All Is CalmAll Is Bright

Welcome to “All Is Calm, All Is Bright,” Forte’s December concert in our 15th season. We are delighted you are here to join us and our wonderful guests on this special evening. In a break with tradition we are featuring both the spoken word and songs of the season. Intentionally focussing on the Christmas season and the reading of the nativity story we are also matching them with readings from alternative sources marking similar themes common across traditions. Indeed, all of what we will read and sing this evening shares the common themes that are universal and point to the quest of all people for peace, joy and quiet expressed most clearly at this time of year.

You will see that the choir has grown this season as we welcome several new members. Most likely there are new audience members as well joining us MVY� [OL� ÄYZ[� [PTL�� (� ZWLJPHS�welcome to you to the Forte family. We hope that this evening will be one of many more to come. Over P[Z� ÄM[LLU� `LHYZ� -VY[L� OHZ�continued to grow in many

ways with each season being a critical step in a great journey. That growth continues to be inspired by our director Edward Connell who marks his 10th anniversary with us this evening. His tireless efforts on behalf of the chorus remain second to none. His distinct way of turning challenge into opportunity makes membership in the choir a lot of work but also a tremendous joy for which members and audience can all be grateful.

We are especially grateful to our guest readers and our accompanists. They come from a large range of public life. We thank each and every one of them for the special contribution this evening.

Performing is the joy of all who you will see ‘on stage’ tonight. That joy is impossible without you, our audience and supporters. Thank you for all that you our supporters do both tonight and throughout the year.

Every blessing to all in this Season of Seasons

Stuart Watson

President

ContentsAbout Forte | 2

From the Music Director | 3

Acknowledgements | 4

Donors | 5

Special Guest Bios | 7

Programme | 13

O Come, O Come Emmanuel | 15

In the Bleak Midwinter | 15

Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes | 16

Good King Wenceslas | 17

Carol of the Drum | 18

President’s Message - Dec 2011

forte-chorus.com | 2

Forte came together in 1997 after the 3 founders attended a Gay and Lesbian Chorus Association (GALA) festival in Tampa and simply fell in love with the sound of a men’s chorus. For the next 14 years, Forte has consistently entertained with an annual Holiday/Winter show, followed by a Spring concert or cabaret series, as well as touring and participating in many community events such as [OL� 6MÄJPHS� 7YPKL�>LLR� -SHN� 9HPZPUN� JLYLTVU �̀� HUU\HS�AIDS Vigil, national and international choral festivals, and performing with artists such as Margaret Cho, Billy Newton Davis, and Mary McCandless.

Forte is now a 36-voice men’s chamber choir under the SLHKLYZOPW� VM� ,K^HYK� *VUULSS�� VUL� VM� *HUHKH»Z� ÄULZ[�choral directors. Its membership is drawn primarily from Toronto’s talented and diverse gay community.

In 2008, Forte was a National Semi-Finalist in Choral �� [OL� IP�HUU\HS� *)*� 5H[PVUHS� 9HKPV�*HUHKH�Competition for Amateur Choirs, and a National Finalist in the 2010 National Choral Competition!

Wayne BallChristopher Brown

Pablo CalderonKenneth Chu

Peter KrochakPeter Nielsen

Steve Pigliacelli

Alex ElliottBrian FultonPatrick Lam

Alex MozoPeter Mutnan

Dan ScottColin Tan

Jarlen CadenPhil DoironFarrell Hall

Tony HamillEric Lahey

Trevor McLainCarlos Meléndez

Tom SpenceJean Claude Ting

Rick Vaughan

Alvin GomezJeremy Lim

Glenn MosherStewart Montgomery

Mark Le MessurierDrew Post

Tyler SchulzStuart Watson

Lawrence Wraith

Tenor 1Tenor 2

Baritone

Bass

Music Director Edward ConnellAbout

Find us on Facebook under Forte - The Toronto Men’s Chorus. Like our page to get the latest news and information on upcoming concerts.

President Stuart WatsonMembership Tyler SchulzMarketing Ken ChuVP Artistic Peter KrochakTreasurer Patrick LamVP Fundraising Christopher BrownMember-at-Large Tony Hamill

boardmembers

3 | forte-chorus.com

From the Music Director3LNLUK�OHZ�P[�[OH[�[OL�ÄYZ[�-LZ[P]HS�VM�3LZZVUZ�HUK�Carols took place on December 24, 1880, the

brainchild of the Bishop of Truro, who planned it as

a means of keeping local men out of the pubs on

Christmas Eve.

True story or not, we’re delighted you’re not in the

pubs tonight, and have instead joined us for All

Is Calm, All Is Bright. These two themes, one of

peaceful contemplation and goodwill, the other of

True Light coming into the dark, are hardly restricted

to the Christian festival we now call Christmas.

Throughout the ages, celebrations surrounding the

darkest days of the year have held to similar themes.

Today, around the world, diverse cultures celebrate

^P[O� MLZ[P]HSZ� Z\JO� HZ� /HU\RRHO�� 9HTHKHU��Kwanza, Yuletide, Solstice and a host of others, all

celebrating peace on earth, goodwill to all, and the

great day that dawns.

Mr. Connell has been the

Music Director of Forte—The

Toronto Men’s Chorus, since

2002. During his tenure, he

has led Forte through several

highly-successful concerts,

[V\YZ�HZ�MHY�HÄLSK�HZ�6[[H^H�and Vancouver, and deep

into the realms of classical

music. Anyone listening to

the chorus will immediately

recognize the artistry and

personality of his extraordinary

musical leadership, which has

led to Forte’s reknown in the

Canadian choral world.

The brainchild for tonight’s event came from Forte’s president, Stuart Watson, himself a

Catholic priest of generously ecumenical leanings. As Forte makes its way through a wide

selection of familiar and unfamiliar seasonal selections, we know that our understanding of

the music, and indeed of the season, will be greatly illuminated by the generous and gifted

individuals who join us to read from traditional and non-traditional sources, and who play

so beautifully upon horn and pipe and string and drum.

And afterward, please feel free to repair to the local pub, and raise a pint or two to the

NVVK^PSS�VM�[OL�O\THU�ZWPYP[��[V�WLHJL�VU�LHY[O��HUK�[V�[OL�SPNO[�[OH[�ÄSSZ�[OL�^VYSK�

Edward Connell

Perform in incredible places.

Work with and meet very interesting people...

Audition for Forte!

Yes... we want you!

Auditions for the 2012 season will take place on

January 3 and 4, 2012*

For more information, go to: www.forte-chorus.com

To book an audition date & time, please e-mail: [email protected] or speak with any chorus member

*Alternative audition dates can be arranged if necessary.


Acknowledgements and Special Thanks

The Gentlemen of Forte invite their guests to join them for a post-concert reception at the Churchmouse and Firkin, (corner of Church and Maitland Streets).

�� *+�[HISL� �YHMÅL�[PJRL[Z!�Paul McCrossin Gloria Mucci, Barbara Pigliacelli, Graceanne Poloni, Mayura Rajan, Terry Ryan, Walter Sherman, Brent Southin, and Boo Thompson

�� -YVU[� VM� OV\ZL!� Sandra Carmona, John Currie, Micheline Montgomery, and Yan Montgomery

�� .YLL[LYZ!�Randy Mulrooney and Tanya Schrek

�� <ZOLYZ!� ;OL� Z[\KLU[Z� VM� [OL� Cawthra Park Secondary School for the Performing Arts: Olivia Frasson, Kenene Gallant, Zack Hamilton, Chris Jones, Michael Lobovsky, Arjun Sawhney and Harry Vetro; with Jody Malone, staff liaison

�� Jarlen Caden, for providing social media advice and design of this programme

�� Vince J. Ciarlo, for his publicity services

�� Ian Kirkland & striped maple Web Development, for their web design and development services

�� Mark Le Messurier and Carlos Meléndez, for their graphic design services

�� Dylan Neild, for providing sound/audio & lighting for this evening’s program

�� Medlar Productions Film Crew, for video-capturing this evening’s program

�� Metropolitan United Church, for use of accessories

�� Raymond Tizzard, Managing Director, True North Brass, for providing Forte with the accompanying brass ensemble heard this evening

�� Moses Znaimer, founder ZoomerMedia, for his great contribution to our marketing program

Forte would like to thank the many individuals who helped to make this evening possible. While we try to acknowledge everyone who has contributed, we realize that some may have been missed and apologize for this oversight.

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the basket you want to win. Keep the other half to prove

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Gift Basket Raffle

If any donors were overlooked we sincerely apologize but please know that your donation is sincerely appreciated.


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Special Guest Readers & Musicians Bios

A native of Yugoslavia, Aleksandar Antonijevic studied at the National Ballet School in Novi Sad and joined The National Ballet of Canada in 1991. He has been a Principal Dancer since 1995.

Mr. Antonijevic has danced in most of the major works in the company’s repertoire including principal roles in Giselle, 6ULNPU��9VTLV�HUK�1\SPL[��;OL�:SLLWPUN�)LH\[ �̀�3H�:`SWOPKL��Manon, The Seagull and numerous George Balanchine IHSSL[Z��PUJS\KPUN�(WVSSV��+PHTVUKZ�HUK�9\IPLZ�MYVT�1L^LSZ��Theme and Variations and Stravinsky Violin Concerto. He has danced lead roles in Opus 19/The Dreamer, the second detail, Forgotten Land, Etudes, Alice’s Adventures in >VUKLYSHUK�9\ZZPHU�:LHZVUZ�HUK�*OYVTH��/L�OHZ�JYLH[LK�ZL]LYHS� ZLTPUHS� YVSLZ� PU�^VYRZ�I`� 1HTLZ�2\KLSRH�� PUJS\KPUN�

Prince Ivan in The Firebird and Siegfried in Swan Lake.

