Two chances to hear the Valley of the Moon Chamber Ensemble this weekend

The Valley of the Moon Chamber Ensemble is performing an evening gala concert on Saturday, Dec. 16 and a holiday benefit concert, “Spreading Joy,” on Sunday, Dec. 17. As in past years, all proceeds from the concerts will benefit the Sonoma Community Center’s arts and cultural education programs.

Valley of the Moon Chamber Ensemble is kicking off its 11th season with music both old and new. The concerts provide musical offerings from Renaissance masters George Kirbye, Di Pier-Luigi da Paleastrina and others, as well as interpretations of traditional holiday favorites. They will also include selections by notable 20th and 21st century artists such as Eric Whitacre, Morten Lauridsen, Z. Randall Stroope and many in between.

Valley of the Moon Chamber Ensemble is a grassroots consortium of local voices. Co-directed by Brian Sebastian and Beth Carter, the ensemble’s benefit concerts offer a range of traditional and contemporary choral music.

The Ensemble’s Gala Concert will be held at Jacuzzi Family Vineyards at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16. The concert includes a reception with wine and hors d’oeuvres.

Following the gala, a Sunday afternoon concert will be held at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church at 3 p.m. on Dec. 17.

Tickets and more information about the Valley of the Moon Chamber Ensemble and the Sonoma Community Center is available online at sonomacommunitycenter.org, by calling 938-4626, or in person at the Center’s office at 276 E. Napa St.