion of the Mozart 916.788.SING (7464) Guinand, Oscar Escalada, Requiem and the Alfred www.mastersingers.org Brian Stratton, Alice Schnittke Requiem. We Parker, and Vance George. have commissioned and We are also grateful to the performed new works

3 such as Elements by Dr. Ralph Hughes David O, If Music Be the Food of Love by Clifford Shockney, and the Sacramento-centric Where The Rivers Meet by Ken Medema and Finale by Larry Shackley — both of which also featured local poets. We often contract with instrumentalists Dr. Ralph Edward Hughes to provide additional has served as conductor 1992 and his Doctoral accompaniment, of the Sacramento Master Degree in Conducting in including the Sacramento Singers since 1986. His 2002 from the University State University leadership has generated of South Carolina. Percussion Group and increased recognition Grammy award winning for the group’s high Dr. Hughes is a member Native American flutist performance standards, of the California Music Mary Youngblood. innovative programming, Educators Association, the and interest in serving American Choral Director’s SMS plays a leadership the community. This is Association, and the role in bringing high- evidenced by the global International Federation quality choral music invitations extended to for Choral Music. In 1995, to area youth through these singers to perform he was recognized as outreach programs, and by the tremendous “Outstanding Music collaboration with college increase in audience Educator of the Year” choirs, scholarships attendance. Dr. Hughes’ by the California Music for young singers, direction helps fulfill the Educators Association and children’s holiday community’s need for Capitol Section. concerts. The Sacramento a professional-caliber Master Singers was one chamber choir. Dr. Hughes focuses on of three North American extending the Master choirs selected to perform Dr. Hughes received his Singers’ impact on the at the international choral Bachelor’s Degree and community through an festival America Cantat teaching credential from emphasis on multicultural in Venezuela. We have California State University, music and programming toured the Carolinas Sacramento in 1983. He designed to stimulate and participated as the taught music and drama interest among the area’s headliner choir in the Maui for seven years at Bella young people. Regular Choral Festival. SMS sang Vista High School in Fair participation in the World as the only community Oaks and, since 1990, he Symposium on Choral choir invited to perform teaches choir, voice, and Music introduces him to at the American Choral piano at American River the world’s leading choral Directors Association College. He was awarded directors and composers in Reno. We remain his Master’s Degree in of choral music, and he committed to advancing Choral Conducting from responds by programming the art and lifting the soul. California State University, many exciting new works. Sacramento in December

4 Program Notes Jerusalem Luminosa LYRICS BY THOMAS Á KEMPIS; MUSIC BY ABBIE BETINIS Betinis’ Jerusalem Luminosa is an exploration of peace, of true peace through compromise. Listen as the women’s voices ‘play tag,’ as each part constantly tries to catch up with the other, coming together occasionally. Even the 15th century text is altered or compromised as Jerusalem Luminosa becomes Luminosalem and Alleluia is added in to make Luminos’Alleluia.

Alleluia. Alleluia. Jerusalem luminosa, Jerusalem, city of light, Verae pacis visio. Vision of true peace. Alleluia. Alleluia. Totum sanctum, totum mundum, All holy, all elegant, In te quidquid cernitur. Is that which shows itself in thee.

Noël Nouvelet TRADITIONAL FRENCH CAROL; ARR. BY SOFIA SÖDERBERG Exciting counter-rhythms and dynamic contrasts penned by the Swedish arranger Sofia Söderberg make this traditional French carol come alive. Söderberg contrasts homophony and polyphony, and she bounces the melody among the voices in this fresh new setting.

Noël nouvelet, Noël chantons ici. Christmas comes anew, O let us sing Noel! Dévotes gens, crions à Dieu merci! Glory to God! Now leet your praises swell! Chantons Noël, pour le roi nouvelet. Sing we Noel for Christ, the newborn King, Noël nouvelet, Noël chantons ici. Christmas comes anew, O let us sing Noel!

L’ange disait: “Pasteurs, partez d’ici, Angels did say, “Shepherds leave this place, L’ame en repos et le Coeur réjoui: With peaceful souls and joyful hearts: En Bethléem trouverez l’agnelet.” In Bethlehem you will find the little lamb.” Noël nouvelet, Noël chantons ici. Christmas comes anew, O let us sing Noel!