An accomplished international guest artist, Mr. Antonijevic has performed with English 5H[PVUHS�)HSSL[��0UV\L�)HSSL[�1HWHU��)HSSL[�:HU[PHNV�VM�*OPSL�HUK�7(*;�)HSSL[�:V\[O�(MYPJH�HUK�OHZ�WHY[ULYLK�THU`�VM�[OL�̂ VYSK»Z�ÄULZ[�WYPTH�IHSSLYPUHZ��PUJS\KPUN�:\ZHU�1HMML��=P]HUH�Durante, Lucia LaCarra and Evelyn Hart.

Mr. Antonijevic is also a photographer. His work has been featured at CONTACT, Toronto’s annual international photography festival. He has had two exhibitions of his work and photographed the Principal Dancers for the 2011/12 Souvenir Book.

James Aylesworth began studying the violin at the age of six. During that ZHTL�`LHY�OL�ZH^�OPZ�ÄYZ[�IHSSL[��VWLYH�HUK�)YVHK^H`�T\ZPJHS��HUK�OPZ�M\[\YL�^HZ�WYL[[`�much set. He is currently a member of both the National Ballet and the Canadian Opera Company Orchestras and was also a member of Toronto’s Esprit Orchestra for ten years. 1HTLZ�OHZ�HSZV�WSH`LK�V]LY�H�[OV\ZHUK�WLYMVYTHUJLZ�VM�)YVHK^H`�ZOV^Z�YHUNPUN�MYVT�‘Anne of Green Gables’ to ‘West Side Story’.

In his spare time he enjoys playing with his theremin and taking candy from strangers.

4HYJO��·�!�� !��W�T�

To Heliconian and BackOur annual cabaret

Heliconian Hall, 35 Hazelton Avenue (Yorkville)

1\UL��·�!��W�T�

Songs My Brother Taught MeSpring concert

Church of the Holy Trinity, Trinity Square (Eaton Centre)

Upcoming Concerts


Michael Bloss inhabits the twin worlds of Aviation (Flight Instructor) and Music. His more than 30 years of distinguished tradition of pastoral music ministry has included tenures as Director of Music Ministry at Glenview Presbyterian Church in Toronto, Dublin Street United Church in Guelph, [OL� *H[OLKYHS� *O\YJO� VM� :[�� 1HTLZ� PU� ;VYVU[V�� -PYZ[� �7HYR�*VUNYLNH[PVUHS�*O\YJO��.YHUK�9HWPKZ��40�HUK�;PTV[O`�,H[VU�Memorial Church, Toronto. He is an international competition winner (First Prize in the 1986 International Organ Competition at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and Preistrger at the � �� 0?�� 0U[LYUH[PVUHS� 1�:�� )HJO� 6YNHU� *VTWL[P[PVU� OLSK� PU�Leipzig, Germany), and has enjoyed special appearances with

the Toronto Symphony, Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, Hannaford Street Silver Band and at the 1993 International Congress of Organists in Montreal. Increasingly, he is in demand as an adjudicator and clinician in organ, piano and choral music at music festivals and workshops HJYVZZ�[OL�JV\U[Y �̀�/L�OHZ�HKQ\KPJH[LK�H[�[OL�7LLS��;VYVU[V��6[[H^H�HUK�:[��1VOU»Z�2P^HUPZ�-LZ[P]HSZ��/PZ�ZVSV�JHYLLY�OHZ�PUJS\KLK�ZVSV�]LU\LZ�PU�,\YVWL��1HWHU��[OL�<:��HUK�[OYV\NOV\[�Canada. His US. appearances have included performances at the Cadet Chapel, West Point, the Cleveland Museum of Art, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Detroit and Chicago’s Fourth Presbyterian *O\YJO�� 0U� HKKP[PVU��4Y��)SVZZ� OHZ�ILLU� MLH[\YLK�VU�*)*�9HKPV� HUK�;LSL]PZPVU��5H[PVUHS�7\ISPJ�9HKPV�HUK�:^PZZ�9HKPV�

Brainerd Blyden-Taylor is the Founder, Artistic Director and conductor VM� ;OL� 5H[OHUPLS� +L[[� *OVYHSL�� *HUHKH»Z� ÄYZ[� WYVMLZZPVUHS�chamber choir dedicated to the creation and performance of Afrocentric music of all styles. Born in Trinidad & Tobago, Mr. Blyden-Taylor immigrated to Canada in 1973. He founded The Chorale in 1998, in response to a musical void in Canada; there had never before been a professional ensemble dedicated to the dissemination of Afrocentric choral music. The response that The Chorale has received in Canada and the United States since its inception has certainly given credence to Mr. Blyden-Taylor’s vision.

Mr. Blyden-Taylor has conducted several university, youth and concert choirs, most notably completing a 25 year tenure with The Orpheus Choir of Toronto. In addition he works frequently as a guest conductor, having appeared with organizations such as the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Nova Scotia, Hannaford Street Silver Band, Nova Scotia Youth Choir, Ontario Youth Choir, Central

-69;,� ,]LY`�JOPSK�T\Z[�IL�THKL�H^HYL��L]LY`�JOPSK�T\Z[�IL�THKL�[V�JHYL�� care enough for his fellow man to give all the love that he can.

ALL Mary nodded, parum pum pum pum, The ox and lamb kept time, parum pum pum pum. I played my drum for Him, parum pum pum pum, I played my best for Him, parum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum. Then He smiled at me, parum pum pum pum, me and my drum.

-69;,� 0�WYH`�T`�^PZO�^PSS�JVTL�[Y\L�MVY�T`�JOPSK��HUK�`V\Y�JOPSK��[VV�� We’ll see the day of glory, See the day when men of goodwill live in peace, live in harmony. Peace on earth, can it be?

:PUN� 1V`M\SS`� JLSLIYH[LZ� V\Y� ��[O� ZLHZVU��our progress over these years past, and our continuing growth and vision. This recording demonstrates our capabilities over a wide range of musical repertoire and is truly representative of our history and our depth of talent.

0[� PZ�H]HPSHISL�[OPZ�L]LUPUN�MVY��VY�JHU�be ordered on line at www.forte-chorus.com


9 | forte-chorus.com forte-chorus.com | 18

ALL In his master’s steps he trod where the snow lay dinted; Heat was in the very sod which the saint had printed. Therefore Godly men be sure wealth or rank possessing, � @L�ÔV�UV^�^PSS�ISLZZ�[OL�WVVY�ZOHSS�`V\YZLS]LZ�ÄUK�ISLZZPUN�

Carol of the Drum

-69;,� 7LHJL�VU�LHY[O��JHU�P[�IL&� Years from now perhaps we’ll see. See the day of glory, See the day when men of goodwill live in peace, live in harmony. Peace on earth, can it be?

ALL Come, they told me, parum pum pum pum, Our new born King to see, parum pum pum pum. � 6\Y�ÄULZ[�NPM[Z�^L�IYPUN��WHY\T�W\T�W\T�W\T�� To lay before the King, parum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum. So to honour Him, parum pum pum pum, when He come.

(33� )HI`�1LZ\��WHY\T�W\T�W\T�W\T�� I am a poor boy too, parum pum pum pum. I have no gift to bring, parum pum pum pum, � ;OH[»Z�Ä[�[V�NP]L�V\Y�2PUN��WHY\T�W\T�W\T�W\T�� rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum. Shall I play for you, parum pum pum pum, on my drum?

Manitoba Youth Choir and the New Brunswick Choral Federation Youth Sing. He has also worked as artistic director and advisor for the Algoma Festival Choir, the Nova Scotia 4HZZ�*OVPY�HUK�[OL�*OH[OHT�2LU[�9VV[Z�-LZ[P]HS��

Mr. Blyden-Taylor has served as a member of the teaching staff of the Faculty of Music, University of Toronto and the Faculty of Music, Queen’s University. He is a Master Teacher with the Toronto Board of Education, coaching teachers and students in conducting and choral technique, and was recently awarded an honourary Doctor of Laws degree from York University in Toronto.

Mr. Blyden-Taylor is also in constant demand as a Clinician, Adjudicator and Lecturer both nationally and internationally, working extensively across Canada and the United States of America, as well as in Cuba and France. He has also been invited to deliver workshops PU�1HWHU��;\YRL`�HUK� 0ZYHLS�� 0U�HKKP[PVU�4Y��)S`KLU�;H`SVY� PZ�HU�HJ[P]L�JO\YJO�T\ZPJPHU��serving currently as Music Director of St Timothy’s Anglican Church, North Toronto.

CTV’s Pauline Chan is a health reporter and host of a segment called “Lifetime” on CTV News at Six. Before that she ^HZ� [OL� SVUN�[PTL� JV�HUJOVY� VM� *;=�5L^Z� H[� ��!�� :OL»Z� HU�active participant in community events around Toronto, particularly for the Chinese and Filipino community and youth organizations.

Olivia Chow’s quest for a better society has been a lifelong journey that has taken her from Hong Kong to Toronto and one of the more extraordinary careers in Canadian politics. First as Trustee, then City Councillor, and now as a Member of Parliament, Olivia has been a tireless activist for the residents of Trinity-Spadina in downtown Toronto.

-PYZ[�LSLJ[LK�HZ�HU�47�PU�1HU\HY`�VM��6SP]PH�^HZ�YL�LSLJ[LK�in 2008 and again in May of 2011.

