VILLAGE OF LIVERPOOL – The Silverwood Clarinet Choir, now in its 17th year, is set to mark the occasion with a 14-piece ensemble that harmonizes the voices of a genuine choir. Founded by Ken and Kathy Freer of Manlius, the group, comprised of instrumentalists from Oswego, Onondaga, Madison, and Cayuga counties, captivates audiences with original compositions and arrangements spanning diverse musical genres from around the globe.
Under the direction of Syracuse City School District music instructor Frederick Willard, the clarinet choir is scheduled to deliver a complimentary concert at 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 17, at the Liverpool Public Library.
Known for opening their performances with a delightful composition spotlighting the seven clarinet families, the ensemble introduces audiences to “Silverwood,” a composition by British radio producer Luke Whitlock. Commissioned by the choir itself, this lively piece has become a distinctive calling card for the band, offering a friendly and engaging musical conversation rather than a cerebral exercise in music theory.
“Silverwood” unfolds with rippling rhythms, declaratory hellos, celebratory huzzahs, and good-natured chuckles punctuated by startling stop times. Each of the 14 musicians, spanning from the wailing E♭ sopranino to the roaring contrabass, contributes to the cheerful melody, showcasing their individual talent and enthusiasm. Whitlock’s composition not only highlights the musicians’ skills but also underscores an exceptional team spirit, elevating SCC above standard chamber groups.
Ranked among the world’s top clarinet choirs, alongside renowned groups such as Toronto’s Wychwood Clarinet Choir, Los Angeles Clarinet Choir, Rochester’s New Horizons Clarinet Choir, and England’s South Wales Clarinet Choir, the SCC boasts a diverse repertoire from classical to popular. Performances may include classics like Debussy’s “Ballet from Petite Suite” and Prokofiev’s “Overture on Hebrew Themes,” as well as seasonal favorites like “Reindeer Rag,” “Parade of the Tin Soldiers,” or “A Christmas Jazz Medley.”
Conductor Frederick Willard, whose professional journey includes collaboration with Broadway orchestrator Michael Gibson, has an impressive portfolio. Notable works include “Fractured Fairy Tales: The Musical,” “A Remarkable Story: Voices of Pan Am 103,” and “Desdemona: A Play about a Handkerchief,” featured at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Willard’s musical influence extends globally, having toured Singapore, Colombia, Brazil, and the Eastern seaboard as a musical director and keyboardist.
The upcoming performance on Sunday marks the conclusion of the library’s fall concert series, “Resounding Reeds,” which showcased saxophones and clarinets. The series, supported by a state grant administered by CNY Arts, has been a resounding success, highlighting the library’s commitment to bringing diverse musical experiences to the community.
