A Harmonious Christmas High Tea Extravaganza with Luminata Voices
As the festive season approached, the anticipation in the air was palpable, and nowhere was it more evident than at the enchanting Christmas High Tea event featuring the captivating Luminata Voices Women's Chamber Choir. The setting, at Jubilee Hall in Parnell, was one of warmth and camaraderie as the audience were welcomed to the venue by a quartet of singers singing traditional carols. Tables adorned with delectable treats, Christmas decorations, and steaming cups of tea set the stage for an afternoon of delightful surprises, musical wonders, and the sharing of heartfelt joy.
The auditorium buzzed with excitement as the sounds of Luminata Voices wafted in from the foyer, instantly capturing the attention of the eager audience. The opening piece, "Hodie Christus Natus Est," a liturgical Latin gem by Agneta Sköld, with soloist Celia Aspey-Gordon announcing the message of ‘good news’, showcased the choir's impeccable a capella prowess, setting the tone for an extraordinary performance.
Choir members entering the hall, Maria Casey, Irena Angelovska, and Sarah McNabb.
The choir, resplendent in voluminous gold skirts, made a grand entrance, signalling the beginning of a magical musical journey. The first half unfolded seamlessly, with "All On a Silent Night" featuring the talented Rachel Wells on cello. This, and the rest of the programme, also featured Cathy Bennett on the digital piano.
Choir member Alison Dunlop transitioned from the alto section to play the oboe in the next piece, "Do You Hear What I Hear." This musical gem, composed by Noel Regney and Gloria Shayne and arranged by Craig Courtney for the 2016 Capital University Christmas Festival, featured a captivating accompaniment of piano and oboe, cleverly substituting for the alto saxophone. The piece seamlessly wove refrains and references to traditional tunes and carols, including "Kings of Orient," "Angels We Have Heard on High," "What Child Is This" (set to Greensleeves), and "O Little Town of Bethlehem."
A change in tone followed, with a captivating solo rendition of "In The Bleak Midwinter" by soprano Celia Aspey-Gordon, accompanied by the haunting melodies of piano and oboe. The haunting melody and lyrics draw the audience to reflect on the simplest yet truest gift of all, love.
The first half continued with a mesmerizing array of musical treasures. "Season of Light" by American composer Jacob Narverud illuminated the auditorium with its festive spirit, followed by the enchanting "This Endris Night" by Canadian composer and educator Sarah Quartel. David Kay and Cathy Bennett played a set of handbells in this piece, and a unique and heartwarming moment unfolded as a solo quartet, featuring Kirsten McNeill Scouller, Sarah McNabb, Savannah Feyter, and Judy Dale, beautifully sang the words of Baby Jesus.
Alto Jessica Wells closed the first half by performing a beautiful solo piece, Zwei Gesänge by Johannes Brahms, with piano and cello accompaniment. It was written by Brahms for his friends, Joseph Joachim and his wife the contralto Amelie Weiss.
A sweet interlude in the form of delectable treats marked the midway point, allowing the audience to savor macarons, Christmas Mince Pies, scones, chocolate Cake with Cherry cream, and lemon tarts. The choir returned for the second half, bringing a fun and lively energy that contrasted with the earlier thoughtful and contemplative pieces. The surprise costume change, from gold to black with festive red, fur-trimmed capes, elicited gasps of delight from the captivated audience.
A quick group selfie in the green room before the start of the second half.
Accompanied by David Kay on drums and choir member Rhianna Maker on bass guitar, the choir belted out crowd-pleasers like "Jingle Bell Rock" and the classic "White Christmas," ensuring everyone was bopping along. The audience became an integral part of the performance as they joined in singing beloved carols, creating a shared sense of holiday merriment. The alto section took centre stage to sing the melody of “Sleigh Ride”, with the sopranos providing delightful accompaniment.
The concert concluded on a contemplative note with "The First Noel," arranged by Dan Forrest, leaving the audience with a lingering sense of awe and gratitude. In the spirit of giving, attendees had the opportunity to contribute to Shine, the refuge charity, underscoring the true meaning of the season.
As the final notes resonated through the air, the audience was left with hearts full of joy and a shared appreciation for the magic that unfolded during the Christmas High Tea with Luminata Voices. Each piece was a masterful blend of traditional and contemporary, creating a rich tapestry of Christmas spirit that resonated throughout the room. This enchanting event not only celebrated the beauty of the season through music but also exemplified the spirit of unity, generosity, and the joy of giving. A truly memorable Christmas celebration that will be cherished by all who attended.