Olivia Chow had the rare distinction of being voted best Member of Parliament in 2010 and best city councillor seven times by the readers of NOW Magazine and best local politician four times by

forte-chorus.com | 1017 | forte-chorus.com

readers of Eye Magazine. She has also been the recipient of numerous awards, including Consumers Choice Award for the Woman of the Year and received a honourary degree from the Ontario College of Art and Design

Political leadership is just one dimension of Olivia Chow. She is a passionate gardener, artist, reader, outdoor enthusiast, a swimmer and cyclist. After learning English as a teenager, she Z[\KPLK�ÄUL�HY[Z�H[�[OL�6U[HYPV�*VSSLNL�VM�(Y[�HUK�7OPSVZVWO`�HUK�9LSPNPVU�H[�[OL�<UP]LYZP[`�of Toronto while working as a volunteer counselor in crisis intervention at the emergency ward of Toronto General Hospital – an indication of the kind of multi-tasking that has made OLY�Z\JO�HU�LMMLJ[P]L� SLHKLY��6SP]PH�LHYULK�HU�/VUV\YZ�)(� PU�ÄUL�HY[� MYVT� [OL�<UP]LYZP[`�of Guelph in 1979, and supported her career as a sculptor by working for a number of ZVJPHS�ZLY]PJL�HNLUJPLZ��-VY�Ä]L�̀ LHYZ��ZOL�HSZV�[H\NO[�H[�.LVYNL�)YVÛ�*VSSLNL»Z�(ZZH\S[LK�Women and Children Counseling and Advocacy Program.

Early in her political career, Olivia forged one of Canada’s most remarkable political WHY[ULYZOPWZ�ÔLU�ZOL�TL[�1HJR�3H`[VU��;OL`�ZOHYLK�H�WHZZPVU�MVY�SPML�HUK�JVTTP[TLU[�[V�JOHUNL�HUK�THYYPLK�PU�� 6SP]PH�HUK�1HJR�SP]LK�PU�;YPUP[`�:WHKPUH»Z�*OPUH[VÛ�^P[O�Olivia’s mother Ho Sze in a house that they transformed with a “green” renovation. Their children Sarah and Michael Layton live nearby.

As she enters her third decade in public life, Olivia Chow is just beginning to hit her stride. The journey is ongoing – Olivia’s quest for a better society and her determination to make a difference continue.

Marilyn Lightstone, one of Canada’s most respected actresses, is known for her moving performances on stage, screen, and television.

(TVUN�OLY�HJJVSHKLZ�PU�ÄST�HYL�)LZ[�(J[YLZZ�MVY�3PLZ�4`�-H[OLY�Told Me; Best Supporting Actress for In Praise of Older Women; and a Best Actress Award at the Moscow International Film Festival for The Tin Flute.

On television, she is internationally recognized for her performance as Miss Stacey in Anne of Green Gables, as well HZ� [OL� ZWPUVMM� ZLYPLZ�� 9VHK� [V� (]VUSLH"� HUK� OHZ� HSZV� THKL�N\LZ[�HWWLHYHUJLZ�PU�*OLLYZ��*HNUL`�HUK�3HJL �̀�:[YLL[�3LNHS��,�5�.��HUK�9LHK`�VY�5V[��Among her many stage roles are Goneril in King Lear at the Lincoln Centre in New York VWWVZP[L�3LL�1��*VII"�4HZOH�PU�*OLRV]»Z�;OL�:LHN\SS�H[�:[YH[MVYK�"�[OL�[P[SL�YVSL�PU�[OL�VUL�woman show Miss Margarida; and Leah in The Dybbuk, winner of a Los Angeles Drama Critics Award as Best Production. She was also part of the original L.A. and New York casts

Good King Wenceslas

ALL Good King Wenceslas looked out on the Feast of Stephen, When the snow lay round about, deep and crisp and even. Brightly shone the moon that night though the frost was cruel, When a poor man came in sight gathering winter fuel.

(33�*65;9(3;6:��)(::,:��(5+�7,9:65:�6-�205.3@�+,4,(56<9! “Hither, page, and stand by me, if thou know’st it, telling, Yonder peasant, who is he? Where and what his dwelling?”

(33�:679(56:��;,569:��(5+�7,9:65:�6-�@6<;/-<3�>65+,94,5;! “Sire he lives a good league hence underneath the mountain � 9PNO[�HNHPUZ[�[OL�MVYLZ[�MLUJL�I`�:HPU[�(NULZ»�MV\U[HPU�¹

(33�*65;9(3;6:��)(::,:��(5+�7,9:65:�6-�205.3@�+,4,(56<9� ¸)YPUN�TL�ÅLZO�HUK�IYPUN�TL�^PUL��)YPUN�TL�WPUL�SVNZ�OP[OLY�� Thou and I will see him dine when we bear them thither.”

ALL Page and monarch forth they went, forth they went together Through the rude wind’s wild lament and the bitter weather.

(33�:679(56:��;,569:��(5+�7,9:65:�6-�@6<;/-<3�>65+,94,5; “Sire the night is darker now and the wind blows stronger, Fails my heart I know not how; I can go no longer.”

(33�*65;9(3;6:��)(::,:��(5+�7,9:65:�6-�205.3@�+,4,(56<9 “Mark my footsteps good my page, tread thou in them boldly, � ;OV\�ZOHS[�ÄUK�[OL�^PU[LY»Z�YHNL�MYLLaL�[O`�ISVVK�SLZZ�JVSKS �̀¹


-69;,� 6\Y�.VK��OLH]LU�JHUUV[�OVSK�OPT��UVY�LHY[O�Z\Z[HPU"�� OLH]LU�HUK�LHY[O�ZOHSS�ÅLL�H^H`�ÔLU�OL�JVTLZ�[V�YLPNU"�� PU�[OL�ISLHR�TPK^PU[LY�H�Z[HISL�WSHJL�Z\MÄJLK�� [OL�3VYK�.VK�HSTPNO[ �̀�1LZ\Z�*OYPZ[�

ALL What can I give him, poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; If I were a wise man, I would do my part; Yet what I can, I give him; give my heart.

Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes

ALL Les anges dans nos campagnes Ont entonné l’hymne des cieux; � ,[�S»tJOV�KL�UVZ�TVU[HNULZ�9LKP[�JL�JOHU[�TtSVKPL\_� Gloria, in excelsis Deo, Gloria, in excelsis Deo.

Bergers, pour qui cette fête? Quel est l’objet de tous ces chant? Quel vainqueur, quelle conquête Mérite ces cris triomphants? Gloria, in excelsis Deo, Gloria, in excelsis Deo.

Gloria, in excelsis Deo, Gloria, in excelsis Deo.

Ils annoncent la naissance Du Libérateur d’Israël, Et pleins de reconnaissance Chantent en ce jour solennel. Gloria, in excelsis Deo, Gloria, in excelsis Deo.

of Tamara, the theatrical phenomenon that played for long runs and to rave reviews.

In addition to extensive radio drama, voice overs and commercials, and hundreds of voices for cartoons, she has written scripts for The Littlest Hobo and The Colours of Love; and a song for the holiday season, “The Light Shines All Over the World,” (released as a music video and which plays annually on MuchMusic, MuchMoreMusic, Bravo!, and – of course – on the New Classical 96.3FM).

She has also written a collection of songs entitled Miss Lightstone Sings, which she has WLYMVYTLK�PU�JVUJLY["�HUK�H�UV]LS��9VN\LZ�HUK�=HNHIVUKZ��IHZLK�SHYNLS`�VU�OLY�[YHPUPUN�for, and work in, the acting profession.

Miss Lightstone was the founding “Voice” of Bravo!; has served as Associate Producer and Co-Director of the channel’s Gemini Award-winning drama series, Spoken Art, and hosted P[Z�7SH`^YPNO[Z�HUK�:JYLLU^YP[LYZ��H�ZLYPLZ�VM�OHSM�OV\Y�WYVÄSLZ�

When not hosting Nocturne, Miss Lightstone spends her time at her art studio, where she works at photography and painting, and usually mounts several exhibitions annually.

Miss Lightstone invites you to join her every evening from 11pm until 1am for Nocturne, exclusively on THE NEW CLASSICAL 96.3 FM.

Gideon Akufuna Sifuba has been performing as a musician for more than 15 years. He began as a member, [OLU�H�ZVSVPZ[�HUK�ÄUHSS`�H�JVUK\J[VY�VM�OPZ�JO\YJO�JOVPY��/L�taught himself to play the clarinet and began also to play in the church orchestra. Upon moving to Namibia from Zambia, Akufuna took a job with his church, establishing choirs in new church communities – thus beginning his career as a professional musician.

Akufuna was a music teacher in Namibia, teaching in both primary and secondary schools. He led several choirs as well as conducted a community brass band. He also worked for

the Namibian College of the Arts, teaching music as an extra-curricular activity to under privileged children.

As a tenor, Akufuna has performed and recorded with the acclaimed Mascato Coastal Choir of Namibia. As a clarinetist, he has performed and recorded as a guest soloist with the Namib Marimbas. In addition, as an African drummer, Akufuna has toured with the Ongoma Drummers giving performances and workshops to tourists throughout Namibia.

(R\M\UH�PTTPNYH[LK�[V�*HUHKH�PU�[OL�ZWYPUN�VM��HUK�PZ�J\YYLU[S`�ÄUPZOPUN�H�JVUJ\YYLU[�


O Come, O Come Emmanuel

-69;,� 6�JVTL��6�JVTL��,TTHU\LS��HUK�YHUZVT�JHW[P]L�0ZYHLS� That mourns in lowly exile here until the Son of God appear.

(33� 9LQVPJL��9LQVPJL��,TTHU\LS�ZOHSS�JVTL�[V�[OLL��6�0ZYHLS�

O come, thou Wisdom from on high, who orders all in earth and sky; To us the path of knowledge show, and teach us in her ways to go. � 9LQVPJL��9LQVPJL��,TTHU\LS�ZOHSS�JVTL�[V�[OLL��6�0ZYHLS�

-69;,� 6�JVTL��[OV\�+H`ZWYPUN��JVTL�HUK�JOLLY�V\Y�ZWPYP[Z�I`� thine advent here; Disperse the gloomy clouds of night and death’s dark shadows � � W\[�[V�ÅPNO[�� 9LQVPJL��9LQVPJL��,TTHU\LS�ZOHSS�JVTL�[V�[OLL��6�0ZYHLS�

ALL O come, Desire of nations, bind all peoples in one heart and mind; � 6�IPK�V\Y�ZHK�KP]PZPVUZ�JLHZL��HUK�IL�MVY�\Z�[OL�9LPNU�VM�7LHJL�� 9LQVPJL��9LQVPJL��,TTHU\LS�ZOHSS�JVTL�[V�[OLL��6�0ZYHLS�

In the Bleak Midwinter

ALL In the bleak midwinter frosty wind made moan, earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone; snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow, in the bleak midwinter long ago.

music and education program at York University. He worked with the AfriCan Theatre Ensemble as the musical director in 2008 for their production of “Have you seen Zandile?” and again in 2010 for their production of “Sophiatown”also just second prize winner of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) in Fourth Year post-secondary Men.

