From the Artistic Director

Friends,

When I was growing up, the holidays were a time of togetherness in my family. Although we had little money, my brothers and I didn't comprehend the extent of our family's financial situation. What I did know, was that my parents were intent on creating experiences and traditions that celebrated the holidays together. When we were young, "together" meant our immediate family and my Aunt Cheryl's family. As we got older, my parents expanded "together" to include our friends and the people who were closest to us throughout the year.

I remember my parents laughing while I stood on a ladder with my friends Becky and Abby, as we haphazardly hung lights on the trees in our front yard. The vision I had in my head was FAR from reality when we had finished. To this day we still laugh about the "Who tree." I remember baking cookies, making chocolates and, being Polish, pinching pierogis with my friends and family. The the kitchen was covered in flour and various colors of decorative accents, all while we used every dish in the house. If you ask anybody who has seen me bake as an adult, they will confirm not much has changed. We watched holiday movies together, we listened to holiday music together, and we prayed together. And, on Christmas morning, my friends showed up to our house after they had finished with their own family traditions, and they joined ours. 

Tonight we will share Dickens' beloved tale of a lonely man who discovers the life-changing power of love, friendship, and togetherness. When I had the idea of programming Scrooge! the Musical as our holiday concert, my mind filled with the thoughts of including friends and family. We reached out to the chorus and invited them to include their own children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and students in this performance. For some, it is the first time they will share the stage with their loved ones. For me, it is the beginning of a new "together," and with it, a bright future for our community.

As I've grown into an adult, I've discovered the struggle of commercialism during this time of year. I've experienced the loneliness of coveting material things. It is times like that when I remember the holidays of my childhood, and I know it isn't what I have, but who I have in my life that counts the most. That includes all of you! During this holiday season, I wish you all happiness as we celebrate the joys of life together. Thank you for making Saginaw Choral Society a part of your holiday traditions and thank you for being a part of ours.

"God bless us, everyone!"

Musically Yours,

Jeremiah J. Kraniak