En Bethléhem, étant tous réunis, When they had arrived in Bethlehem, Trouvent l’Enfant, Joseph, Marie aussi! they found the child with Joseph and Mary. La crèche était au lieu d’un bercelet, A manger, instead of a cradle. Noël nouvelet, Noël chantons ici. Christmas comes anew, O let us sing Noel!

“Like” us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Sign up for emails www.facebook.com/ @SingersMaster Text MASTERSINGERS sacmastersingers to 22828 5 O Magnum Mysterium TRADITIONAL LATIN; MUSIC BY RENÉ CLAUSEN This lush, modern setting of traditional Latin lyrics features the choir initially unified on a single note. Gradually, singers split into eight parts, without accompaniment, beginning very quietly and reaching their loudest on the word ‘Magnum’ (great) and gradually become quiet for ‘Mysterium’ (mystery).

O magnum mysterium, O great mystery, Et admirabile sacramentum, And wonderful sacrament, Ut animalia viderent Dominum natum That animals should see the new-born Lord, Jacentem in praesepio! Lying in a manger! Beata Virgo, cujus viscera Blessed is the Virgin whose womb Meruerunt portare Was worthy to bear Dominum Christum. Our Savior, Jesus Christ. Alleluia! Alleluia!

And Lo, the Angel of the Lord LUKE 2:9-14; MUSIC SIR JAMES MACMILLAN With careful observation, the listener can identify seventeen parts divided among three choirs. They split, at times, to represent the Narrator, the Angel, and the Heavenly Host or Angels as they appear to shepherds in the hills with their flocks.

And lo, the angel of the Lord And this shall be a sign unto you; Came upon them, Ye shall find the babe wrapped in And the glory of the Lord Swaddling clothes, Shone round about them, Lying in a manger.” And they were sore afraid. And the angel said to them, And suddenly there was with the Angel A multitude of the Heavenly Host “Fear not: for, behold, Praising God and saying: I bring you good tidings of great joy Which shall be to all people. “Glory to God in the highest, For unto you is born this day And on earth peace, In the city of David a Savior, Goodwill toward all men!” Which is Christ the Lord.

Shepherds, Rejoice! TEXT BY ISAAC WATTS; MELODY BY L. P. BREEDLOVE; ARR. BY CAROL BARNETT With this sturdy folk carol from The Sacred Harp collection, we celebrate the joyful aspect of the Christmas season. The unusual, rather plain vocal quality is a feature of The Sacred Harp, a unique American tradition with roots back to 1770 and which brings communities together to sing four-part hymns and anthems. Of her arrangement, Barnett states, “I have kept the straightforward feeling of the original setting and added a bit of harmonic variation with the use of canonic textures and the Lydian mode or scale. The changing time signatures help to emphasize important words and syllables, while the refrain ‘rejoice’ gives us time to absorb the message of each verse.” 6 Rejoice! Rejoice! Rejoice! Go, shepherds, where the Infant lies, And see his humble throne; Shepherds, rejoice! With tears of joy in all your eyes, Lift up your eyes, Go, shepherds, kiss the Son. And send your fears away; News from the regions of the skies: Thus Gabriel sang, and straight around Salvation’s born today! The heav’nly armies throng; They tune their harps to lofty sound Jesus, the God whom angels fear, And thus conclude their song; Comes down to dwell with you; Today he makes his entrance here, Glory to God that reigns above, But not as monarchs do. Let peace surround the earth; Mortals shall know their maker’s love No gold nor purple swaddling bands, At their Redeemer’s birth. Nor royal shining things; A manger for his cradle stands, Rejoice! Rejoice! Rejoice! And holds the King of kings.

