9am & 11am Choral & Orchestra Christmas Musical Presentation
Go Sing It On The Mountain by Pepper Choplin
Learn more about the musicians below!
Philip Nichols - Accompanist
Philip is honored and excited to be a part of the music ministries at Arcola UMC. Born and raised in the United Methodist Church, Philip started playing piano with his local praise band when he was in middle school. Including accompanist positions and volunteer work, he has been playing in the Church for over 10 years. Philip holds a B.A. in Piano Performance from West Virginia University and a M.M. in Piano Performance and Literature from Florida State University and currently teaches piano from his home in Herndon, VA. His hobbies include playing Bach, DIY projects, and cooking.
Raffie McEachin - Pianist & Double Bassist
Raffie is a student composer and performer. He is an Interlochen Alum and Fromm Foundation Fellow, and his works have been premiered by festivals as well as at recitals during his time at Interlochen. As well as being a classically trained pianist, he also performs in the DC Youth Virtuosi as the principal double bassist.
Rev. Tianna Durbin - Minister of Worship & Arts
For twelve years now, I’ve had the honor of shaping Worship and Arts Ministries at Arcola, and every now and then a piece comes along that feels like it sings straight to the heart. Go Sing It on the Mountain is one of those gifts of the season—a cantata overflowing with hope. I’m thrilled to help bring it to life with our choir and orchestra ensemble! My prayer is that its message will bless every heart that hears it and remind us all of the hope Christ brings. Welcome to our world, Holy Child!
Julie Kemp - Violinist
Julie Kemp began playing the violin at age 7 and played through high school. She returned to playing in her 30s and has enjoyed playing with McLean Orchestra, Arlington United Methodist, Orchestra and St. John’s United Methodist Church in Springfield and of course Arcola!
Margaret Jones - Violist
Margaret has played the viola for 5 years and the violin for 12 years, and been a member of the Independence High School Chamber Sinfonia. She’s excited to share her love of stringed instruments in the celebration of the Christmas season!
Grace Johnson - Violinist
I have been playing my violin for 9 years now, and I’m currently playing with my school orchestra at Independence High. I am very excited to be part if the Christmas Eve presentation for Arcola Church.