Lange Choral Ensemble brings Christmas arrangements to St. Paul’s Episcopal

The Lange Choral Ensemble, which has been performing early and contemporary sacred music for the people of Lansing for more than 45 years under the leadership of director Stephen Lange, will host its holiday concert, “Heaven and Earth are Full of Your Music,” on Sunday evening. The performance will feature Advent and Christmas music representative of both Heaven and Earth by numerous famed composers, according to a press release from the group.

“We are into about 47 years with top choral artists and the best director in the world who does a masterful job of selecting the music and leading us to our best performance,” said chorus member Martie Repaskey.

Accompanying the ensemble is Stephanie Gewirtz on piano, Gretchen Morse on oboe and a brass quartet led by Michigan State University College of Music alumnus Jeff Kressler. Kressler, a notable jazz pianist and composer, previously taught at Central Michigan University, Mott Community College and Alma College. He was also the band director for DeWitt High School prior to his retirement. He has written arrangements for several schools and orchestras throughout the country, including the Spartan Marching Band, and has produced many original compositions under Saginaw’s Watchdog Music Publishers.

A special performance of “Stars” by Eriks Esenvalds, featuring the poetry of Sara Teasdale, is sure to be a showstopper. Choral members will play six finely tuned glasses of water for the arrangement.

The chorus has been rehearsing since September, and Repaskey hopes old and new fans alike will find joy in the music the group has worked so hard to get just right.

“I hope they’ll come away inspired and uplifted at a time when our world needs inspiration and uplifting,” she said.