Still, Still, Still TEXT BY MARILYN KEITH AND ALAN BERGMAN; AUSTRIAN CAROL; ARR. BY NORMAN LUBOFF Luboff was a prominent American composer, arranger and choral conductor. He wrote the scores for many television programs and more than eighty movies before founding the Norman Luboff Choir. His beautiful setting of the Austrian carol Still, Still, Still was featured on Mannheim Steamroller’s 1990 Christmas album A Fresh Aire Christmas. The melody is a folk tune of unknown authorship which first appeared in a collection of folk songs in 1865.

Still, still, still, Dream, dream, dream, One can hear the falling snow. Dream of the joyous day to come. For all is hushed, the world is sleeping. While guardian angels without number Holy Star its vigil keeping. Watch you as you sweetly slumber. Still, still, still, Dream, dream, dream, One can hear the failing snow. Of the joyous day to come.

Sleep, sleep, sleep, ‘Tis the eve of our Saviour’s birth. The night is peaceful all around you, Close your eyes, let sleep surround you. Sleep, sleep, sleep, ‘Tis the eve of our Saviour’s birth.

7 O Nata Lux SACRED LATIN TEXT; MUSIC BY MORTEN LAURIDSEN Los Angeles composer Lauridsen wrote this piece as one from a larger work, Lux Aeterna (Eternal Light); all seven of them refer to light in sacred Latin texts.

O nata lux de lumine, O Light born of light Jesu redemptor saeculi, Jesus, Redeemer of the world, Dignare clemens supplicum Mercifully deem us worthy Laudes preces que sumere. To offer prayers and praise.

Qui carne quondam contegi You who once deigned to become flesh Dignatus est pro perditis. For the sake of your lost ones Nos membra confer effici, Grant that we become members Tui beati corporis. Of your holy Body.

Away in a Manger 19TH CENTURY AMERICAN TEXT; MELODY BY W.J. KIRKPATRICK; ARR. BY PHIL MATTSON The melody for this Christmas classic is also known as the Cradle Song and has been given a fresh, updated arrangement by internationally admired composer and arranger of vocal jazz, Phil Mattson.

Away in a manger, I love thee, Lord Jesus! No crib for a bed, Look down from the sky, The little Lord Jesus And stay by my side Laid down his sweet head; Until morning is nigh. The stars in the bright sky Looked down where he lay, Be near me, Lord Jesus; The little Lord Jesus I ask thee to stay Asleep on the hay. Close by me forever, And love me, I pray. The cattle are lowing, Bless all the dear children The baby awakes, In thy tender care, But little Lord Jesus And fit us for heaven, No crying he makes. To live with Thee there.

Christmas Medley ARR. LINDA DAWSON Please join us in this beautiful medley arranged by one of our former accompanists.

Hark! the herald angels sing- Joyful all ye nations rise, Glory to the newborn king, Join the triumph of the skies, Peace on earth and mercy mild, With th’ angelic host proclaim’ God and sinner reconciled. Christ is born in Bethlehem. Hark! the herald angels sing- Glory to the newborn king.

8 Dashing through the snow, (Men) In a one-horse open sleigh, God rest you merry gentlemen, O’er the fields we go, Let nothing you dismay. Laughing all the way. (Women) Bells on bobtail ring, Remember Christ our Saviour Making spirits bright, Was born on Christmas day. What fun it is to ride and sing, A sleighing song tonight. (all) To save us all from Satan’s pow’r (refrain) When we were gone astray, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, O tidings of comfort and joy, Jingle all the way, comfort and joy, Oh what fun it is to ride in a one-horse O tidings of comfort and joy. open sleigh. (Master Singers sing the next verse… (Master Singers sing the next verse… audience join on refrain) audience join on refrain) O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy, O tidings of comfort and joy.

Huron Carol ARR. BY SARAH QUARTEL One of SMS’s favorite arrangements of this carol is that of John Rutter and can be found on our CD How Still He Rests. “I’m glad I found this new arrangement of that haunting tune by Sarah Quartel. Quartel is known for her simple, yet exciting arrangements – this time she includes a shimmering accompaniment that helps us envision the frozen Canadian landscape in which the story takes place.” — Ralph Hughes

Twas in the moon of wintertime The earliest moon of wintertime when all the birds had fled, is not so round and fair, That mighty Gitchi Manitou As was the ring of glory sent angel choirs instead; on the helpless Infant there. Before their light the stars grew dim, The chiefs from far before him knelt And wandering hunters heard the hymn: With gifts of fox and beaver pelt. Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, In excelsis gloria. In excelsis gloria.

