7:00 - 8:30 pm, Dec 19, 2015

Saint David of Wales Episcopal Church, 2800 SE Harrison St, Portland, Oregon 97124

The Welsh Society of Oregon (WSOR - formerly the Welsh Society of Portland) is again sponsoring a concert event to celebrate Christmas with a Welsh flavor, bringing together Welsh and Celtic music and a reading of a classic Welsh Christmas tale.   Admission is free, and donations are welcome.

The concert will begin with the WSOR Festival Chorus presenting traditional Welsh carols and Christmas songs, sung in both Welsh and English.  Then, continuing a longstanding Portland tradition, Jonathan Nicholas will give a reading of Dylan Thomas’ much-loved tale “A Child’s Christmas in Wales.”  In addition, the concert will feature two musical special guests:  Celtic harpist Noah Brenner will captivate with his unique approach to the instrument, and Celtic Fusion Band Beltaine will take the stage for a set of their lively tunes.  The Festival Chorus will end the concert with some seasonal songs and sing-alongs (including “Deck the Hall” like you’ve never heard it before!).  The evening program closes with an invitation to everyone to enjoy a Welsh “Tea” - with Welsh cakes and other delicious treats.

The Festival Chorus draws on the rich traditions of choral singing in Wales, long known as “the land of song.”  Originally founded to perform at the annual hymn-singing festival (or Gymanfa Ganu as it’s known in Welsh) held at Bryn Seion Welsh Church every year, the Chorus now performs at events year ‘round.  They are led by Dr. Jamie Lynn Webster, who also directs the Chautauqua Community Chorus and the Portland Revels’ ViVoce Women’s Ensemble.

Noah Brenner is a Eugene-based celtic harpist known for his engaging performances and storytelling.

Beltaine is the Northwest's premier Celtic Fusion band featuring hammered dulcimer, guitar, accordion, and marimbula.  They offer a unique blend of musical styles inspired from Celtic, folk, rock, classical, jazz, and blues sources.

Jonathan Nicholas is an author, journalist and avid storyteller.  He wrote a column for The Oregonian for 25 years.

The Welsh Society of Oregon celebrates and perpetuates Welsh heritage, culture and music in Oregon and the Northwest.  The WSOR is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.