Hundreds attend choral society Christmas concert in cathedral
The Carlow Choral Society conducted by Blánaid Murphy performing during their ‘A Choral Christmas’ concert in the Carlow Cathedral. Photo: michaelorourkephotography.ie
THIS year’s Carlow Choral Society Christmas concert in the Cathedral of the Assumption was attended by over 400 people, Catherine Cross, Carlow Choral Society chairperson, said.
“There are many Christmas concerts that are on at this time of the year, but to hear traditional Christmas carols, particularly the ones by Ruttle, that are fully orchestrated, is unusual,” Ms Cross said.
The concert featured 70 singers from the society, a full orchestra and four guest soloists â soprano Katy Kelly, tenor Jacek Wislocki, alto Sarah Richmond and bass James Connolly. The musical direction for the concert was done by Bláthnaid Murphy, who is a well-known interpreter of the choral works of JS Bach.
The first half of the concert featured Bach’s classical celebration of the Christmas story, while the second half featured Christmas carols. The audience was asked to sing along for God Rest Yee Merry Gentlemen, Hark! The Herald Angel Sing and O Come All Ye Faithful.
“The repertoire was very well received by the audience, many of whom said this was the best concert they have been to,” Ms Cross said.
The society will next appear in concert tomorrow, 20 December at The Glory of Christmas at The Helix.
