What a fantastic event this proved to be!
Occasions, Reading Male Voice and A440 filled Reading Minster with a festive feast of carols, jollity and seasonal togetherness!
The three choirs sang both individual and joint items which resulted in a lovely variety of sound and a good measure of musical camaraderie. Particular moments to be remembered were the infectious merriment of ‘Felix Navidad’ by Reading Male Voice and the exquisite beauty and magical ‘ppps’ of Occasion’s ‘Away in a Manger’ (Normandy version). A440’s ‘De Virgin Mary’ added jazzy calypso rhythms and we gave ‘The Angel Gabriel’ surround sound with distant sopranos floating their melodies from the back of the church. The Minster was jam packed with audience cordiality and congregation songs raised the roof as Christmas carols were sung by all. What a truly joyful time we had!
This annual event raises funds for the Minster’s Sanctuary* charity and although the final sums are not quite complete, we are hoping this year’s concert had raised over £1200 for this very worthy cause! Well done and thank you to everyone, with special mention to Jacqui V, whose drive and commitment makes this whole occasion the success it is!
*The Sanctuary charity opens the Minster to provide a place of safety and support for vulnerable people in the late and early hours at weekends.
Looking forward to the next one already!
