Voices of Appalachia Concert Sells Out, Brings Holiday Music to West Union

Voices of Appalachia filled the sanctuary of the West Union First Presbyterian Church on December 5 with a program titled Wonder and Joy, marking a notable moment in Adams County cultural life. Formed in fall 2024, the ensemble has nearly doubled in size in just over a year and presented a program featuring 41 singers and 28 instrumentalists in a lineup of thirteen arrangements that blended familiar carols with Appalachian selections.

The concert program included seasonal standards such as The Little Drummer Boy, Angels We Have Heard on High, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, and Joy to the World alongside Appalachian rooted carols I Wonder as I Wander and Brightest and Best. Instrumental accompaniment expanded this year to a string quartet, brass quintet, hand bell choir, saxophone, flute, piano, organ, and multiple percussionists, adding depth to the arrangements and reinforcing the ensemble's goal of producing a rich concert experience.

Organizers moved to a ticketed system this season as attendance grew, and First State Bank served as the distribution site. All available tickets were claimed prior to the performance, though organizers noted that patrons without tickets could be admitted if open seats remained when doors opened. Rehearsal intensity was high, with singers meeting since late October for two hour Sunday rehearsals and additional six hour Saturday sessions as the concert approached. Group rehearsal totaled roughly 22 hours, requiring members to learn parts independently between sessions.

The rapid audience growth and full ticket distribution signal tangible economic spillovers for local businesses and sponsors. The concert received underwriting and support from the Adams County Arts Council, the Adams County Community Foundation, Burns Excavating, Clough Pike Veterinary Clinic, Jeff Crask, First State Bank, Greene Chiropractic Center, Steve and Linda Stepp, Tomahawk Pizza, and Winchester United Methodist Church. The West Union First Presbyterian Church hosted rehearsals and provided meals during extended practice sessions.

For Adams County residents the concert represents more than seasonal entertainment. It demonstrates how modest investments in community arts can expand participation, attract visitors, and circulate local spending during the holiday season. The combination of a sold out program, diversified sponsorship, and cross generational participation suggests continued momentum for local music initiatives, and points to opportunities for future capacity increases and broader community programming.

Contact information for the West Union First Presbyterian Church is 206 N. Pleasant Street, West Union, Ohio 45693. E Mail [email protected]. Call 937 544 2391. Fax 937 544 2298.