Within a lodge of broken bark O children of the forest free, the tender babe was found, O sons of Manitou, A ragged robe of rabbit skin The Holy Child of earth and heaven enwrapped his beauty round; is born today for you; But as the hunter braves drew nigh, Come kneel before the radiant boy, The angel song rang loud and high: Who brings you beauty, peace and joy, Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, Jesus your King is born, Jesus is born, In excelsis gloria. In excelsis gloria.

9 Noel TRADITIONAL KITUBA TEXT; MUSIC BY TODD SMITH; ARR. BY BRAD HOLMES Composer Smith grew up in the African Congo. Recalling music he heard as a child, Smith begins the piece with one voice proclaiming “Noel.” Another answers the call and, ultimately, the choir and percussion joyfully celebrate the good news.

Noel! Noel! Jesu me kwisa ku zinga ti beto. Noel! Noel! Jesus has come to live with us. Kana nge zola ku zaba mwana, If you want to know the Child, Nge fwiti kwisa ku fukama. You have to come kneel.

Ave Generosa TEXT BY HILDEGARD VON BINGEN; MUSIC BY OLA GJEILO This setting of Hildegard von Bingen’s 12th Century Ave Generosa text uses a hauntingly joyful tonality, paying homage to the mysterious story of Mary. A beautiful middle section is surrounded by contrasting beginning and ending sections. The contrast of longer held notes and faster moving lines holds true to the composer’s style, while the harmonic, chordal structure and melodies offer something very fresh.

Ave, generosa, Hail, girl of a noble house, Gloriosa et intacta puella, Shimmering and unpolluted, Tu pupilla castitatis, You pupil in the eye of chastity, Tu materia sanctitatis, You essence of sanctity, Que Deo placuit. Which was pleasing to God.

The Midnight of Your Birth TEXT BY CHARLES BENNETT; MUSIC BY BOB CHILCOTT This carol, one of five in the set, weaves imagery of the natural world with the Christmas narrative. Chilcott’s music is the perfect match for Bennett’s poetry, combining characteristically singable melodies with pleasing harmonic colors, buoyant jazzy syncopation, and tender reflection.

The first is an acorn The fifth is a fox cub underneath the snow. playing in the sun. Second is a berry which soon, Six is a sunset when day, soon will grow. when day is done. Third is a robin who comes to sing. Seven is the snow which cannot stay. The fourth is a blossom to welcome, The eighth is a swan who flies, welcome spring. who flies away.

Out in the fields Out in the fields where the grass grows deep, where the grass grows deep, Under the stars we count our sheep, Under the stars we count our sheep, Small white clouds that have Small white clouds that have come to earth in the midnight, come to earth in the midnight, The midnight of your birth. The midnight of your birth.

10 The ninth is a tree, Out in the fields a tree for you to climb. where the grass grows deep, Ten is a snail who takes, Under the stars we count our sheep, who takes his time. Small white clouds that have Eleven is a star in the evening sky come to earth in the midnight, And twelve is the carol, The midnight of your birth. the carol of your cry.

Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind TEXT BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE; MUSIC BY JOHN RUTTER Shakespeare’s text from “As You Like It,” tells how human insincerity and unfaithfulness are more bitter than even the bitterest elements of nature. Humans are to blame for the worst human sufferings. Perhaps the refrain, “This life is most jolly,” should be considered as sarcasm.

Blow, blow thou winter wind, Freeze, freeze thou bitter sky, Thou art not so unkind, That does not bite so nigh As man’s ingratitude. As benefits forgot:

Thy tooth is not so keen, Though thou the waters warp, Because thou art not seen, Thy sting is not so sharp Although thy breath be rude. As friend remember’d not.

Heigh ho! Sing, heigh ho! Heigh ho! Sing, heigh ho! unto the green holly; unto the green holly; Most friendship is feigning, Most friendship is feigning, most loving mere folly: most loving mere folly: Then, heigh ho, the holly! Then, heigh ho, the holly! This life is most jolly. This life is most jolly.

