The First United Methodist Church was filled with the warm sounds of Christmas music that resonated through the sanctuary from the Lincoln County Choral Society Monday night.

The group has been practicing for two hours every Monday night since Labor Day for their first concert that will be Dec 1 at 7 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church.

The choir is being led by Jens Oliva who has been directing high school choirs and church choirs for over 16 years. With the help of his wife and choir administrator, Laura Oliva, they have been able to found the new non-profit community choir.

“I just knew the talent was here, and that’s why I decided to put it together,” said Jens Oliva. “It’s gone pretty well. I think you’ll be able to hear.”

The choir will be performing Bach’s “For Unto Us a Child is Born”, four Rutter’s pieces: “O Come O Come Emanuel,” “Shepard’s Pipe,” “Oh Holy Night” and “Candle Light Carol.” They will be accompanied by an orchestra and Steve Russell on the organ. Soloists include Tenor Steve Huey, Soprano Joy Johnson and base/baritone Patton Rice.

“These people have come together because they love music. They love singing, and they love working on challenging pieces,” said Laura Oliva. “It’s coming together nicely, which is amazing.”

 

Tickets are $5 for adults and $1 for students and can be purchased from choir members or at the door.

Both Jens and Laura Oliva said because there has been so much support, there will be more concerts to come in the future from the Lincoln County Choral Society.