On December 9 & 10, Calgary’s award-winning Spiritus Chamber Choir is set to bring you a mesmerizing concert experience with a concert titled, Of the Heavens. This concert promises to ignite the holiday spirit and immerse you in the timeless magic of the season.
At the heart of this celestial journey is the ancient liturgical tradition of the Magnificat, one of the eight oldest Christian hymns. Renowned composers such as Monteverdi, J.S. Bach, and Rachmaninoff have beautifully set this piece to music. In this concert, Spiritus will present a version by Arvo Pärt, a renowned Estonian composer known for his minimalist and spiritually infused musical style. Pärt's Magnificat reflects his deep religious convictions, offering listeners a tranquil and introspective experience through spare yet emotionally rich musical expressions.
But the celestial odyssey doesn't end there. Spiritus will also present the luminous tradition of classical and contemporary Christmas Carols including The First Nowell arranged by Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo, Seek Him That Maketh the Seven Stars by English composer Jonathan Dove, and A Christmas Carol by Canadian composer Zachary Wadsworth. These melodies, like the warm flicker of candlelight, will create a magical atmosphere, capturing the true essence of the holiday season.
As an added treat, Spiritus will be joined by the Spirit Choir, a new young adult choir founded by Andrea Ciona, Artistic Director of Spiritus Chamber Choir, and Calgary soprano Amanda Hillestad.
Embrace the timeless charm of Christmas with these two exquisite choirs, and be wrapped in the joyous spirit that permeates this festive time of year.
Of the Heavens will take place at 7 p.m. on Saturday, December 9 and at 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at Christ Church Elbow Park (3602 - 8 Street SW, Calgary).
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Founded in 1995, Spiritus Chamber Choir has been recognized both nationally and internationally for their high-quality performances, musicianship, and unique collaborations. Known for diverse programming, Spiritus continues to receive national and international recognition, with broadcasts on CBC Radio Two, the Healey Willan Award from the Canada Council (2013 & 2017), the Heinrich Schütz Perpetual Trophy at the Fleischmann International Trophy Competition in Cork, Ireland (2014), and more.
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