TORRANCE — Two of Muskoka’s most enduring musical figures are teaming up for a festive evening of Christmas music next Wednesday at Zion Presbyterian Church.
“Feel the Christmas Spirit,” set for Dec. 17, at 6 p.m., brings together pianist Jack Hutton and bass-baritone Darryl Hollingsworth, a duo whose friendship and musical partnership stretch back decades.
Hutton, 92, needs no introduction. Widely regarded as a Muskoka musical legend, he remains best known for his long-running Friends summer concert series at the Gravenhurst Opera House and decades of performances that earned him a reputation as a Muskoka musical legend.
Hollingsworth, whose unmistakable deep bass voice has anchored choirs, resort stages and lounge acts across Muskoka, previously served as musical director at Muskoka Sands and performed for years at Deerhurst Resort.
The pair recorded a successful CD, Ragtime Meets Black Gospel, more than a decade ago — a release that became a strong regional seller and cemented their collaborative chemistry.
Their collaboration produced the well-received CD Ragtime Meets Black Gospel more than a decade ago, a recording that became a strong regional seller and showcased the synergy between the two performers.
For next week’s show, Hollingsworth will open with Harry Belafonte’s Caribbean carol “Long Ago in Bethlehem.” Organizers say the evening’s program is aimed at delivering “music of the season that will fill your hearts with warmth and joy.”
The concert concludes with hot cider and sweet treats, offering a festive finish to a nostalgic night of holiday music.
Organizers say audiences can expect an uplifting, heartwarming mix of seasonal favourites.
The concert concludes with hot cider and sweet treats, offering a festive finish to a nostalgic night of holiday music.
“Music of the season that will fill your hearts with warmth and joy.”
“A memorable musical experience for your Christmas calendar.”
“Hutton and Hollingsworth bring decades of Muskoka music history to the stage.”
Mark your Christmas calendar for this heart-warming event in Torrance.Darryl and Jack this summer at the Opera House in Gravenhurst. PHOTO Mark Clairmont MuskokaTODAY.com