Silent Night TEXT BY JOSEPH MOHR; TRANSLATION BY JOHN F. YOUNG; MUSIC BY FRANZ GRÜBER; ARR. BY PAUL JOHNSON This traditional Christmas carol — which has been translated into about 140 languages — has been given a smooth, yet jazzy treatment by arranger Johnson.

Silent night, holy night, Heavenly hosts sing, “Alleluia! All is calm, all is bright; Christ the Saviour is born! Round yon virgin mother and child, Christ the Saviour is born!” Holy infant so tender and mild; Sleep in heavenly peace, Silent night, holy night, Sleep in heavenly peace. Son of God, love’s pure light; Radiance beams from thy holy face, Silent night, holy night, With the dawn of redeeming grace, Shepherds quake at the sight; Jesus, lord, at thy birth, Glories stream from heaven afar, Jesus, lord, at thy birth. Christ the Saviour is born. 11 Ave Maria FRANZ BIEBL Biebl uses simple, solo melodies in the chant style of the Middle Ages in between verses featuring multiple choirs. This layering of voices and harmonies builds powerfully to a peaceful ending, making it one of the most beloved pieces by male choirs throughout the world.

Angelus Domini nuntiavit Mariae The Angel of the Lord announced to Mary et concepit de Spiritu Sancto. and she conceived by the Holy Spirit.

Maria dixit: Ecce ancilla Domini, Mary said, “Behold the servant of the Lord. fiat mihi secundum verbum tuum. Let it be unto me according to Your Word.”

Et verbum caro factum est The word was made into flesh et habitavit in nobis. and dwelt within us

Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus tecum, Hail, Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. benedicta tu in mulieribus Blessed are you among women, et benedictus fructus ventris tui, Jesu. and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus.

Sancta Maria, mater Dei, Holy Mary, mother of God, ora pronobis peccatoribus. pray for us sinners. Sancta Maria, ora pronobis Holy Mary, pray for us, nunc et in hora mortis nostrae. Amen. now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer STORY BY ROBERT L. MAY; MUSIC BY JOHNNY MARKS; ARR. BY A. HAWLEY BARRY The story about the most famous reindeer of all — Rudolph — was published in 1939. May, a copywriter at the Chicago-based Montgomery Ward store, wrote it as a promotional children’s book to bring the holiday traffic into his store. Marks adapted the story of Rudolph into a song in 1949.

Rudolph! You’ll go down in history! Then how the reindeer loved him, As they shouted out with glee, Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer, “Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer, Had a very shiny nose; You’ll go down in history!” And if you ever saw it. You would even say it glows; You know Dasher and Dancer All of the other reindeer and Prancer and Vixen, Used to laugh and call him names; Comet and Cupid and Donner They never let poor Rudolph and Blitzen; Join in any reindeer games. But, do you recall The most famous reindeer of all? Then one foggy Christmas eve, Santa came to say; Rudolph! You’ll go down in history! “Rudolph, with your nose so bright, Won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?”

12 Good Ale 15TH CENTURY TEXT; MUSIC BY JOHN RUTTER This is a wassailing song which dates back to the 15th century. The word “wassail” comes from the Anglo-Saxon greeting Wæs pu hæl meaning “be thou hale” — i.e., be in good health. The correct response to the greeting is Drinc hæl, meaning “drink and be healthy.”

Bring us in good ale, Bring us in no mutton, and bring us in good ale, for that is often lean, For our blessed Lady’s sake, Nor bring us in no tripes, bring us in good ale. for they be seldom clean, But bring us in good ale. Bring us in no brown bread, for that is made of bran; Bring us in no eggs, Nor bring us in no white bread, for there are many shells, for therein is no game, But bring us in good ale, But bring us in good ale. and give us nothing else, And bring us in good ale. Bring us in no beef, for there is many bones, Bring us in no puddings, But bring us in good ale, for therein is all goat’s blood; for that go’th down at once, Nor bring us in no venison, And bring us in good ale. for that is not for our good: But bring us in good ale. Bring us in no bacon, for that is passing fat, Bring us in no capon’s flesh, But bring us in good ale, for that is often dear, and give us enough of that, Nor bring us in no duck’s flesh, And bring us in good ale. for they slobber in the mere, But bring us in good ale.

