Allendale UMC
December 5, 2025
Carol of the Bells
Wilhousky’s arrangement, famous for its driving rhythm and layered choral lines, came alive through crisp diction and carefully shaped dynamics. The Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay leaned into the music’s sense of urgency and mystery, allowing the familiar Ukrainian melody to unfold with both intensity and warmth.
People Look East
Courtney’s arrangement, known for its lyrical phrasing and gentle harmonic language, was ideally suited to the chorus’s refined blend and expressive sensitivity. From the opening measures, the singers established a calm, almost reverent atmosphere, allowing the Advent text to unfold naturally.
A Christmas Song
From his first entrance, Martello drew the audience in with a smooth, lyrical tone that immediately established a sense of closeness and sincerity. Quintana’s arrangement offered space for emotional nuance, favoring gentle harmonic support and flowing lines that allowed the soloist’s voice to shine.
The Little Drummer Boy / Peace On Earth
Beaty and McSorley approached the piece with a balance of reverence and emotional honesty. The opening phrases of “Peace on Earth” were shaped with gentle restraint, allowing the message of hope and harmony to emerge with clarity and sincerity.
O Magnum Mysterium
The chorus approached the opening phrases with remarkable control, allowing the Latin text to unfold slowly and clearly. Each chord was carefully balanced, creating a sense of suspension that emphasized the mystery and wonder at the heart of the Nativity text.
Brightest and Best
Lighter, more transparent passages contrasted with fuller, resonant moments, creating a sense of journey within the music. The Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay navigated these shifts with ease, demonstrating both technical control and expressive commitment.
Sweet Little Jesus Boy
MacGimsey’s arrangement complemented Williams’s voice beautifully, blending gentle harmonic support with moments of expressive intensity. The restrained accompaniment created space for the narrative of the song to unfold, highlighting the contrast between the tenderness of the Nativity.
Underneath the Tree
Velasquez embraced these elements fully, delivering the song with dynamic vocals, crisp articulation, and an infectious sense of fun that energized the room. Their performance captured the spirit of modern holiday celebrations while remaining musically polished and controlled.
This Christmas
Each member contributed distinct vocal color while maintaining a cohesive ensemble sound, creating a performance that felt both polished and deeply heartfelt. Their harmonies were tight and expressive, capturing the song’s celebratory spirit while allowing moments of intimacy to shine through.
Jingle Bells Medley
The Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay demonstrated strong ensemble cohesion throughout the performance. Crisp diction, well-balanced harmonies, and confident rhythmic execution allowed the humor of the arrangement to land effectively without sacrificing musical integrity.
It’s Beginning to Look Like Christmas
Attention to phrasing and text brought the lyrics to life, painting vivid images of holiday decorations, shared traditions, and the simple excitement that accompanies the season’s approach. The singers’ expressive delivery made the song feel both comforting and freshly engaging.
A Swingin’ Christmas
The Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay delivered a performance that was both polished and playful. The result was a memorable moment that captured the exuberance, warmth, and celebratory rhythm of the season. Their collective energy made the performance feel lighthearted and infectious.
We Need a Little Christmas
As applause filled the room, it was clear that “We Need a Little Christmas” had done exactly what it promised. Through Volz’s charismatic performance and the chorus’s joyful spirit, the message rang true: when the world feels heavy, a little music—and a lot of cheer—can light the way.
Text Me Merry Christmas
From the outset, The Rainbros established a lighthearted tone that immediately engaged the audience. “Text Me Merry Christmas” is known for its witty lyrics and upbeat style, and Billingsley’s arrangement amplifies those qualities through clever rhythmic patterns and accessible harmonies.
The Man with the Bag
“The Man with the Bag” provided a jubilant and lighthearted counterpoint to more reflective selections. Michael Sugarman’s rendition combined technical skill, theatrical flair, and infectious holiday energy, leaving the audience thoroughly entertained and immersed in the celebratory spirit of the season.
God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen
The ensemble’s precise diction and balanced harmonies allowed the narrative of the carol to unfold clearly.. Dynamic shifts were handled with care, moving seamlessly between darker, more contemplative passages and brighter, triumphant moments.
A Holly Jolly Christmas
As part of “Holly, Jolly, and Gay!”, this performance served as a celebratory highlight, reinforcing the concert’s theme of inclusivity, warmth, and shared happiness. GMCTB honored the song’s nostalgic appeal while infusing it with their own vibrant personality.
Christmas in Killarney
The arrangement’s lilting rhythms and melodic warmth suited Keleher’s vocal style particularly well. He navigated the song’s conversational passages with relaxed ease while leaning into its more lyrical moments with warmth and sincerity.
Gay Apparel and Sing-Along Carols
Musically, the chorus maintained strong ensemble unity while balancing humor with precision. Crisp diction ensured that the altered lyrics and clever transitions were easily understood, while well-blended harmonies kept the sound polished and engaging.
Let There Be Peace on Earth
Steven Florio’s featured role added a personal and expressive focal point to the performance. His voice carried a calm conviction, shaping the opening phrases with clarity and emotional depth. Florio’s delivery emphasized the inward nature of the song’s message, reinforcing the idea that peace begins with the individual.