St. Mary's Christmas concert features musicians from around the world

The Women’s and Men’s guilds of St. Mary Star of the Sea put on their annual Christmas concert on Dec. 15 starting at 1 p.m.

This was the first year it was hosted in the church. Each member was asked to bring an unwrapped toy to donate to needy children within the church's diocese.

“It was a more religious experience this year since it was in the church,” said Dell Falcone, a congregant. “The songs they picked, her voice and their instruments together, were absolutely breathtaking.”

The artists of the concert were soprano singer Johanna Davis, cellist Diego Villa and pianist Natalia Van Genderen. 

Davis is a local singer who has performed in seven European countries and is a part of the Choral Artists of Sarasota. Originally from Columbia, Villa studied cello performance at Baylor University and at the Guildhall school of music in London. Genderen is a graduate from Nizhny Novgorod Conservatory in Russia and is currently a concertmaster, accompanist, piano instructor and performer.

Together, these musicians curated an hour-long performance with Christmas carols and hymns for the members of St. Mary to enjoy. Songs they performed included "O Come All Ye Faithful," "Mary Did You Know," "Silent Night" and "O Holy Night." They also led a sing-a-long with the members of the church. Everyone sang together "Angels We Have Heard on High," "Hark the Herald" and "Joy to the World."

Once the concert finished, everyone proceeded to the parish hall to eat light bites and drink refreshments. During this time, the Women’s Guild held the second installment of its annual Christmas Bazaar. People took advantage of the great sales on homemade ornaments, goods, decorations, wreaths and Christmas trees. 

“Our bazaars are the best,” said Falcone. “This Christmas one has so many cute things that you could use as gifts or decorations, but just wait for our March Bazaar. That is the best and biggest one. You can find some really amazing deals.”