Choral ensemble Dolce Canto performs "Serenity and Stillness"

When the choral ensemble Dolce Canto first visited Mineral County, they were a small act with only eight members but on Thursday the ensemble returned over 30 strong to perform there “Serenity and Stillness” holiday show at the Superior Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Jim Goss, of the Mineral County Performing Arts Council, introduced the ensemble  and shared with the packed church that not only would they be “showcasing how they have expanded and what they could do” but that  Dolce Canto Conductor Peter Park has a connection to the community and “brings a lot of experience to the table.”

Goss also shared a humorous anecdote with the audience before the ensemble took the stage.

“My wife looked at the program and thought that it read ‘Serenity and Stiffness,’” Goss said. “But I can guarantee you that this will be anything but stiff.”

Dolce Canto made good on Goss’ promise and the choral ensemble entertained the audience with a variety of holiday themed songs from throughout history – including several songs performed in Latin.

The ensemble utilized lively arrangements of classic holiday songs to add a whole new flare on traditional Christmas music and the highlight of the night came towards the end of the show when Dolce Canto performed an a cappella mash-up of “Jingle Bells” and “Hallelujah.”

“Now we are going to end with two songs that will be familiar but you will never hear the same again,” Conductor Peter Park said.

Toes were tapping and smiles filled the church as two staples of the holiday season were combined in a brand new way.

MCPAC’s next sponsored production will be on Jan. 22 at 7:00 pm and will feature the music of Rob Verdi’s “Saxophobia.” According to an MCPAC flyer, “Saxophobia” is a “jazzy visual and auditory display of unusual saxophones.” The Alberton High School Band will also join Verdi during the show.