Youth Choir will present winter concert

Songs to celebrate America will highlight the Youth Choir of Central Oregon's annual Winter Concert on Saturday, February 1 at 7:30 p.m., at the Bend High School Auditorium.

The concert will showcase two choirs totaling 110 young voices from throughout the tri-county region, including about a dozen from Sisters.

The public is invited.

YCCO's Debut Choir, under the direction of Shirley Van Paepeghem, will open the program. With 60 choristers in grades 3 through 8, the Debut Choir has prepared lively folk songs and traditional spirituals from America, Liberia, and Israel.

Artistic Director Beth Basham's Premiere Choir will follow with a varied program of patriotic, pops, spirituals from the old South, classical music, and even the blues. They will showcase several American composers and one European classical master. The Premiere Choir has 50 members in grades 6-12.

In a combined finale, the Debut and Premiere Choirs will surprise the audience with a well-known song from America's recent past.

Tickets are now available for both performances. Prices at the door will be $7-$9 adults and $6-$8 seniors and youth under 10. A $1 discount is offered for advance purchase through www.ycco.org or the choir office at 385-0470.