St Mary's Calne
On Sunday afternoon, we gathered in the Parish Church for our annual Festival of Lessons and Carols and what a wonderful event it was! The church was full of candlelight and people – not a seat to be had. We began in the traditional way with the solo rendition of the first verse of Once in Royal David’s City – the honour going to Elyse (UVI) followed by a candlelit procession through the church which set the scene for a memorable festive service.
Readings and carols followed with some beautiful choral pieces performed by the Chamber Choir and the Junior Consort. Of particular note was a new version of The First Nowell by Bob Chilcott. This was commissioned by the Church of England and we were one of many churches and schools across the country where the piece was debuted this Christmas.
Thank you to all the students who read so beautifully and to the students in Chamber Choir and Junior Consort; they have been preparing for the Carol Service since October. A special thanks to our talented Music Department for their work in putting this event together, particularly working with the Brass Band (featuring brass students, Morolayo (UIV) and Belle (UVI), on trombone), and to Mr Joyce accompanying the service on organ.
The Carol Service is always a time for the whole school community to come together and that Christmas spirit was continued in the drinks parties, back in Houses, that followed.
We are pleased to share with you a special recording of the Carol Service, thanks to our wonderful IT Department. Please click here to view – Enjoy!
Merry Christmas to all!
Rev Jonathan Beach,
School Chaplain