By: Chris Fischer
There is something about holiday music that resonates with many people. Nostalgia; familiar melodies and chord progressions; themes of joy, new beginnings, and togetherness all play a part.
Redfield Cantata’s “A Noel Celebration” filled the auditorium with joyous sound on Sunday, Dec. 10th. A happy, attentive audience filled the seats.
One rapt, enthusiastic youngster said they “Did good.”
“That’s my mom over there!” he said as he pointed to one of the singers.
Choir director Dale Fiedler said “I am very pleased with the performance. We had a wonderful crowd.”
Kendra Becker, a singer in the cantata, said “It went really well. You could hear all the parts. Everyone knew the music.”
Coordinator Joy Schweitzer said “It was amazing. It put you in the Christmas spirit.”
A cantata is a performance piece for singers and instruments. It was created in Italy back in the 1700s.

The most prolific composer of cantatas was J.S. Bach. The Lutheran church commissioned him to write sacred music.
Eventually, this became the music form we know today. A cantata includes varied songs, recitatives or narration, and a theme throughout. Sacred cantatas are popular for Christmas and Easter celebrations.
Redfield’s cantata has only been going on for 30 years. Schweitzer served as director until Fiedler took over the role 7 years ago. Schweitzer is assistant director/coordinator. Accompanist Carol Lund has been in her role “a long time,” Schweitzer said.
“We really appreciate Carol. Some cantatas have an entire orchestra with them. She did an awesome job playing a complex accompaniment.” she added.
This year, 65 singers participated. “This was our biggest group ever. The churches didn’t have enough room. We will probably hold it in the high school auditorium from now on.” Schweitzer said.
The singers had weekly 2-hour practices for 6 weeks. Many singers were from local churches.
“They are very talented singers, people who love to sing. They joined the group that we put together.” Schweitzer said.
She gave credit to Fiedler. “Dale is a phenomenal leader and director. He brings out the best in the choir.”
Some pieces could be a bit tricky. “The more we practiced, the more we got it – with Dale’s leadership.”
A string and keys ensemble played while the chorus took a break. This consisted of a piano, a keyboard, a bass, and two violins. They played a lovely, soulful medley, which the audience appreciated.
The choir came back for the finale, after which the auditorium erupted in cheer and clapping.
“People showed their appreciation. I heard things like ‘Wow!’ and ‘Amazing,’” Schweitzer said.
A while back, Schweitzer, Fiedler, Lund, and Redfield Area Arts Council President Ray Johnson met to pick out music.
“The music’s a little challenging, a little complex. We have to pick something that will also appeal to the singers.” Schweitzer said.
A free-will donation meal was served after the performance. A “good amount” of money was raised, Schweitzer said. This was split between the Ministerial Association and the Good Samaritan Center.
RAAC sponsored the performance and the meal.