MEMO to Hold 'Joy to the World' Singing Contest on Nov. 29

Singers are always needed for the annual MEMO tree lighting and carol sing on the first weekend in December, however this year brings a new excitement with a "Joy to The World" singing contest to commemorate Lowell Mason, 1792-1872 –  one of Medfield’s most famous sons and the composer of the well known Christmas carol, "Joy to the World."

The contest winners, from two categories, will be judged at auditions on Tuesday, Nov. 29. The contest is open to soloists in Grades 1-6 and in Grades 7-12 and duets and ensembles grades 1-12.

The auditions will be held in the band room at from 7-8 p.m. All entrants must be Medfield residents, well-rehearsed and registered with written parental permission by the night of the audition, Nov. 29. They also must be available to perform before a live audience on Dec. 2 at Baxter Park.

All singing performances must either be a cappella or with portable instrument, such as guitar, played by the singer. Selections must be any well-known holiday song from one to three minutes in length. The judges plan to select two contestants in each category to perform on stage at the Holiday Tree Lighting. 

Winners will receive an award certificate and receive local media attention.  Registration forms may be obtained at JTTWcontest@gmail.com. There is no fee for registration and no late entries will be accepted after the auditions.

The Medfield Employers and Merchants Organization is the sponsor of the early December events, including the town wide holiday lighting – the switch for the Christmas tree lights will be turned at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2. 

A lottery will be held to choose Santa’s Elves to ride on his sleigh on Saturday, Dec. 3 at 1 p.m. as well as the singing of Christmas carols.

MEMO, the Medfield Employers and Merchants Organization, is the local business organization for Medfield. It consists of more than 70 members whose business is located in the town or serves the residents. Proceeds of its annual fundraising events such as Discover Medfield Day and Medfield History Day are used defray expenses incurred with the holiday events, the summer concert series at the Gazebo and to purchase flags flown to honor Medfield residents serving in the armed forces.

 In addition, individual members often add their business sponsorship to help defray costs of these events as well. Membership information may be obtained by contacting cathleen@beginningyears.com.