We Sang Our Songs, Chor Leoni’s 31st annual Remembrance Day concerts, begins the ensembles new season, November 10 at 7:30pm, and November 11 at 2pm and 5pm, at St. Andrew’s-Wesley United Church.
We Sang Our Songs offers a moving program of music and readings featuring diverse perspectives on war and injustice. Highlights include works by Gustav Holst, Arvo Pärt, and William Grant Still. The 65 voices of Chor Leoni will also sing Mykola Lysenko’s “Molytva Za Ukrainu” (Prayer for Ukraine), and world premieres by composer Stacey Philipps and the choir’s Composer in Residence, Don Macdonald.
One of the choir’s most cherished traditions resonating with audiences across Canada for three decades, Chor Leoni’s Remembrance Day concerts have created important moments of community contemplation and reflection.
“This year’s program goes beyond simply lamenting the atrocities of war and explores the many aspects of peacemaking,” says Artistic Director Erick Lichte. “The works of the concert and the readings provided by members of the Chor Leoni community bring together the idea that the hope for peace in the world goes hand in hand with the hope for equity, respect, and love between people.”
While several the pieces of the program will feature the choir’s acclaimed a cappella sound, audiences will also hear the voices of Chor Leoni accompanied by St. Andrew’s-Wesley’s new Steinway Model D piano, as well as the newly restored Casavant organ, played by Tina Chang and Jane Kim, respectively. The choir will also be joined by Katherine Evans on trumpet.
“This Remembrance Day, we celebrate all those who fought abroad and domestically for a freer world,” says Lichte. “Through music, we remind ourselves that in order to truly honour those that fought for freedom, we must continue to fight for freedom at home and in the world, lest their sacrifice be in vain. We honour all who gave of themselves, who served their country and their humanity, in the hope for peace.”
Join the Juno-nominated Chor Leoni and the community to contemplate, reflect, and dream of peace on November 10 and 11 for We Sang Our Songs at St. Andrew’s-Wesley United (1022 Nelson St). For tickets and more show information, visit chorleoni.org