Four Professional Musicians from Bridgeport to Be Featured in Area Holiday Concert with Maestro John Collins
By Trina Runner on December 24, 2018
Although musical performances are abundant this time of year, it is unusual to have professional musicians from all over the United States gather together for a holiday concert that is free to the public. On December 28, Maestro John Collins will be conducting the concert, which will be held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Weston. Among those performing are four professionals with ties to Bridgeport High School.
Currently a math teacher at BHS, Kathy Cox was selected by the director to be a part of the choir and will be a featured soloist in “Away in
the Manger.” Cox graduated from Bridgeport High School in 1988. Her sister, Cindy Weidman, who graduated from BHS in 1980, will also be among the performers. Former BHS band directors, John Christian and David Nuzum will be featured in the concert as well.
As a professional conductor, Collins has connected with musicians from all over the world. In this production, performers have traveled from all over West Virginia, as well as from Tennessee, Texas, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Each musician was interviewed, selected and given the music prior to the four group practices. The concert is in collaboration with the West Virginia University School of Music and has been six months in the making.
Collins arranged one of the songs that will be featured in the concert and has worked with assistant conductors, vocal coaches and an entire team to ensure the concert is of the highest quality, featuring musicians that hold professional degrees in music. The concert is held annually and is a traditional presentation that will also showcase a full orchestra. A harpist will be accompanying the choir in Benjamin Britton’s “Ceremony of Carols” and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir’s version of “The First Noel” will be among the holiday songs performed.
The concert will be held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church on Center Avenue in Weston. It will begin at 5:45p.m. on Friday, December 28, and last till approximately 7:05p.m. Admission is free but an offertory will be taken during the performance. Attendees are advised to arrive early, as the 500-seat capacity of the church will fill quickly.
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