The Mascato Coastal Choir, Edmonton’s Kokopelli and Oran Choirs and the Nathaniel Dett Chorale and the Canadian Children’s Opera Company, have each performed Akufuna’s original compositions and traditional African transcriptions.

Akufuna conducts full day choral and drumming workshops throughout the Greater Toronto Area and sings with St Clements Anglican as section lead and the Nathaniel Dett Chorale.

True North Brass� I\YZ[� VU� [V� [OL� ZJLUL� PU� � �� HUK� OHZ� ZPUJL� ZVSPKPÄLK� P[Z�YLW\[H[PVU�HZ�VUL�VM�[OL�^VYSK»Z�ÄULZ[�IYHZZ�LUZLTISLZ��>P[O�H�YVZ[LY�VM�ZVTL�VM�*HUHKH»Z�ÄULZ[�IYHZZ�PUZ[Y\TLU[HSPZ[Z��;Y\L�5VY[O»Z�TLTILYZOPW�PUJS\KLZ�[^V�V\[Z[HUKPUN�JVTWVZLY�/ arrangers who create the ensemble’s fresh and unique programming. Proudly Canadian in focus and expression with a truly international outlook, True North Brass has been welcomed not only in Canada but in China and throughout North America. True North Brass has released four critically acclaimed recordings, been featured on CBC Television’s Opening Night program, is heard frequently on public and private radio and collaborated on other YLJVYKPUN�WYVQLJ[Z�^P[O�Z\JO�HY[PZ[Z�HZ�[OL�,STLY�0ZLSLY�:PUNLYZ��9PJR�-V_��3VYP�*\SSLU��,SLHUVY�Daley and St. Michael’s Choir School.

True North Brass was featured at the International Brass Symposium in Atlanta, Georgia in March 2000. They accompanied Prime Minister Chretien’s 1998 trade mission to China, performing recitals in Beijing and Wuhan and directing masterclasses at the Beijing Conservatory. The quintet has also performed masterclasses and recitals at the Boston and New England Conservatories and toured British Columbia, Ontario, Tennessee, New York, Connecticut, Virginia, Texas, New Hampshire, Idaho, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Alabama, and Florida. True North Brass has appeared at the Ottawa Chamber Music Festival on four VJJHZPVUZ��9LJLU[�WLYMVYTHUJLZ�VM�[OL�X\PU[L[�PUJS\KL�JVUJLY[Z�PU�7P[[ZI\YN�7LUUZ`S]HUPH��Boise Idaho, the Festival of the Sound, the Westben Summer Music Festival, The Barrie Colours of Music Festival, The International Trumpet Guild’s 2008 conference, West Liberty >LZ[�=PYNPUPH��>HS[LY�/HSS�H[�[OL�<UP]LYZP[`�VM�;VYVU[V��9V`�;OVTZVU�/HSS�^P[O�[OL�;VYVU[V�Children’s Chorus, The Toronto Centre for the Arts with the Amadeus Choir, and the International Women’s Brass Conference, Toronto 2010. True North Brass was Ensemble PU� 9LZPKLUJL� H[� [OL�<UP]LYZP[`�6M�>LZ[LYU�6U[HYPV»Z�+VU�>YPNO[� -HJ\S[`� VM�4\ZPJ� MVY� [OL�� HJHKLTPJ�`LHY��-VY�TVYL�PUMVYTH[PVU�WSLHZL�]PZP[!�^^ �̂[Y\LUVY[OIYHZZ�JVT

The Bidding Prayer Stuart Watson

O Come, O Come Emmanuel (lyrics, pg 15) * Forte, Audience >VYKZ!�3H[PU�HU[PWOVUZ�MVY�(K]LU[�� [O�J��T\ZPJ!��[O�J��WSHPUZVUN��(YY��I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Reading: Luke 1:26-35, 38 Olivia Chow

Ave Maria�� -VY[L"�:VSVPZ[Z!�9PJR�=H\NOHU��7H[YPJR�3HT��:[L]L�7PNSPHJLSSP 4\ZPJ!�-YHUa�)PLIS

9LHKPUN!�+PɈLYLU[�>H`Z�[V�7YH` Marilyn Lightstone >VYKZ!�5HVTP�:OPOHI�5`L

Are You Burning, Little Candle? Forte >VYKZ�HUK�T\ZPJ!�1HUL�:PILYY �̀�HYYHUNLK�I`�:[LWOLU�:TP[O

Reading: Luke 2:1, 3-7 Pauline Chan

O Magnum Mysterium Forte 4\ZPJ!�4VY[LU�3H\YPKZLU

In the Bleak Midwinter (lyrics, pg 15) * Forte, Audience >VYKZ!�*OYPZ[PUH�9VZL[[P��T\ZPJ!�.\Z[H]�/VSZ[��HYYHUNLK�I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Reading: Amazing Peace Brainerd Blyden-Taylor >VYKZ!�4H`H�(UNLSV\

Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow Forte Traditional American Spiritual, arranged by Kirby Shaw

Betelehemu�� -VY[L"�+Y\TTLY!�(R\M\UH�:PM\IH >VYKZ!�;YHKP[PVUHS�@VY\IH��T\ZPJ!�=PH�6SH[\UQP��HYYHUNLK�I`�>LUKHSS�>OHS\T

Reading: Luke: 2:8-16 Aleksandar Antonijevic

Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes (lyrics, pg 16) * Forte, Audience Traditional French carol, arranged by Larry Moore

Christmas Cantata Forte 4\ZPJ!�+HUPLS�7PUROHT 0!�8\LT�]PKPZ[PZ��WHZ[VYLZ&��>OVT�KV�`V\�ZLL��ZOLWOLYKZ&� 00!�6�4HNU\T�4`Z[LYP\T��6�NYLH[�T`Z[LY`� 000!�.SVYPH�PU�L_JLSZPZ�+LV��.SVY`�[V�.VK�PU�[OL�OPNOLZ[�

Intermission

Good King Wenceslas (lyrics, pg 17) * Forte, Audience >VYKZ!�1VOU�4HZVU�5LHSL��T\ZPJ!��[O�J��,UNSPZO��HYYHUNLK�I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Shchedryk Forte Mykola Leontovych, arranged by Peter Krochak

Reading: Ring Out, Wild Bells Olivia Chow >VYKZ!�(SMYLK��3VYK�;LUU`ZVU

Snow Forte >VYKZ!�(YJOPIHSK�3HTWTHU��T\ZPJ!�3VYLLUH�4J2LUUP[[��HYY��I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Our Gay Apparel Forte Traditional English, arranged by Edward Connell

Reading: Matthew: 2:1-11 Marilyn Lightstone

There Shall a Star from Jacob Come Forth 4\ZPJ!�-LSP_�4LUKLSZZVOU��HYYHUNLK�I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Carol of the Drum (lyrics, pg 18) * Forte, Audience Words and music by Katherine K. Davis, with additions by Buz Kohan, Larry Grossman and Ian Fraser, arranged by Steve Watts and Edward Connell

Reading: [“The lamps are burning in the synagogue…”] Pauline Chan >VYKZ!�*OHYSLZ�9LaUPRVMM

Candlelight Forte >VYKZ!�+H]PK�)SVJR��0TTHU\LS�:OHSL]�HUK�¸;OL�4HJJHILH[Z¹�� 4\ZPJ!�;HPV�*Y\a��)VUUPL�4J2LL��3\RHZa�.V[[^HYK��4HY[PU�:HUKILYN�HUK� Benjamin Levin, arranged by Edward Connell

Reading: John: 1:1-14 Brainerd Blyden-Taylor

The Word Forte >VYKZ!�3VYP�=VZ��T\ZPJ!�7L[LY�2YVJOHR

The Light Shines All Over the World�� -VY[L"�:VSVPZ[!�4HYPSÙ�3PNO[Z[VUL >VYKZ�HUK�T\ZPJ!�4HYPSÙ�3PNO[Z[VUL��HYYHUNLK�I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Reading: Song from the Kitlinuharmiut Aleksandar Antonijevic �*VWWLY�,ZRPTV��;OL�9LWVY[�VM�[OL�-PM[O�;O\SL�� [O�JLU[\Y`

Stille Nacht � -VY[L"�=PVSPUPZ[!�1HTLZ�(`SLZ^VY[O ^VYKZ!�1VZLWO�4VOY��T\ZPJ!�-YHUa�.Y\ILY��HYYHUNLK�I`�;YL]VY�4J3HPU


All Is Calm, All Is Bright Programme

* The audience is invited to join in the singing where indicated in the lyrics; however, we ask that you remain seated for the duration of the performance.

