A Classical Christmas at St. Cyril of Jerusalem Catholic Church
A Joyous Celebration
The congregation at St. Cyril of Jerusalem Catholic Church in Encino, California, enjoyed a special treat on Christmas day with a classical music program, "Carols with St. Cyril Choir and Orchestra." The half-hour interlude was part of the church’s schedule and featured eight carols from the 16th century to modern adaptations of chants, performed by the orchestra.
A Diverse Repertoire
The choir sang most of the songs in English, with two in Latin and one, "Cantique de Noël," in French. The diverse repertoire catered to a wide range of tastes and ages, making it a delightful experience for all attendees.
A Little Concert
"It’s like a little concert," said Vicky McCargar, a 7-year choir member at St. Cyril. "People come early for the music." This sentiment was echoed by the packed pews, filled with parishioners eager to enjoy the festive atmosphere and beautiful music.
The Star of the Show: The Pipe Organ
The parish’s Rosales Pipe Organ Op. 23 was played by William Beck, the parish’s music director. The pipe organ is an integral part of the church’s traditional classical music program, providing atmosphere and mood that fits the bill.
A Festive Atmosphere
The mood was festive and joyous, with the church decorated to the max for the 12 days of Christmas. According to McCargar, "St. Cyril’s is one of the few places where composers such as Tallis, Bach, and Mendelssohn can still be heard, all year long."
Conclusion
The "Carols with St. Cyril Choir and Orchestra" program was a wonderful way to celebrate the Christmas season, bringing together music, community, and faith. It is a testament to the rich musical heritage of St. Cyril of Jerusalem Catholic Church, which continues to thrive through its classical music programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the theme of the Christmas program at St. Cyril of Jerusalem Catholic Church?
A: The theme was "Carols with St. Cyril Choir and Orchestra."
Q: How long was the classical music program?
A: The program lasted approximately half an hour.
Q: What was the repertoire for the program?
A: The program featured eight carols from the 16th century to modern adaptations of chants, sung in English, Latin, and French.
Q: Who played the pipe organ during the program?
A: William Beck, the parish’s music director, played the Rosales Pipe Organ Op. 23 during the program.
