A Christmas Tradition

On Friday, Nov. 30, Texas A&M International University's Department of Fine and Performing Arts presented their 11th annual Guitarras de Navidad Concert at the theatre. The concert featured the TAMIU guitar ensemble, directed by Dr. Gilberto D. Soto and special guests, TAMIU Chamber Singers directed by Dana Crabtree and Harpsichord lead by Dr. Larissa Davis.This concert has been a Christmas tradition in TAMIU for over 10 years now.  

The event presented its audience with a variety of euphonic music, including Christmas songs. TAMIU Classical Guitar Ensemble opened the concert  serenading the audience with Mozart's "Eine Kleine Natchmusik", known in English as "a little night music." Following was the all-time classic by Johann Sebastian Bach, "Brandenburg Concerto No. 6." The next piece was another resonant one by Johann Sebastian Bach's "Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring" and it was accompanied by special guest, Dana Crabtree and the angelic contour of her high pitched singing.

Next, they performed "Concerto in D Major" by Antonio Vivaldi. This piece featured special guest Dr. Larissa Davis, Harpsichord. Right after, the audience went on to enjoy the graceful and gallant sound of "The Boxer" by Paul Simon and then George Frederick Handel's "Fugue in D Major."  The highlight of the night was Prince's beautiful "Purple Rain" as Dr. Gilberto Soto emotion-driven  announced that the performance of this song was dedicated to his daughters who were part of the audience. Continuing with a well known song by Juan Gabriel, "Hasta Que Te Conoci," sounding vividly symphonious. Adding warmth of the Christmas spirit among the audience, they played the Christmas traditional "The Little Drummer Boy." The TAMIU Chamber Singers stepped into the spotlight to sing acapella and to add a spiritual touch with "Abide With Me" and "My Soul's Been Anchored in the Lord." To wrap up the concert, the Chamber Singers and the Guitar Ensemble combined their talents to perform the traditional "Oh Holy Night."

The performers were part of a Guitar Ensemble Class (MUEN 1133 and 3133) offered at TAMIU and taught by Dr. Gilberto D. Soto. This concert was a requirement for the classes and as Dr. Soto mentioned, it is their final exam and it is also to share and embrace a the Christmas spirit with the audience. If you would like more information you may contact Dr. Gilberto D. Soto at 956-326-3046 or email him at gsoto@tamiu.edu.

(Amelia Martinez and Leslie Adame may be reached at a.sibo.mtz@gmail.com & lesflores891@gmail.com)