The Bidding Prayer Stuart Watson

O Come, O Come Emmanuel (lyrics, pg 15) * Forte, Audience >VYKZ!�3H[PU�HU[PWOVUZ�MVY�(K]LU[�� [O�J��T\ZPJ!��[O�J��WSHPUZVUN��(YY��I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Reading: Luke 1:26-35, 38 Olivia Chow

Ave Maria�� -VY[L"�:VSVPZ[Z!�9PJR�=H\NOHU��7H[YPJR�3HT��:[L]L�7PNSPHJLSSP 4\ZPJ!�-YHUa�)PLIS

9LHKPUN!�+PɈLYLU[�>H`Z�[V�7YH` Marilyn Lightstone >VYKZ!�5HVTP�:OPOHI�5`L

Are You Burning, Little Candle? Forte >VYKZ�HUK�T\ZPJ!�1HUL�:PILYY �̀�HYYHUNLK�I`�:[LWOLU�:TP[O

Reading: Luke 2:1, 3-7 Pauline Chan

O Magnum Mysterium Forte 4\ZPJ!�4VY[LU�3H\YPKZLU

In the Bleak Midwinter (lyrics, pg 15) * Forte, Audience >VYKZ!�*OYPZ[PUH�9VZL[[P��T\ZPJ!�.\Z[H]�/VSZ[��HYYHUNLK�I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Reading: Amazing Peace Brainerd Blyden-Taylor >VYKZ!�4H`H�(UNLSV\

Rise Up, Shepherd, and Follow Forte Traditional American Spiritual, arranged by Kirby Shaw

Betelehemu�� -VY[L"�+Y\TTLY!�(R\M\UH�:PM\IH >VYKZ!�;YHKP[PVUHS�@VY\IH��T\ZPJ!�=PH�6SH[\UQP��HYYHUNLK�I`�>LUKHSS�>OHS\T

Reading: Luke: 2:8-16 Aleksandar Antonijevic

Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes (lyrics, pg 16) * Forte, Audience Traditional French carol, arranged by Larry Moore

Christmas Cantata Forte 4\ZPJ!�+HUPLS�7PUROHT 0!�8\LT�]PKPZ[PZ��WHZ[VYLZ&��>OVT�KV�`V\�ZLL��ZOLWOLYKZ&� 00!�6�4HNU\T�4`Z[LYP\T��6�NYLH[�T`Z[LY`� 000!�.SVYPH�PU�L_JLSZPZ�+LV��.SVY`�[V�.VK�PU�[OL�OPNOLZ[�

Intermission

Good King Wenceslas (lyrics, pg 17) * Forte, Audience >VYKZ!�1VOU�4HZVU�5LHSL��T\ZPJ!��[O�J��,UNSPZO��HYYHUNLK�I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Shchedryk Forte Mykola Leontovych, arranged by Peter Krochak

Reading: Ring Out, Wild Bells Olivia Chow >VYKZ!�(SMYLK��3VYK�;LUU`ZVU

Snow Forte >VYKZ!�(YJOPIHSK�3HTWTHU��T\ZPJ!�3VYLLUH�4J2LUUP[[��HYY��I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Our Gay Apparel Forte Traditional English, arranged by Edward Connell

Reading: Matthew: 2:1-11 Marilyn Lightstone

There Shall a Star from Jacob Come Forth 4\ZPJ!�-LSP_�4LUKLSZZVOU��HYYHUNLK�I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Carol of the Drum (lyrics, pg 18) * Forte, Audience Words and music by Katherine K. Davis, with additions by Buz Kohan, Larry Grossman and Ian Fraser, arranged by Steve Watts and Edward Connell

Reading: [“The lamps are burning in the synagogue…”] Pauline Chan >VYKZ!�*OHYSLZ�9LaUPRVMM

Candlelight Forte >VYKZ!�+H]PK�)SVJR��0TTHU\LS�:OHSL]�HUK�¸;OL�4HJJHILH[Z¹�� 4\ZPJ!�;HPV�*Y\a��)VUUPL�4J2LL��3\RHZa�.V[[^HYK��4HY[PU�:HUKILYN�HUK� Benjamin Levin, arranged by Edward Connell

Reading: John: 1:1-14 Brainerd Blyden-Taylor

The Word Forte >VYKZ!�3VYP�=VZ��T\ZPJ!�7L[LY�2YVJOHR

The Light Shines All Over the World�� -VY[L"�:VSVPZ[!�4HYPSÙ�3PNO[Z[VUL >VYKZ�HUK�T\ZPJ!�4HYPSÙ�3PNO[Z[VUL��HYYHUNLK�I`�,K^HYK�*VUULSS

Reading: Song from the Kitlinuharmiut Aleksandar Antonijevic �*VWWLY�,ZRPTV��;OL�9LWVY[�VM�[OL�-PM[O�;O\SL�� [O�JLU[\Y`

Stille Nacht � -VY[L"�=PVSPUPZ[!�1HTLZ�(`SLZ^VY[O ^VYKZ!�1VZLWO�4VOY��T\ZPJ!�-YHUa�.Y\ILY��HYYHUNLK�I`�;YL]VY�4J3HPU


All Is Calm, All Is Bright Programme

* The audience is invited to join in the singing where indicated in the lyrics; however, we ask that you remain seated for the duration of the performance.


O Come, O Come Emmanuel

-69;,� 6�JVTL��6�JVTL��,TTHU\LS��HUK�YHUZVT�JHW[P]L�0ZYHLS� That mourns in lowly exile here until the Son of God appear.

(33� 9LQVPJL��9LQVPJL��,TTHU\LS�ZOHSS�JVTL�[V�[OLL��6�0ZYHLS�

O come, thou Wisdom from on high, who orders all in earth and sky; To us the path of knowledge show, and teach us in her ways to go. � 9LQVPJL��9LQVPJL��,TTHU\LS�ZOHSS�JVTL�[V�[OLL��6�0ZYHLS�

-69;,� 6�JVTL��[OV\�+H`ZWYPUN��JVTL�HUK�JOLLY�V\Y�ZWPYP[Z�I`� thine advent here; Disperse the gloomy clouds of night and death’s dark shadows � � W\[�[V�ÅPNO[�� 9LQVPJL��9LQVPJL��,TTHU\LS�ZOHSS�JVTL�[V�[OLL��6�0ZYHLS�

ALL O come, Desire of nations, bind all peoples in one heart and mind; � 6�IPK�V\Y�ZHK�KP]PZPVUZ�JLHZL��HUK�IL�MVY�\Z�[OL�9LPNU�VM�7LHJL�� 9LQVPJL��9LQVPJL��,TTHU\LS�ZOHSS�JVTL�[V�[OLL��6�0ZYHLS�

In the Bleak Midwinter

ALL In the bleak midwinter frosty wind made moan, earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone; snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow, in the bleak midwinter long ago.

music and education program at York University. He worked with the AfriCan Theatre Ensemble as the musical director in 2008 for their production of “Have you seen Zandile?” and again in 2010 for their production of “Sophiatown”also just second prize winner of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) in Fourth Year post-secondary Men.

The Mascato Coastal Choir, Edmonton’s Kokopelli and Oran Choirs and the Nathaniel Dett Chorale and the Canadian Children’s Opera Company, have each performed Akufuna’s original compositions and traditional African transcriptions.

Akufuna conducts full day choral and drumming workshops throughout the Greater Toronto Area and sings with St Clements Anglican as section lead and the Nathaniel Dett Chorale.

True North Brass� I\YZ[� VU� [V� [OL� ZJLUL� PU� � �� HUK� OHZ� ZPUJL� ZVSPKPÄLK� P[Z�YLW\[H[PVU�HZ�VUL�VM�[OL�^VYSK»Z�ÄULZ[�IYHZZ�LUZLTISLZ��>P[O�H�YVZ[LY�VM�ZVTL�VM�*HUHKH»Z�ÄULZ[�IYHZZ�PUZ[Y\TLU[HSPZ[Z��;Y\L�5VY[O»Z�TLTILYZOPW�PUJS\KLZ�[^V�V\[Z[HUKPUN�JVTWVZLY�/ arrangers who create the ensemble’s fresh and unique programming. Proudly Canadian in focus and expression with a truly international outlook, True North Brass has been welcomed not only in Canada but in China and throughout North America. True North Brass has released four critically acclaimed recordings, been featured on CBC Television’s Opening Night program, is heard frequently on public and private radio and collaborated on other YLJVYKPUN�WYVQLJ[Z�^P[O�Z\JO�HY[PZ[Z�HZ�[OL�,STLY�0ZLSLY�:PUNLYZ��9PJR�-V_��3VYP�*\SSLU��,SLHUVY�Daley and St. Michael’s Choir School.

True North Brass was featured at the International Brass Symposium in Atlanta, Georgia in March 2000. They accompanied Prime Minister Chretien’s 1998 trade mission to China, performing recitals in Beijing and Wuhan and directing masterclasses at the Beijing Conservatory. The quintet has also performed masterclasses and recitals at the Boston and New England Conservatories and toured British Columbia, Ontario, Tennessee, New York, Connecticut, Virginia, Texas, New Hampshire, Idaho, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Alabama, and Florida. True North Brass has appeared at the Ottawa Chamber Music Festival on four VJJHZPVUZ��9LJLU[�WLYMVYTHUJLZ�VM�[OL�X\PU[L[�PUJS\KL�JVUJLY[Z�PU�7P[[ZI\YN�7LUUZ`S]HUPH��Boise Idaho, the Festival of the Sound, the Westben Summer Music Festival, The Barrie Colours of Music Festival, The International Trumpet Guild’s 2008 conference, West Liberty >LZ[�=PYNPUPH��>HS[LY�/HSS�H[�[OL�<UP]LYZP[`�VM�;VYVU[V��9V`�;OVTZVU�/HSS�^P[O�[OL�;VYVU[V�Children’s Chorus, The Toronto Centre for the Arts with the Amadeus Choir, and the International Women’s Brass Conference, Toronto 2010. True North Brass was Ensemble PU� 9LZPKLUJL� H[� [OL�<UP]LYZP[`�6M�>LZ[LYU�6U[HYPV»Z�+VU�>YPNO[� -HJ\S[`� VM�4\ZPJ� MVY� [OL�� HJHKLTPJ�`LHY��-VY�TVYL�PUMVYTH[PVU�WSLHZL�]PZP[!�^^ �̂[Y\LUVY[OIYHZZ�JVT


-69;,� 6\Y�.VK��OLH]LU�JHUUV[�OVSK�OPT��UVY�LHY[O�Z\Z[HPU"�� OLH]LU�HUK�LHY[O�ZOHSS�ÅLL�H^H`�ÔLU�OL�JVTLZ�[V�YLPNU"�� PU�[OL�ISLHR�TPK^PU[LY�H�Z[HISL�WSHJL�Z\MÄJLK�� [OL�3VYK�.VK�HSTPNO[ �̀�1LZ\Z�*OYPZ[�

ALL What can I give him, poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb; If I were a wise man, I would do my part; Yet what I can, I give him; give my heart.

Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes

ALL Les anges dans nos campagnes Ont entonné l’hymne des cieux; � ,[�S»tJOV�KL�UVZ�TVU[HNULZ�9LKP[�JL�JOHU[�TtSVKPL\_� Gloria, in excelsis Deo, Gloria, in excelsis Deo.

Bergers, pour qui cette fête? Quel est l’objet de tous ces chant? Quel vainqueur, quelle conquête Mérite ces cris triomphants? Gloria, in excelsis Deo, Gloria, in excelsis Deo.

Gloria, in excelsis Deo, Gloria, in excelsis Deo.

Ils annoncent la naissance Du Libérateur d’Israël, Et pleins de reconnaissance Chantent en ce jour solennel. Gloria, in excelsis Deo, Gloria, in excelsis Deo.

of Tamara, the theatrical phenomenon that played for long runs and to rave reviews.

In addition to extensive radio drama, voice overs and commercials, and hundreds of voices for cartoons, she has written scripts for The Littlest Hobo and The Colours of Love; and a song for the holiday season, “The Light Shines All Over the World,” (released as a music video and which plays annually on MuchMusic, MuchMoreMusic, Bravo!, and – of course – on the New Classical 96.3FM).

She has also written a collection of songs entitled Miss Lightstone Sings, which she has WLYMVYTLK�PU�JVUJLY["�HUK�H�UV]LS��9VN\LZ�HUK�=HNHIVUKZ��IHZLK�SHYNLS`�VU�OLY�[YHPUPUN�for, and work in, the acting profession.

Miss Lightstone was the founding “Voice” of Bravo!; has served as Associate Producer and Co-Director of the channel’s Gemini Award-winning drama series, Spoken Art, and hosted P[Z�7SH`^YPNO[Z�HUK�:JYLLU^YP[LYZ��H�ZLYPLZ�VM�OHSM�OV\Y�WYVÄSLZ�

When not hosting Nocturne, Miss Lightstone spends her time at her art studio, where she works at photography and painting, and usually mounts several exhibitions annually.

Miss Lightstone invites you to join her every evening from 11pm until 1am for Nocturne, exclusively on THE NEW CLASSICAL 96.3 FM.

Gideon Akufuna Sifuba has been performing as a musician for more than 15 years. He began as a member, [OLU�H�ZVSVPZ[�HUK�ÄUHSS`�H�JVUK\J[VY�VM�OPZ�JO\YJO�JOVPY��/L�taught himself to play the clarinet and began also to play in the church orchestra. Upon moving to Namibia from Zambia, Akufuna took a job with his church, establishing choirs in new church communities – thus beginning his career as a professional musician.

Akufuna was a music teacher in Namibia, teaching in both primary and secondary schools. He led several choirs as well as conducted a community brass band. He also worked for

the Namibian College of the Arts, teaching music as an extra-curricular activity to under privileged children.

As a tenor, Akufuna has performed and recorded with the acclaimed Mascato Coastal Choir of Namibia. As a clarinetist, he has performed and recorded as a guest soloist with the Namib Marimbas. In addition, as an African drummer, Akufuna has toured with the Ongoma Drummers giving performances and workshops to tourists throughout Namibia.

(R\M\UH�PTTPNYH[LK�[V�*HUHKH�PU�[OL�ZWYPUN�VM��HUK�PZ�J\YYLU[S`�ÄUPZOPUN�H�JVUJ\YYLU[�


readers of Eye Magazine. She has also been the recipient of numerous awards, including Consumers Choice Award for the Woman of the Year and received a honourary degree from the Ontario College of Art and Design

Political leadership is just one dimension of Olivia Chow. She is a passionate gardener, artist, reader, outdoor enthusiast, a swimmer and cyclist. After learning English as a teenager, she Z[\KPLK�ÄUL�HY[Z�H[�[OL�6U[HYPV�*VSSLNL�VM�(Y[�HUK�7OPSVZVWO`�HUK�9LSPNPVU�H[�[OL�<UP]LYZP[`�of Toronto while working as a volunteer counselor in crisis intervention at the emergency ward of Toronto General Hospital – an indication of the kind of multi-tasking that has made OLY�Z\JO�HU�LMMLJ[P]L� SLHKLY��6SP]PH�LHYULK�HU�/VUV\YZ�)(� PU�ÄUL�HY[� MYVT� [OL�<UP]LYZP[`�of Guelph in 1979, and supported her career as a sculptor by working for a number of ZVJPHS�ZLY]PJL�HNLUJPLZ��-VY�Ä]L�̀ LHYZ��ZOL�HSZV�[H\NO[�H[�.LVYNL�)YVÛ�*VSSLNL»Z�(ZZH\S[LK�Women and Children Counseling and Advocacy Program.

Early in her political career, Olivia forged one of Canada’s most remarkable political WHY[ULYZOPWZ�ÔLU�ZOL�TL[�1HJR�3H`[VU��;OL`�ZOHYLK�H�WHZZPVU�MVY�SPML�HUK�JVTTP[TLU[�[V�JOHUNL�HUK�THYYPLK�PU�� 6SP]PH�HUK�1HJR�SP]LK�PU�;YPUP[`�:WHKPUH»Z�*OPUH[VÛ�^P[O�Olivia’s mother Ho Sze in a house that they transformed with a “green” renovation. Their children Sarah and Michael Layton live nearby.

As she enters her third decade in public life, Olivia Chow is just beginning to hit her stride. The journey is ongoing – Olivia’s quest for a better society and her determination to make a difference continue.

Marilyn Lightstone, one of Canada’s most respected actresses, is known for her moving performances on stage, screen, and television.

(TVUN�OLY�HJJVSHKLZ�PU�ÄST�HYL�)LZ[�(J[YLZZ�MVY�3PLZ�4`�-H[OLY�Told Me; Best Supporting Actress for In Praise of Older Women; and a Best Actress Award at the Moscow International Film Festival for The Tin Flute.

On television, she is internationally recognized for her performance as Miss Stacey in Anne of Green Gables, as well HZ� [OL� ZWPUVMM� ZLYPLZ�� 9VHK� [V� (]VUSLH"� HUK� OHZ� HSZV� THKL�N\LZ[�HWWLHYHUJLZ�PU�*OLLYZ��*HNUL`�HUK�3HJL �̀�:[YLL[�3LNHS��,�5�.��HUK�9LHK`�VY�5V[��Among her many stage roles are Goneril in King Lear at the Lincoln Centre in New York VWWVZP[L�3LL�1��*VII"�4HZOH�PU�*OLRV]»Z�;OL�:LHN\SS�H[�:[YH[MVYK�"�[OL�[P[SL�YVSL�PU�[OL�VUL�woman show Miss Margarida; and Leah in The Dybbuk, winner of a Los Angeles Drama Critics Award as Best Production. She was also part of the original L.A. and New York casts

Good King Wenceslas

ALL Good King Wenceslas looked out on the Feast of Stephen, When the snow lay round about, deep and crisp and even. Brightly shone the moon that night though the frost was cruel, When a poor man came in sight gathering winter fuel.

(33�*65;9(3;6:��)(::,:��(5+�7,9:65:�6-�205.3@�+,4,(56<9! “Hither, page, and stand by me, if thou know’st it, telling, Yonder peasant, who is he? Where and what his dwelling?”

(33�:679(56:��;,569:��(5+�7,9:65:�6-�@6<;/-<3�>65+,94,5;! “Sire he lives a good league hence underneath the mountain � 9PNO[�HNHPUZ[�[OL�MVYLZ[�MLUJL�I`�:HPU[�(NULZ»�MV\U[HPU�¹

(33�*65;9(3;6:��)(::,:��(5+�7,9:65:�6-�205.3@�+,4,(56<9� ¸)YPUN�TL�ÅLZO�HUK�IYPUN�TL�^PUL��)YPUN�TL�WPUL�SVNZ�OP[OLY�� Thou and I will see him dine when we bear them thither.”

ALL Page and monarch forth they went, forth they went together Through the rude wind’s wild lament and the bitter weather.

(33�:679(56:��;,569:��(5+�7,9:65:�6-�@6<;/-<3�>65+,94,5; “Sire the night is darker now and the wind blows stronger, Fails my heart I know not how; I can go no longer.”

(33�*65;9(3;6:��)(::,:��(5+�7,9:65:�6-�205.3@�+,4,(56<9 “Mark my footsteps good my page, tread thou in them boldly, � ;OV\�ZOHS[�ÄUK�[OL�^PU[LY»Z�YHNL�MYLLaL�[O`�ISVVK�SLZZ�JVSKS �̀¹


ALL In his master’s steps he trod where the snow lay dinted; Heat was in the very sod which the saint had printed. Therefore Godly men be sure wealth or rank possessing, � @L�ÔV�UV^�^PSS�ISLZZ�[OL�WVVY�ZOHSS�`V\YZLS]LZ�ÄUK�ISLZZPUN�

Carol of the Drum

-69;,� 7LHJL�VU�LHY[O��JHU�P[�IL&� Years from now perhaps we’ll see. See the day of glory, See the day when men of goodwill live in peace, live in harmony. Peace on earth, can it be?

