Class Act ensemble opens for the Judy Collins Christmas show

November 30, 2006

The Christmas season doesn't feel like it has arrived until we experience the first of many frosts, eggnog and of course, a Christmas concert full of traditional holiday classics.  University of Wisconsin-Whitewater choral ensemble Class Act will open this year's Christmas show featuring Judy Collins at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 7.   

Under the direction of Professor Brian Knutson, Class Act will perform "A Holly Jolly Christmas" and "Baby It's Cold Outside" arranged by award-winning composer Kirby Shaw.  They will also perform "Noche de Paz," a Spanish rendition of "Silent Night" arranged by the Venezuelan composer Cesar Alejandro Carrillo.  Accompanying the ensemble on piano will be UW-Whitewater senior Jayne Lubke.

Not only will Class Act open the show, but it will also accompany Collins in a variety of well-known selections such as "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" and "Amazing Grace." 

Class Act is a select ensemble of approximately 20 student singers who perform jazz, swing and musical theatre in concerts both on and off campus.  In addition to these performances, Class Act also takes annual tours during the spring semester.

In an impressive career spanning over 40 years, Judy Collins has thrilled audiences worldwide with her unique blend of folksongs and contemporary themes. Her music has been described as creating hope and healing that lights up the world and speaks to the heart. Her song, "Both Sides Now" has been entered into the Grammy's Hall of Fame winning "Song of the Year" at the 1975 Grammy Awards. Called "a voice of liquid silver" by the New York Times, Collins has remained a constant in American music through four decades and still continues to influence yet another generation with her artistry.