After a demanding and musically varied Michaelmas Term, it was a huge pleasure to sit back and witness the Choir's impressive performance during the Christmas Carol Services.
One of the benefits of such a long Michaelmas Term has been that it has given the Choir time to develop quite significantly following a large exodus of Upper Sixth pupils in the summer of 2011 and this was particularly apparent during these services. Director of Chapel Music Simon Taranczuk made an inspiring choice of music; a nice blend of traditional and less well known carols, all performed with precision and elegance.
Perhaps the highlight for me was Jesus Christ the Apple Tree, arranged Poston, which was exquisite and superbly led from the front by Ellen Arkwright (MM U6). We were also treated to a second rendition of O Magnum Mysterium by Lauridsen (previously heard in the Advent Carol Service), which is such a beautiful piece one can't really hear it enough.
The timing of this service coincided with the release of the Chapel CD to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the College Chapel, all of which rounded off a superb year for the Choir in 2011.
Mr P T Dukes