PETER SYMONDS ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE AT WINCHESTER CATHEDRAL
Peter Symonds College held its annual Christmas Carol Service at Winchester Cathedral on Monday 9 December. Eight Towuaghantse sang the solo opening verse of ‘Once in Royal David’s City’ at the start of a traditional Service of Nine Lessons and Carols. College brass accompanied the congregational carols and choral compositions from many eras were sung by the three College choirs, with biblical readings delivered by students.
Kelso Choir - the College’s chamber choir of experienced singers - sang works by Patrick Hadley, Walford Davis and Boris Ord. Vocal Ensemble sang the medieval ‘Coventry Carol’ from the Pageant of the Shearmen and Tailors. College Choir sang the Gospel number ‘Hosanna’ by Kirk Franklin, and the Staff Choir sang 'We wish you a Merry Christmas'. College Brass played a selection of music before the service, including Joy to the World by William Himes, and accompanied the carols.
Principal Sara Russell and students Nathan Stickland, Alice Bennett, Christopher Airiemiokhale, Georgina Guterman and Briannah Butler delivered readings. Prayers were said by Reverend Canon Roland Riem, Vice-Dean and Canon Chancellor.
Head of Music Rachel Platt, said: “We are proud to support our college in this annual service, where beautiful music and readings combine to inspire us all. We welcome everyone, of all faiths and none, and we hope the service provides a chance to share meaningful music with families and friends in a break from our hectic schedule. Our students gain so much from performing in the cathedral, as it is such an awe-inspiring and ancient place of worship.
“We are grateful again to the cathedral and clergy for supporting and enabling our carol service to take place.”
Members of Kelso Choir also commented.
Michael Norman said: “I really enjoyed the Carol Service last year, which was spectacular, and I feel privileged to perform these carols in such a wonderful cathedral.”
William Higgs said: “It’s a building and a sound unlike any other to sing in, because of the resonant echo. It means it’s almost Christmas.”
Rainbow Thrussell said: “I’d never performed in a cathedral before. I was really excited to hear how it sounded and to experience the atmosphere.”
This year, the College has chosen to collect charitable donations for the Boaz Project, a small independent local horticultural charity where any donation made will be carefully used to improve the services offered to over 40 adults with learning disabilities. They will benefit from high levels of work supervision in a beautiful, calm, safe environment, in a farm close to Winchester. You can donate via the following link: https://www.boazproject.co.uk/get-involved/donate/
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Posted: 16 December 2024
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