“UMW Fall Concert” with University of Mary Washington Chamber Choir
November 15, 2026
Fredericksburg Fall 2026 Concert
Joy!
A season opener that honored every voice.
Our opening program gave voice to the everyday experiences of those who lived through challenge, change, and perseverance. From Blake Morgan’s bold reimagining of This Land Is Your Land to Joni Mitchell’s unforgettable Big Yellow Taxi and the enduring spirituals I’ll Fly Away and Way Over in Beulah Lan’, these works highlighted the strength and spirit of communities across time. Music here served as both a witness to history and a call to unity.
At first glance, a concert titled JOY! might have suggested a lighthearted celebration. And while there were certainly moments that were exuberant and playful, the concert was not about pretending everything was perfect. As I planned it, I kept coming back to a simple thought: there had to be room for joy. Not because life was always easy, but precisely because it wasn’t. Some of our deepest moments of joy existed alongside longing, reflection, and sorrow—and became all the more meaningful because of them.
That idea ran throughout the program. Benjamin Britten’s Rejoice in the Lamb, which we performed with our friends from the University of Mary Washington Chamber Choir, took us on an extraordinary journey from exuberance to suffering and back toward hope. Elsewhere, Gerald Finzi’s My Spirit Sang All Day captured the almost irrepressible joy of love, while Somewhere from West Side Story found beauty and hope even as darkness gathered around its characters. Music by Elaine Hagenberg, Sarah Quartel, Reginald Wright, Tracy Wong, and others explored joy through friendship, possibility, creativity, longing, and simply making music together.
Featured Concert Selections
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Rejoice in the Lamb
Benjamin Britten
- Brooks Kuykendall, Organ
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We Are the Music Makers
arr. Reginald Wright
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The Parting Glass
arr. Sarah Quartel
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My Spirit Sang All Day
Gerald Finzi
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Measure Me, Sky!
Elaine Hagenberg
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Somewhere (from West Side Story)
arr. Robert Edgerton
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Keep on the Sunny Side of Life
arr. Dwight Bigler
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Wide Open Spaces
Sarah Quartel
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JAM! (Jom- Ayuh-Mari!)
Tracy Wong
Moments from this year's performance
Experience the artistry and connection that make each CCF concert unforgettable.
Reflections from our board members
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A wonderful start to our 37th Season
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Reflection by
Private: David Brown
About Joy!
Key Fall Concert On Saturday, September 27, the Chorale performed its fall concert. The repertoire was as varied as possible, with the overarching theme of "Songs of the People." Each…
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Reflection by
Know before you go.
Learn about venues, parking, ticket policies, and accessibility so your concert experience is seamless from start to standing ovation.
Concert Attendance FAQs
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Are your performances appropriate for children? Can I bring the kids?
Yes, and thank you for making choral music part of your child’s life!
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When should I arrive?
The venue will open approximately one hour prior to the posted concert time. Doors into the performance area will open thirty minutes prior to the posted concert time.
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What is your policy on seating for “Late Arrivals”?
We understand that life happens and just appreciate that you’re able to join us. Please wait until a piece is complete before you enter the performance area.
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Is there assigned seating?
Save pews near the front of the venue that may be roped off for use during performances, feel free to select any open seat.
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What should I expect during the performance?
Patrons can expect a 75-minute performance with no intermission. You may hear small ensembles from the Chorale, soloists, local instrumentalists, and other choral ensembles.
Please remember to turn off or silence all electronic devices during the performance.
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Where can I learn more about the pieces being performed?
The Chorale provides program notes and lyrics for each concert. An abbreviated version may be available in the printed program and a QR code will be available so patrons can access the full program from their mobile device. Information may also be available on our website at ccfbg.com/fredericksburg-va-concerts.
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What should I wear to a concert?
You’ll see everything from denim to cocktail dresses. There’s no dress code—wear what feels right to you.
Photography and Video Policy FAQs
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What are your rules and policies concerning photography and video during concerts?
You are welcome to record individual songs for personal use only or take photos without a flash.
Ticketing FAQs
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Do I have to purchase a ticket for my child?
Reduced-price tickets are available for K-12th grade students. Preschool or younger may attend at no cost.
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Are there discounted rates for students/teachers/ military/senior citizens?
We are pleased to offer $10 tickets to students and $15 tickets to residents of our local senior living communities.
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How can I purchase tickets?
Tickets can be purchased on our website or in person. We accept cash, check, card, and standard digital payments.
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Can I purchase tickets by mail or by phone?
If this is a specific need for your situation we would be happy to assist. Please send an email to info@ccfbg.org so we can provide assistance.
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Are tickets refundable or exchangeable?
All sales are final. Your ticket can be used for either performance time on the same day without notice.
Join us for the 2026‑2027 season
Our 2025–2026 season has come to a close, and we are grateful to everyone who joined us throughout the year. We now look ahead to another inspiring season of music and community as tickets for our upcoming performances become available.