The Community Chorus presented another delightful performance of holiday favorites Tuesday night at First United Methodist Church, bolstered by an unexpected appearance from pianist Landry Duvall.
One of the highlights was a medley of “Let it Snow” and “Winter Wonderland” where the audience joined in to sing the final verse. It was part of an energetic and well-received show.
“I think the chorus was pleased with how they performed and I think the audience enjoyed it too,” said director Donna Campbell. “It’s something we enjoy doing every year.”
Duvall was pressed into action when regular pianist Judith Roney became ill and had to visit the emergency room. Her health was a major concern.
“I’m still following up on the causes of what went wrong and have another doctor’s appointment today,” Roney said yesterday. “I’m disappointed I made a commitment and wasn’t able to fulfill it. If I start out to do something, I want to finish it and I would have but this was beyond my control.”
Campbell said at first she didn’t know the severity of Roney’s illness. She initially thought she had just stepped outside for some fresh air.
“When I realized she wasn’t able to come back, Landry was called into action,” said Campbell. “He was just expecting to sing but he played most of the second part of the concert.”
Duvall, a junior at Carson-Newman College where is majoring in church music and organ performance, said his initial reaction was not to play because of his unfamiliarity with the music.
“She asked me twice,” said Duvall. “I first said absolutely no. The second time I thought, you only live once. I had seen that music only once at that was at dress rehearsal. I knew I had to do it so I just sat down and went.”
For his efforts, Duvall received a standing ovation. Starr McVey also played a song on piano.
Campbell says the Community Chorus has been performing for over 20 years, although not consecutively.