Christmas Concert

A Christmas concert at St Andrews operatic society is always going to be a treat.  Performing in the beautiful St Andrews church in Roker, an utterly stunning venue and easily the vocally strongest group in my district, it was a pleasure to attend and listen to some of the most beautiful traditional Christmas carols.  I’d heeded my warning from secretary Gilly and attended dressed snug and warm in the show, bearing a cushion for the church pews and thoroughly enjoyed my evening.

The choral arrangements were accompanied by organist Colin Wood which of course sounds incredible with the acoustics of the church itself.  The vocal arrangements were really incredible, controlled and well-rehearsed presenting a professional level choral arrangement.  Absolutely beautiful.

Favourite but not as oft heard carols were performed such as “Once in Royal David’s City”, “Away in a Manger”, “Gabriel’s message”, “While Shepherds Watched” and “Good King Wenceslas” for example to name a selection, where the audience were encouraged to sing along and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves doing so.

Lux Arumque especially was stunning, the control musical director Ken has over the arrangements and presentation is on another level. I’d never heard the piece before and what an utterly beautiful piece of music.  It was like being transported to the Vatican.  Highly recommended for a listen.

We also had variety, with gospel readings, poems, sing along carolling and an organ solo, we had a wonderful evening complimented of course by the hot mulled wine being served as refreshments with mince pies.

A wonderful way to get into the Christmas spirit.  Thank you so much St Andrews, a truly beautiful evening.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.