Oratorio performing a variety of American folk song

NEWTON — “Sixteen Tons,” “Oh! Susanna,” “Sweet Betsy from Pike”... how long has it been since you have heard these classic American songs?

These and many more will be the focus for the next presentation of the Sussex County Oratorio Society. The concert will take place on May 4 at 7 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church in Newton. Other selections include: “The Blue Tail Fly [Jimmie Crackcorn]” “Black is the Color of My True Love’s Hair” as well as modern favorites such as “ If I Had a Hammer” and “ Blowin’ In the Wind.”

Artistic director Al Kopacka says the theme was inspired by a recent PBS broadcast highlighting Pete Seeger, the Weavers and other American folk music genres — music that helps define the American experience.

Local fiddler Dave Rimelis will join the ensemble on a number of selections. Rimelis has a wide variety of musical experience from shows with fiddlers like Mark O’Conner or Fiddlin Cluade Williams to backing up salsa legends like Johnny Pachecho, Jose Fajardo, and Larry Harlow. He performs Jazz, Blues, and Rock on electric violin as well as traditional acoustic styles such as Celtic, Cajan, Bluegrass, Old Time and Western Swing.

Rimelis has won several fiddle contests in the tri-state area and has also played countless pop/folk/county/Latin and Jazz recordings as well as film scores and commercials. Piano, guitar and string base round out the accompaniment.

As the oldest established singing group in Sussex County, the Oratorio has a long tradition of bringing quality choral music of all varieties to listeners in the area. The 50+ members represent the wide range of talent found in Sussex County and surrounding areas.

Tickets can be purchased at the door, $15 for adults and $10 for seniors and students.

For more information contact Al Kopacka at 908- 850-1179 or our Web site: www.sussexoratorio.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy a remarkable collection of American folk songs.