Women's Ensemble plays

Artistic director Jennifer Tibben-Lembke, accompanied by pianist Carol House, will lead the Sierra Women's Ensemble's 16 singers in an assortment of classical and contemporary works Sunday Dec. 5.

This season marks the group's 19th year of performing in Northern Nevada and California and will feature a concert in Carson City as well as Reno to showcase their uniquely blended sound.

J. S. Bach's duet from "Cantata No. 78" is a fitting opening production. A journey from medieval times to the present will include Don Michael Dicie's "O Sacrum Convivium," based on a haunting plainsong theme, and two modern pieces by Alfred Burt who designed lilting and joyful carols as Christmas gifts for friends.

The intricate weavings of John Rutter's "Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day" provide a fresh approach to this English traditional carol and, with the beautiful "Jesu, dulcis memoria" by UNR Music Department chair Dr. Michael Cleveland display the breadth of range this ensemble possesses.

Completing the program, Benjamin Britten's "A Ceremony of Carols" will feature noted harpist Beverly Colgan and guarantees a rousing, enthusiastic experience. The group finishes with their now traditional performance of Jackson Berkey's "Still, Still Night," a splendid arrangement of the beloved traditional carol "Silent Night."

The Sierra Women's Ensemble will present this program at 3 p.m. at the Brewery Arts Center and again on Sunday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. at Trinity Episcopal Church in Reno. Tickets are $10 general admission and $7 for students/seniors. Call 323-6090.