ALL Come, they told me, parum pum pum pum, Our new born King to see, parum pum pum pum. � 6\Y�ÄULZ[�NPM[Z�^L�IYPUN��WHY\T�W\T�W\T�W\T�� To lay before the King, parum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum. So to honour Him, parum pum pum pum, when He come.

(33� )HI`�1LZ\��WHY\T�W\T�W\T�W\T�� I am a poor boy too, parum pum pum pum. I have no gift to bring, parum pum pum pum, � ;OH[»Z�Ä[�[V�NP]L�V\Y�2PUN��WHY\T�W\T�W\T�W\T�� rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum. Shall I play for you, parum pum pum pum, on my drum?

Manitoba Youth Choir and the New Brunswick Choral Federation Youth Sing. He has also worked as artistic director and advisor for the Algoma Festival Choir, the Nova Scotia 4HZZ�*OVPY�HUK�[OL�*OH[OHT�2LU[�9VV[Z�-LZ[P]HS��

Mr. Blyden-Taylor has served as a member of the teaching staff of the Faculty of Music, University of Toronto and the Faculty of Music, Queen’s University. He is a Master Teacher with the Toronto Board of Education, coaching teachers and students in conducting and choral technique, and was recently awarded an honourary Doctor of Laws degree from York University in Toronto.

Mr. Blyden-Taylor is also in constant demand as a Clinician, Adjudicator and Lecturer both nationally and internationally, working extensively across Canada and the United States of America, as well as in Cuba and France. He has also been invited to deliver workshops PU�1HWHU��;\YRL`�HUK� 0ZYHLS�� 0U�HKKP[PVU�4Y��)S`KLU�;H`SVY� PZ�HU�HJ[P]L�JO\YJO�T\ZPJPHU��serving currently as Music Director of St Timothy’s Anglican Church, North Toronto.

CTV’s Pauline Chan is a health reporter and host of a segment called “Lifetime” on CTV News at Six. Before that she ^HZ� [OL� SVUN�[PTL� JV�HUJOVY� VM� *;=�5L^Z� H[� ��!�� :OL»Z� HU�active participant in community events around Toronto, particularly for the Chinese and Filipino community and youth organizations.

Olivia Chow’s quest for a better society has been a lifelong journey that has taken her from Hong Kong to Toronto and one of the more extraordinary careers in Canadian politics. First as Trustee, then City Councillor, and now as a Member of Parliament, Olivia has been a tireless activist for the residents of Trinity-Spadina in downtown Toronto.

-PYZ[�LSLJ[LK�HZ�HU�47�PU�1HU\HY`�VM��6SP]PH�^HZ�YL�LSLJ[LK�in 2008 and again in May of 2011.

Olivia Chow had the rare distinction of being voted best Member of Parliament in 2010 and best city councillor seven times by the readers of NOW Magazine and best local politician four times by


Michael Bloss inhabits the twin worlds of Aviation (Flight Instructor) and Music. His more than 30 years of distinguished tradition of pastoral music ministry has included tenures as Director of Music Ministry at Glenview Presbyterian Church in Toronto, Dublin Street United Church in Guelph, [OL� *H[OLKYHS� *O\YJO� VM� :[�� 1HTLZ� PU� ;VYVU[V�� -PYZ[� �7HYR�*VUNYLNH[PVUHS�*O\YJO��.YHUK�9HWPKZ��40�HUK�;PTV[O`�,H[VU�Memorial Church, Toronto. He is an international competition winner (First Prize in the 1986 International Organ Competition at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and Preistrger at the � �� 0?�� 0U[LYUH[PVUHS� 1�:�� )HJO� 6YNHU� *VTWL[P[PVU� OLSK� PU�Leipzig, Germany), and has enjoyed special appearances with

the Toronto Symphony, Toronto Mendelssohn Choir, Hannaford Street Silver Band and at the 1993 International Congress of Organists in Montreal. Increasingly, he is in demand as an adjudicator and clinician in organ, piano and choral music at music festivals and workshops HJYVZZ�[OL�JV\U[Y �̀�/L�OHZ�HKQ\KPJH[LK�H[�[OL�7LLS��;VYVU[V��6[[H^H�HUK�:[��1VOU»Z�2P^HUPZ�-LZ[P]HSZ��/PZ�ZVSV�JHYLLY�OHZ�PUJS\KLK�ZVSV�]LU\LZ�PU�,\YVWL��1HWHU��[OL�<:��HUK�[OYV\NOV\[�Canada. His US. appearances have included performances at the Cadet Chapel, West Point, the Cleveland Museum of Art, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Detroit and Chicago’s Fourth Presbyterian *O\YJO�� 0U� HKKP[PVU��4Y��)SVZZ� OHZ�ILLU� MLH[\YLK�VU�*)*�9HKPV� HUK�;LSL]PZPVU��5H[PVUHS�7\ISPJ�9HKPV�HUK�:^PZZ�9HKPV�

Brainerd Blyden-Taylor is the Founder, Artistic Director and conductor VM� ;OL� 5H[OHUPLS� +L[[� *OVYHSL�� *HUHKH»Z� ÄYZ[� WYVMLZZPVUHS�chamber choir dedicated to the creation and performance of Afrocentric music of all styles. Born in Trinidad & Tobago, Mr. Blyden-Taylor immigrated to Canada in 1973. He founded The Chorale in 1998, in response to a musical void in Canada; there had never before been a professional ensemble dedicated to the dissemination of Afrocentric choral music. The response that The Chorale has received in Canada and the United States since its inception has certainly given credence to Mr. Blyden-Taylor’s vision.

Mr. Blyden-Taylor has conducted several university, youth and concert choirs, most notably completing a 25 year tenure with The Orpheus Choir of Toronto. In addition he works frequently as a guest conductor, having appeared with organizations such as the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Nova Scotia, Hannaford Street Silver Band, Nova Scotia Youth Choir, Ontario Youth Choir, Central

-69;,� ,]LY`�JOPSK�T\Z[�IL�THKL�H^HYL��L]LY`�JOPSK�T\Z[�IL�THKL�[V�JHYL�� care enough for his fellow man to give all the love that he can.

ALL Mary nodded, parum pum pum pum, The ox and lamb kept time, parum pum pum pum. I played my drum for Him, parum pum pum pum, I played my best for Him, parum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum. Then He smiled at me, parum pum pum pum, me and my drum.

-69;,� 0�WYH`�T`�^PZO�^PSS�JVTL�[Y\L�MVY�T`�JOPSK��HUK�`V\Y�JOPSK��[VV�� We’ll see the day of glory, See the day when men of goodwill live in peace, live in harmony. Peace on earth, can it be?

:PUN� 1V`M\SS`� JLSLIYH[LZ� V\Y� ��[O� ZLHZVU��our progress over these years past, and our continuing growth and vision. This recording demonstrates our capabilities over a wide range of musical repertoire and is truly representative of our history and our depth of talent.

0[� PZ�H]HPSHISL�[OPZ�L]LUPUN�MVY��VY�JHU�be ordered on line at www.forte-chorus.com



Special Guest Readers & Musicians Bios

A native of Yugoslavia, Aleksandar Antonijevic studied at the National Ballet School in Novi Sad and joined The National Ballet of Canada in 1991. He has been a Principal Dancer since 1995.

Mr. Antonijevic has danced in most of the major works in the company’s repertoire including principal roles in Giselle, 6ULNPU��9VTLV�HUK�1\SPL[��;OL�:SLLWPUN�)LH\[ �̀�3H�:`SWOPKL��Manon, The Seagull and numerous George Balanchine IHSSL[Z��PUJS\KPUN�(WVSSV��+PHTVUKZ�HUK�9\IPLZ�MYVT�1L^LSZ��Theme and Variations and Stravinsky Violin Concerto. He has danced lead roles in Opus 19/The Dreamer, the second detail, Forgotten Land, Etudes, Alice’s Adventures in >VUKLYSHUK�9\ZZPHU�:LHZVUZ�HUK�*OYVTH��/L�OHZ�JYLH[LK�ZL]LYHS� ZLTPUHS� YVSLZ� PU�^VYRZ�I`� 1HTLZ�2\KLSRH�� PUJS\KPUN�

Prince Ivan in The Firebird and Siegfried in Swan Lake.

An accomplished international guest artist, Mr. Antonijevic has performed with English 5H[PVUHS�)HSSL[��0UV\L�)HSSL[�1HWHU��)HSSL[�:HU[PHNV�VM�*OPSL�HUK�7(*;�)HSSL[�:V\[O�(MYPJH�HUK�OHZ�WHY[ULYLK�THU`�VM�[OL�̂ VYSK»Z�ÄULZ[�WYPTH�IHSSLYPUHZ��PUJS\KPUN�:\ZHU�1HMML��=P]HUH�Durante, Lucia LaCarra and Evelyn Hart.

Mr. Antonijevic is also a photographer. His work has been featured at CONTACT, Toronto’s annual international photography festival. He has had two exhibitions of his work and photographed the Principal Dancers for the 2011/12 Souvenir Book.

James Aylesworth began studying the violin at the age of six. During that ZHTL�`LHY�OL�ZH^�OPZ�ÄYZ[�IHSSL[��VWLYH�HUK�)YVHK^H`�T\ZPJHS��HUK�OPZ�M\[\YL�^HZ�WYL[[`�much set. He is currently a member of both the National Ballet and the Canadian Opera Company Orchestras and was also a member of Toronto’s Esprit Orchestra for ten years. 1HTLZ�OHZ�HSZV�WSH`LK�V]LY�H�[OV\ZHUK�WLYMVYTHUJLZ�VM�)YVHK^H`�ZOV^Z�YHUNPUN�MYVT�‘Anne of Green Gables’ to ‘West Side Story’.

In his spare time he enjoys playing with his theremin and taking candy from strangers.

