Demopolis Singers to present director’s original work
Ed Rush believes in the extraordinary.
Retired as Minister of Music for the First Baptist Church, Rush now has more time to devote to composing choral music. His talents will shine for all to see when the Demopolis Singers presents his cantata, “An Extraordinary Christmas,” Thursday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m. in the Old School Theater.
Rush got his inspiration for the theme of the cantata from the song “Just Ordinary People,” which he had sung as a solo many times.
“That’s true,” he said. “God has always used ordinary people to do His work.”
As he thought more about God’s use of everyday folks, Rush saw the idea expanded into a major composition. “That could work,” he thought.
After all, he said, “Bethlehem has always been called an insignificant town.” Joseph was a simple carpenter; Mary, a peasant girl, and lowly shepherds witnessed an extraordinary event.
He began in the spring of 2014 to work on the music and sought sources that helped him shape the ideas for the lyrics. In the narration he draws on poems and meditations from other writers as well as using his own words. “I want people to hear the Gospel message.”
As director of the Demopolis Singers, a voluntary post he has held on and off for many years, the biggest challenge is “finding the people who can commit to being here” for rehearsal since most of them are busy people involved in other activities. “This group has worked very hard to put together a program (the audience) not only will enjoy but appreciate.”
The concert will be divided into two parts. The cantata will be featured in the second, along with adaptations of familiar songs and hymns.
The first part will have secular music of the season, with fun pieces, familiar songs and a sing-a-long.
Rush, who plays the trombone, will be joined by several other musicians who will perform other songs of the season. They include Deeya Fitzgerald on saxophone; Janelle Baker, keyboard; Tim Hall, guitar, and Wanda Fuqua, flute.
Demopolis First United Church pastor David Willis will be the narrator for the cantata, and children from his church, directed by Gay Zodun, will join in singing one of the cantata songs.