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Siberian Solstice in the news!
The Crescent-News · Friday, November 25, 2011
Area musicians present uplifting Christmas story
By JACK PALMER
palmer@crescent-news.com
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A varied mix of creative and talented area musicians has reprised its dynamic and unique gift for the Christmas season.
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The popular group "Siberian Solstice" presents "The Angel's Gift," an uplifting Christmas story with the music of nationally renowned Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) on Thursday at 7 p.m. in Schomburg Auditorium on the Defiance College campus.
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They will also perform Dec. 4 at 6:30 p.m. at Defiance Christian Church and Dec. 18 at 6:30 p.m. at Ney Church of God.
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The Schomburg Auditorium performance has a $5 admission charge. There is no admission for the two church performances, but a free-will offering will be taken.
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"Our music and a good deal of the narration reflect what TSO does, with our own thoughts and emotions added in," said group member Tom Sprague, who serves as lead singer and narrator. "We play traditional Christmas music and other classical pieces with electronic keyboards, drums and guitars."
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Most recently, Siberian Solstice has performed at the Huber Theater and Opera House in Hicksville and St. Paul Lutheran Church in Defiance. The first raised funds for the Hicksville Relay for Life and the second generated funds for Christmas for Kids.
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Besides Sprague, other group members are Dr. Dave Deal and Marie Moore, keyboards; Dr. Jeff Montgomery and Kevin Peters, guitar; Dave Coonrod, bass guitar; and Steve Parker, percussion.
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Time Vargo serves as sound technician and Fran Coonrod handles lighting and programs.
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"Our music format of traditional Christmas music and other classical pieces is enjoyed by all age groups and it has a great message," said Sprague. "In addition to telling the story of the birth of Christ, it's about family, love and caring for one another. It's a powerful Christmas message - I can look out and see the faces of people in the audience with tears in their eyes."
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Many know Sprague as a rock-singing crazy elf in several popular local nightclub bands, or as the painter of the large murals in several buildings in the Defiance community. Others know him from his role as a graphic designer.
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"Sprager," as he is affectionately known by his friends, is a retired teacher from Ayersville and Defiance schools.
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"We are always looking for new venues outside of Defiance," said Sprague.
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For more information about the group, visit www.siberiansolstice.com.
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