CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY POPS!
My husband and I recently attended the JCSO Christmas Holiday Pops concert, which was held at the Johns Creek United Methodist Church, (JCUMC) on Medlock Bridge. This was our first full experience attending the symphony in Johns Creek. The symphony performed along with the very polished Johns Creek Chorale.
The venue is absolutely beautiful but, it is a sanctuary and not a concert hall. This is an issue because the room is furnished with very narrow, uncushioned church pews. The seating was very uncomfortable and really puzzling when you consider that this is a relatively modern space, with a very mature audience. During intermission, everyone "had to" stand up just to stretch their backs and adjust. I can honestly say that I have not sat on pews like these in decades and would only expect to see them in a very old building. Ironically, our performances are usually held in restored historic theaters, with much better seats.
The performances were top-notch and I was super impressed with the chorale which is now in its second year. When it comes to Christmas music, I want it traditional and nostalgic. I want to know that I am at a CHRISTMAS concert. The first portion of the concert was dominated by unfamiliar selections and interesting arrangements which affected my ability to stay engaged. During intermission, I chatted with a couple of women who commented on the unfamiliar music and lack of energy during the first half of the performance. I agreed. However, following intermission the concert picked up significantly with more familiar and energetic selections. By far the most exciting performance was that of Sleigh Ride which included great special effects and reminded me of the type of performance you would expect from a more youthful orchestra.
When it comes to Christmas performances, I tend to prefer those that are performed by youth choirs and orchestras because the energy is great and you always come away with that feeling of nostalgia and great memories of Christmas's past. Regardless of the genre of music, I like being snatched up and taken away to a point where nothing else matters. The last great Christmas performance I attended was performed by the Chattanooga Boys Choir and they had me from beginning to end. I still remember the tears streaming down my face as they were performing. It was an incredible five-star performance.
During their next Christmas performance, I hope that they consider a more comfortable venue and a more traditional selection of music. Meanwhile, I will still support the Johns Creek Symphony. However, that support is more likely to be at a summer concert in the park where I can bring my own comfortable chair!
***We were still feeling that back ache this morning! read more