Hark! Christmas comes early with two choir concerts

The Matakantata Choir will herald the coming of Christmas with two concerts – one in Matakana on Friday, November 22, the other in Warkworth on Sunday, November 24.

The theme this year is ‘Bells are Ringing’ which sees a return to a more traditional set list, after a road trip-inspired performance last year, with more Christmas classics and carols than you can shake a candy cane at.

Musical director Jenny Eirena says it turned out that the choir ended up having lots of songs that had references to bells and chimes, which inspired the idea.

“The music is beautiful and has everything you want in a Christmas concert, beautiful choral pieces, and some jazzy Christmas tunes,” she says.

The choir’s multi-talented accompanist Doctor John Wells, who is also an organist, pianist and composer, has written a new song especially for the occasion, which he will perform on both nights.

“John is a highly acclaimed musician and we have the privilege of having him as our accompanist. He’ll be playing a solo, and he’ll play a piece or two in our concert as well so that’s always something to look forward to.”

Eirena says if you haven’t been to the concert before or are new to attending musical concerts then this is the one for you.

“Listening to recorded music is great. But hearing Christmas music live with beautiful harmonies can be a meaningful experience. The music evokes feelings of hope and joy, with a touch of nostalgia.\

“The Matakantata Choir is creating the space for you to be reminded of this special time of year, to come and experience Christmas in your community.”

If the popularity of the choir’s last Christmas concert is anything to go by, people will be at this year’s event with bells on.

Concerts will be at Matakana Village Hall on Friday, November 22 at 7.30pm, and at Warkworth Town Hall on Sunday, November 24 at 4pm.

Tickets cost $25, gold coin donation for children and are available from events.humanitix.com/bells-are-ringing. They can also be bought at Hart Pharmacy in Warkworth, Gull Service Station in Matakana and at the door.