This December, the Marquette Choral Society will present "Winter Delights," a concert featuring John Rutter’s Magnificat as its centerpiece. We recently had the pleasure of talking with Dr. Erin Colwitz, the Choral Society’s musical director, who shared her insights into this festive and meaningful performance.
Dr. Colwitz emphasized that while Christmas-themed music is a staple of holiday celebrations, Rutter’s Magnificat provides a fresh and invigorating take. “The Magnificat offers a classical twist on a Christmas text,” Dr. Colwitz explained. “It goes beyond traditional carols with its lush harmonies and complex musical passages.” This particular work, which celebrates Mary’s iconic words during her visit with Elizabeth (from the Bible's Gospel of Luke), is known for its celebratory and majestic tones. The ensemble will be accompanied by a chamber orchestra, featuring strings, organ, and a French horn. “Acoustically, this fits perfectly in Reynolds Recital Hall,” Colwitz noted, adding that the smaller orchestral arrangement maintains the grandeur of Rutter’s composition while remaining suitable for the performance space.
The concert will highlight soloist Amanda Boundy, a soprano who trained at the Peabody Conservatory and has recently returned to Marquette as an Adjunct Assistant Professor with NMU's Theatre and Dance Department. “Having such talent back in our community is truly a gift,” Dr. Colwitz shared, expressing her excitement over Boundy’s contributions to the performance.
Alongside Magnificat, the concert will feature a range of seasonal pieces, reflecting Colwitz’s own diverse choral experiences. Drawing on her professional background with the Dale Warland Singers, she has curated a repertoire that steps beyond the familiar Christmas carols. Among these selections are modern arrangements of Ave Maria by Javier Busto and Alf Houkom's The Rune of Hospitality, an evocative piece accompanied by acoustic guitar performed by Ryan Dart. “These works embody themes of welcoming, kindness, and shared humanity,” Dr. Colwitz said. “It’s about creating a space where everyone can reflect on what it means to be a community, especially during these times.”
The discussion moved to how choral music can connect people from different backgrounds and perspectives. “Singing together transcends differences,” Dr. Colwitz reflected. “In rehearsals and performances, our humanity shines through, regardless of age, background, or belief. That’s why I’m so passionate about what I do.” She highlighted the beauty of exploring music from various cultures and traditions, reinforcing the idea that music can serve as a bridge for understanding and empathy.
Listen to Kurt Hauswirth's interview with Dr. Colwitz:
For those who wish to engage in traditional caroling, Dr. Colwitz announced a separate community event focused on gathering to sing hymns and holiday favorites. “This event is open to everyone—no experience necessary,” she said. “It’s simply about coming together and finding joy through song.” The Christmas Carol Singalong takes place at St. Michael Catholic Church in Marquette on Friday, December 20th at 5 pm, with free admission and donations welcomed.
The "Winter Delights" concert will be held at Reynolds Recital Hall on Saturday, December 7th at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, December 8th. Audiences can expect a captivating blend of Rutter’s challenging masterpiece, contemporary choral works, and performances that celebrate the spirit of the season.
Public Radio 90 will present the Marquette Choral Society's concert "Winter Delights" as a special edition of Peninsula Performances. This special program airs on Friday, December 20th at 8 pm EST with a rebroadcast on Tuesday, December 24th at 1 pm EST and is hosted and produced by WNMU-FM's Kurt Hauswirth.
We thank Dr. Colwitz and the Marquette Choral Society for their ongoing collaboration and support of Public Radio 90.
Visit marquettechoralsociety.org for more information.