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To Heliconian and BackOur annual cabaret

Heliconian Hall, 35 Hazelton Avenue (Yorkville)

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Songs My Brother Taught MeSpring concert

Church of the Holy Trinity, Trinity Square (Eaton Centre)

Upcoming Concerts


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Raffle Donations Generously Provided By...

;VUPNO[�^L�OH]L�HU�HZZVY[TLU[�VM��NPM[�IHZRL[Z��ÄSSLK�^P[O�NYLH[�P[LTZ�[V[HSSPUN��;PJRL[Z�MVY�[OL�KYH^�HYL�VU�ZHSL�ILMVYL�[OL�JVUJLY[�HUK�K\YPUN�PU[LYTPZZPVU��;PJRL[Z�HYL��MVY��OHSM�HYT»Z�SLUN[O�MVY��VY�H�M\SS�HYT»Z�SLUN[O�MVY��(M[LY�`V\�purchase tickets simply place one side in the bowl in front of

the basket you want to win. Keep the other half to prove

it is yours! You can enter as many times as you

wish. At the end of intermission the draw will take

place. Baskets can be picked up on your way out.

Gift Basket Raffle

If any donors were overlooked we sincerely apologize but please know that your donation is sincerely appreciated.


Acknowledgements and Special Thanks

The Gentlemen of Forte invite their guests to join them for a post-concert reception at the Churchmouse and Firkin, (corner of Church and Maitland Streets).

�� *+�[HISL� �YHMÅL�[PJRL[Z!�Paul McCrossin Gloria Mucci, Barbara Pigliacelli, Graceanne Poloni, Mayura Rajan, Terry Ryan, Walter Sherman, Brent Southin, and Boo Thompson

�� -YVU[� VM� OV\ZL!� Sandra Carmona, John Currie, Micheline Montgomery, and Yan Montgomery

�� .YLL[LYZ!�Randy Mulrooney and Tanya Schrek

�� <ZOLYZ!� ;OL� Z[\KLU[Z� VM� [OL� Cawthra Park Secondary School for the Performing Arts: Olivia Frasson, Kenene Gallant, Zack Hamilton, Chris Jones, Michael Lobovsky, Arjun Sawhney and Harry Vetro; with Jody Malone, staff liaison

�� Jarlen Caden, for providing social media advice and design of this programme

�� Vince J. Ciarlo, for his publicity services

�� Ian Kirkland & striped maple Web Development, for their web design and development services

�� Mark Le Messurier and Carlos Meléndez, for their graphic design services

�� Dylan Neild, for providing sound/audio & lighting for this evening’s program

�� Medlar Productions Film Crew, for video-capturing this evening’s program

�� Metropolitan United Church, for use of accessories

�� Raymond Tizzard, Managing Director, True North Brass, for providing Forte with the accompanying brass ensemble heard this evening

�� Moses Znaimer, founder ZoomerMedia, for his great contribution to our marketing program

Forte would like to thank the many individuals who helped to make this evening possible. While we try to acknowledge everyone who has contributed, we realize that some may have been missed and apologize for this oversight.

Spec

ial G

uest

s Brass True North Brass - ;Y\TWL[Z!�Anita McAlister, Brindley Venables�;YVTIVULZ!�Rachel Thomas, Megan HodgeDrummer Akufuna SifubaOrganist/Pianist Michael Bloss9LHKLYZ� � Aleksandar Antonijevic, Brainerd Blyden-Taylor, Pauline Chan, Olivia Chow, Marilyn LIghtstoneViolinist James Aylesworth


From the Music Director3LNLUK�OHZ�P[�[OH[�[OL�ÄYZ[�-LZ[P]HS�VM�3LZZVUZ�HUK�Carols took place on December 24, 1880, the

brainchild of the Bishop of Truro, who planned it as

a means of keeping local men out of the pubs on

Christmas Eve.

True story or not, we’re delighted you’re not in the

pubs tonight, and have instead joined us for All

Is Calm, All Is Bright. These two themes, one of

peaceful contemplation and goodwill, the other of

True Light coming into the dark, are hardly restricted

to the Christian festival we now call Christmas.

Throughout the ages, celebrations surrounding the

darkest days of the year have held to similar themes.

Today, around the world, diverse cultures celebrate

^P[O� MLZ[P]HSZ� Z\JO� HZ� /HU\RRHO�� 9HTHKHU��Kwanza, Yuletide, Solstice and a host of others, all

celebrating peace on earth, goodwill to all, and the

great day that dawns.

Mr. Connell has been the

Music Director of Forte—The

Toronto Men’s Chorus, since

2002. During his tenure, he

has led Forte through several

highly-successful concerts,

[V\YZ�HZ�MHY�HÄLSK�HZ�6[[H^H�and Vancouver, and deep

into the realms of classical

music. Anyone listening to

the chorus will immediately

recognize the artistry and

personality of his extraordinary

musical leadership, which has

led to Forte’s reknown in the

Canadian choral world.

The brainchild for tonight’s event came from Forte’s president, Stuart Watson, himself a

Catholic priest of generously ecumenical leanings. As Forte makes its way through a wide

selection of familiar and unfamiliar seasonal selections, we know that our understanding of

the music, and indeed of the season, will be greatly illuminated by the generous and gifted

individuals who join us to read from traditional and non-traditional sources, and who play

so beautifully upon horn and pipe and string and drum.

And afterward, please feel free to repair to the local pub, and raise a pint or two to the

NVVK^PSS�VM�[OL�O\THU�ZWPYP[��[V�WLHJL�VU�LHY[O��HUK�[V�[OL�SPNO[�[OH[�ÄSSZ�[OL�^VYSK�

Edward Connell

Perform in incredible places.

Work with and meet very interesting people...

Audition for Forte!

Yes... we want you!

Auditions for the 2012 season will take place on

January 3 and 4, 2012*

For more information, go to: www.forte-chorus.com

To book an audition date & time, please e-mail: [email protected] or speak with any chorus member

*Alternative audition dates can be arranged if necessary.


Forte came together in 1997 after the 3 founders attended a Gay and Lesbian Chorus Association (GALA) festival in Tampa and simply fell in love with the sound of a men’s chorus. For the next 14 years, Forte has consistently entertained with an annual Holiday/Winter show, followed by a Spring concert or cabaret series, as well as touring and participating in many community events such as [OL� 6MÄJPHS� 7YPKL�>LLR� -SHN� 9HPZPUN� JLYLTVU �̀� HUU\HS�AIDS Vigil, national and international choral festivals, and performing with artists such as Margaret Cho, Billy Newton Davis, and Mary McCandless.

Forte is now a 36-voice men’s chamber choir under the SLHKLYZOPW� VM� ,K^HYK� *VUULSS�� VUL� VM� *HUHKH»Z� ÄULZ[�choral directors. Its membership is drawn primarily from Toronto’s talented and diverse gay community.

In 2008, Forte was a National Semi-Finalist in Choral �� [OL� IP�HUU\HS� *)*� 5H[PVUHS� 9HKPV�*HUHKH�Competition for Amateur Choirs, and a National Finalist in the 2010 National Choral Competition!

Wayne BallChristopher Brown

Pablo CalderonKenneth Chu

Peter KrochakPeter Nielsen

Steve Pigliacelli

Alex ElliottBrian FultonPatrick Lam

Alex MozoPeter Mutnan

Dan ScottColin Tan

Jarlen CadenPhil DoironFarrell Hall

Tony HamillEric Lahey

Trevor McLainCarlos Meléndez

Tom SpenceJean Claude Ting

Rick Vaughan

Alvin GomezJeremy Lim

Glenn MosherStewart Montgomery

Mark Le MessurierDrew Post

Tyler SchulzStuart Watson

Lawrence Wraith

Tenor 1Tenor 2

Baritone

Bass

Music Director Edward ConnellAbout

Find us on Facebook under Forte - The Toronto Men’s Chorus. Like our page to get the latest news and information on upcoming concerts.

President Stuart WatsonMembership Tyler SchulzMarketing Ken ChuVP Artistic Peter KrochakTreasurer Patrick LamVP Fundraising Christopher BrownMember-at-Large Tony Hamill

boardmembers

Welcome to “All Is Calm, All Is Bright,” Forte’s December concert in our 15th season. We are delighted you are here to join us and our wonderful guests on this special evening. In a break with tradition we are featuring both the spoken word and songs of the season. Intentionally focussing on the Christmas season and the reading of the nativity story we are also matching them with readings from alternative sources marking similar themes common across traditions. Indeed, all of what we will read and sing this evening shares the common themes that are universal and point to the quest of all people for peace, joy and quiet expressed most clearly at this time of year.

You will see that the choir has grown this season as we welcome several new members. Most likely there are new audience members as well joining us MVY� [OL� ÄYZ[� [PTL�� (� ZWLJPHS�welcome to you to the Forte family. We hope that this evening will be one of many more to come. Over P[Z� ÄM[LLU� `LHYZ� -VY[L� OHZ�continued to grow in many

ways with each season being a critical step in a great journey. That growth continues to be inspired by our director Edward Connell who marks his 10th anniversary with us this evening. His tireless efforts on behalf of the chorus remain second to none. His distinct way of turning challenge into opportunity makes membership in the choir a lot of work but also a tremendous joy for which members and audience can all be grateful.

We are especially grateful to our guest readers and our accompanists. They come from a large range of public life. We thank each and every one of them for the special contribution this evening.

Performing is the joy of all who you will see ‘on stage’ tonight. That joy is impossible without you, our audience and supporters. Thank you for all that you our supporters do both tonight and throughout the year.

Every blessing to all in this Season of Seasons

Stuart Watson

President

ContentsAbout Forte | 2

From the Music Director | 3

Acknowledgements | 4

Donors | 5

Special Guest Bios | 7

Programme | 13

O Come, O Come Emmanuel | 15

In the Bleak Midwinter | 15

Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes | 16

Good King Wenceslas | 17

Carol of the Drum | 18

President’s Message - Dec 2011

Documents

All Is CalmAll Is Bright