White Winter Hymnal BY ROBIN PECKNOLD; ARR. BY ALAN BILLINGSLEY Pecknold of Fleet Foxes, an indie folk band formed in Seattle, Washington, drew from personal experience in this song about a time when his friends excluded him in middle school. SMS performs the version made popular by singers of Pentatonix, who have added body percussion to their unaccompanied rendition.

I was following the pack, And I turned ‘round and there you go, All swallowed in their coats, And Michael, you would fall With scarves of red tied ‘round their throats, And turn the white snow red as To keep their little heads Strawberries in the summertime. From falling in the snow.

13 Rise Up, Shepherd TRADITIONAL SPIRITUAL; ARR. BY STACEY V. GIBBS This traditional spiritual is thought to have originated in Georgia or North Carolina and was first published in 1867. Songs from this region were usually sung as a call and response with plenty of handclapping and foot-tapping to hold down the rhythm.

There’s a star in the east on Christmas morn, If you take good heed to the angel’s word, Rise up, shepherd, and follow, You’ll forget your flocks, It will lead to the place you’ll forget your herds where the Christ was born Behold the star up yonder, Hallelujah, rise up, shepherd, and follow. Rise up, shepherd, and follow.

SUPPORT FOR THIS CONCERT AND THE SACRAMENTO MASTER SINGERS

announcements program notes, writing, and proofing Barbara Celli and Andrew Smith Caroline Firman, Ann Gilbert, Ralph house manager Hughes, Carol McCormick, Mary Patt, and Jon Tooker Andrew Smith assistant house manager We would like to thank the staff and Marion Randall congregations of First United Methodist our dedicated volunteer ushers Church and Westminster Presbyterian Church for their support and the use of technical support their facilities for this concert, especially Brad Slocum , Grace Ogata, Robert Jennifer Banghart, John McKinney, Tracy Madrigal (Westminster Presbyterian) Bieberly, and Rodney Smith from FUMC. Lighting: Kyra Baldwin www.firstumcsac.org Sound: Cameron Banghart www.westminsac.org (First United Methodist) Eduardo Garza (Harris Center) The Sacramento Master Singers also sms photography & videography thanks the staff and congregation Bruce Patt Photography of Arcade Church for the kindness and Serge Kuzmin Videography generosity of their people and the use of their facilities during SMS rehearsals, sms historian and documentarian especially Brian Clifton, Kelly Frazier, and Jon Hanson Mario Fedrighi. program design arcadechurchonline.com Andrew Smith program printing Master Color Printing

14 Thanks to all our donors! Your invaluable support means so much. Contributions from these generous individuals and businesses help us continue to provide the Sacramento community with world-class choral music at affordable prices. Visit mastersingers.org to learn more about monthly giving, planned giving, and the benefits of corporate sponsorship.

DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE SILVER PATRON SILVER PATRON ($1,500+) ($300-$749) ($300-$749) Alan Boyd Noreen Mazelis Rev. Lucy Bunch Ken & Matt & & Nancy Flagg Barbara Celli Alisha Metcalf Celia Buckley & Arek & Caroline Paul & Marion Randall Firman Diane Miller Stephen & Debbie Hill Chris Goff Stephen Tuttle & David & Kay Goff Gretchen Morgan Dr. Ralph E. Hughes Greg & Marilyn Frank Pajerski & David Temme Gregory Ms. Jeanne Reaves Laurie & Jim Haruko & BENEFACTOR Hanschu Jonathan ($1,000-$1,499) Susan Hoeffel & Sakakibara Dr. Ruth McDonald David & Adam & Janice Bridge Denise Seals “In Memory of Jack Crowell” Dr. Richard and Margaret Jackson Andrew Smith Justin Dal Pozzo Eric & Debra Roger & Brian & Tammy Trombley Kahan Kathy Smith Michael & Worth & Janet Tess Keehn Summers GOLD PATRON Meegan, Hanschu, William & ($750-$999) & Kassenbrock Cathy Zinn Betty Clark Lorraine Van Kekerix Dennis Mangers & Michael Sestak Carol & Paul McCormick Don & Maxine Wreden 15 BRONZE PATRON Donna Fontaine Linda & Dave Rev. Arthur ($150-$299) Fran Coletti Dawson Lillicrapp Barbara Reese & Jean Wu Linda Sweetman Richard & Carol Roger Monty Buckley John & Joyce Lois C. Croft Bill Lewis Schaeuble Marie Lofgren Richard & Prem Turner Bruce & Mary Patt John Klaas Mary Ann Central Valley Giezelman Richard & John, Laura, & Sandra Jenness Community Bank Lauren Lofgren Michael & Ron & Joan Conklin Charlene Morita Jonathan & Ivy Elli Johnston Charles & Diane Williams Ms. Shirley Scott & Jane Owen Bamforth Joy Amulya & Bramham Sheri Jennings Connie Buckley Fredrick Reardon Patricia Rose & Susan McCarthy Daniel & Nancy Larry & Bonnie Barbara Evans Vic Rauch Zuckerman Langdon Paul & Carol Diane Abbey & Lily Sweyd Chrisman Robin Collins

ASSOCIATE Damon Tribble Jim Hargrove Norma Rice ($75-$149) Daniel & Judy Jones John & Mary Peggy Cavaghan Ada Schloeman David & Angela Caicchiolo Peter & Joy Baird Allison Claire Boardman Judith Dalziel Phyllis & Norm Amanda Johnson David Aagaard Julie Brannan Jacobs Barbara Bahler Deirdre Downes Kathleen Anderson Richard & Jacki Ben Adams Dennis & Amber Kay Kasperk Pryor Bill Fuller Fitts Keith Atwater & Roger & Rosemary Bryan Bob & Ann Diane Jurach Jean Vrechek Edmondson Donnie & Phyllis Kelly Dodge Russ & Marilyn Vav Loben Sels Bob Gardner & MacDonald Ken & Vicki Day Sam & Sue Morley Maureen Daly Dorothy Lew & Nancy Cameron & Emily Wooldridge Robinson Sandi Miller Carbrey Edwin Woodrow Linda Iseri Sandra Filby Charles Kelso Gary & Bobbie Keill Melissa Mandeville Stephen & Effie Hanway Charlotte Norton & George & Cathy Michael & Robert Laneau Fleming Katharine Hall Steve & Sheila Epler Cheryl Fuller Hillis & barabara Ms. Susan Carlson Stuart & Gretchen Warren Richardson Christopher & Muffy & Terry Jennifer Enright Jan Summers Francke Susan Carey Claude & Lee Long Janet Feil Myrna Rodriguez Terry Antonelli Curt Hobbs & Janet Olson Nadene Donner & Teruko Matsumura Julie Jenness Janet Walden Victoria Powers Vic & Nancy Matson Cydney Haug-West Jean Iacino Nick & Michelle Warren & Joan Cynthia Moore Jerry & Claire Paul Dunnaway Walker

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MOTETS, MADRIGALS, & MIRACLES Join the Master Singers as we explore two of the most important musical forms in history. Then experience the stunning area premiere of Missa Mirabilis featuring Heidi Van Regenmorter on the organ. First United Methodist Church (21st and J Streets) Saturday, March 10, 2018 at 7:00 pm Sunday, March 11, 2018 at 3:00 pm

SAVE 15% OFF THE REGULAR TICKET PRICE WHEN YOU BUY BOTH SPRING CONCERTS. VISIT WWW.MASTERSINGERS.ORG TODAY!

LISTENTO THE HEART The Master Singers are joined by two-time First United Methodist Church Grammy®-winning (21st and J Streets) Native American flutist Saturday, May 19, 2018 Mary Youngblood, as at 7:00 pm we celebrate musical Sunday, May 20, 2018 expressions of kindness, and at 3:00 pm the search for unity.