Esther Goshorn, Staff Reporter
Monterey County is bringing the holiday season to its residents. They come in different packages, Christmas concerts, Jazz concerts, Christmas tree lightning, and plays. Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) is hosting all the events except the annual Christmas tree lightning.
On Dec. 5, at 7:30 p.m., MPC is hosting the Winter Jazz Concert.
“If you like jazz, this concert will perform be-bop, big band repertoire, Brazilian classics, which all are arranged for big bands,” stated Barbara Smallwood, creative arts division manager for MPC. The concert will take place at the MPC music hall. The admission is FREE.
Following the Winter Jazz Concert, Monterey is having their annual Christmas tree lightening. Adding to the holiday fun, the event will also include “the Monterey Community Band, The Colton School Choir, Santa, and the Mayor of Monterey County,” said Cindy Vierra, recreation community services manager for the city of Monterey. This holiday event will take place on Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. and admission is FREE.
The Christmas tree lightning event is an event that brings CSU Monterey Bay students and Monterey residents together. “It is a chance for students to join the community and welcome the holiday events,” added Vierra.
On Dec. 9, at 2 p.m., MPC is also hosting the Winter Concert. “This concert will consist of the MPC concert band which will play all the holiday favorites, standards, and new works,” said Smallwood. Admission is FREE for students and for seniors. For adults, admission is $8. This holiday concert brings out the fun holiday spirit for everyone “It will be a fun concert. You will enjoy winter music, holiday music,” added Smallwood.
Additionally the Nutcracker will be on stage at MPC. The play will be hosted by MPC, but will be put on by the Dance Kids of Monterey County (DKMC). This performing arts group was started in 1993 as a non-profit organization.
The DKMC purpose is to enlighten a younger generation and instill self-confidence through performance arts.
“I urge young people to grow in the different disciplines of theatre and dance,” said Carol Richmond, artistic director for DKMC.
DKMC is an organization that wants to sustain an environment of performing arts for everyone in Monterey County, especially for the young generation. “[Ballet is] an important way to see cultural and ethical differences,” said Carol Richmond. “[It is] a wonderful way to experience expertise and growth.”
Last, but not least, MPC will host is the Monterey Community Band Concert. This concert will be held on Dec. 16. at 2 p.m. and admission is FREE. This concert will play favorite holiday classics hat are prefect for all ages.
“If you love music, they will be playing holiday music. It is a family event for all ages,” Vierra. “[It is] another way celebrating the holiday season.”
Monterey County is featuring many other holiday events. For more information go to this website: <http://www.montereyinfo.org/page/07holiday/> To see what else that Monterey County has to offer.
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