*This article first appeared in the Rappahannock Times

On November 26, Marcus Vaughan, Minister of Music for the Beale Memorial Baptist Church and 13 members of the Beale choir performed to a packed house at Carnegie Hall, in the New York premiere of Joseph Martin’s “The Winter Rose”.  Martin, a renowned composer and conductor lead the performance and served as the clinician for the singers’ residency. The performance featured a full orchestra and a professional soloists. 

There were a total of 293 choristers from 26 other ensembles from across he United States and Canada. The performance was presented by Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY), a leading New York City production company with a focus on providing unforgettable concert experiences in prestigious venues. Why was the invitation extended Dr. Jonathan Griffith, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor for DCINY states: “The Beale Memorial Baptist Church Adult Choir received this invitation because of the quality and high level of musicianship demonstrated by the singers as well as the exceptional quality of their audition recording. It is quite an honor just to be invited to perform in New York. These wonderful musicians not only represent a high quality of music and education, but they were ambassadors for their entire community.”

 The choir began practicing for their New York debut in June, with weekly practices and several workshops.Though some regular members of the choir were unable to make the the trip, they were always with the group in spirit. 

The choir and director, Vaughan traveled to NYC the day after Thanksgiving. Saturday and Sunday each included 4and 5 hour rehearsals with composer Martin. Monday afternoon they had their first experience with Carnegie hall for a sound check and rehearsal with the orchestra.

 “It was an honor to perform at such magnificent venue. I am very proud of my choir and I appreciate all their hard work and dedication,” said Vaughan. 

The public is invited to Beale Memorial Baptist Church on Sunday, December 16 at 5pm, as the Beale choir presents, “The Winter Rose” as performed at Carnegie Hall. Beale Memorial is located at 19622Tidewater Trail, Tappahannock, VA 22560.

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