Christmas carols and refrains play a central role in heralding the approach of the festive season, yet they needn’t necessarily be the much-sung traditional carols sung at Carols by Candlelight at locations across Australia.
Under the baton of experienced musical director, Deirdre Sutherland, the Manning Valley Choral Society (MVCS) has selected and refined a program of Christmas music to cater for all tastes, aiming to stir participants and audiences alike in preparation for Christmas Day.
Pieces as diverse as the classical Chorale No. 35, Rejoice and Sing, from Bach's Christmas Oratorio, and the haunting soprano solo How Beautiful are the Feet from Handel's Messiah, merge with contemporary offerings such as Caravan of Love and Breath of Heaven, all memorable in their diversity, yet united in their joyful affirmation of the return of the Christmas season.
It has been suggested that music plays a key role in how we experience Christmas each year, and that songs shared by a choir provide a quintessential Christmas experience.
As children, we are exposed to the carols and folk music of an era, influencing our feelings and responses to this once-a-year day. With memories, variety and exultation in mind, this MVCS choral performance boasts a myriad of local talent, with featured solos from MVCS members Jacqueline Roetman, Kerry White, Tony Pike, Paul McDonell, and the pure, sweet tones of Francesca Plentiger, winner of the 16 Years and Under Championship at this year's Taree Eisteddfod.
MVCS's youngest member, and talented rehearsal pianist, Cameron Waugh, will also delight audiences with his interpretation of Mozart's Twinkle Little Star Piano Variations.
With appropriate readings to enhance the music and message of the choral selection, Manning Valley Choral Society invites everyone to be a part of a truly glorious musical encounter to commence their Christmas celebrations.
'Sing the Joy of Christmas' will be performed at two locations:
- St Alban's Anglican Church, 6 St Alban’s Place, Forster on Saturday, December 1 starting 7pm
- Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 75 Albert Street, Taree on Sunday, December 2 starting 7pm.
All tickets $20 at the door.
For inquiries, please contact the assistant secretary, Ruth Crossman on 6553 9561.
