Saskatoon choir invites public to workshop on New Year’s carols

by Audrey Bayduza

September14, 2007 -- For those of you who are regretting the passing of summer -- those of you who are wishing we could spend a bit more time sitting on the back deck, enjoying the flowers and reading Harry Potter -- the Голоси Adult Choir has a special invitation.

On November 5 and 12, the choir will be offering a two-part workshop on щедрівки (shchedrivky). The workshop will explore the history and development of these New Year’s carols, how they differ from коляди, and their very special place in our Christmas traditions.

Much of the summer has gone into collecting as many of these New Year’s carols as possible, both traditional and contemporary, and the workshop will focus on learning simple choral arrangements of a number of them. In keeping with the oral tradition behind these carols, we may even compose a few of our own!

Generously supported by the UCC-SPC and Saskatchewan Lotteries, the two sessions of the workshop will take place at the Ilarion Residence, 2509 Louise Street, Saskatoon from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost of registration for those who are not members of the choir is $15 for an individual session and $20 for two sessions. Pre-registration is not necessary, but do let us know if you plan to attend so that we can ensure that enough handouts are prepared for all who come. You can pre-register by contact Audrey Bayduza at bayduza(at)sasktel(dot)net.

So finish up that last chapter of Harry Potter and mark the dates in your calendars now.

This workshop will be just one of several activities taken on by this choir over the fall term. We have been invited back to perform at the Festival of Trees. Although last year’s performance was a first for us, it was very well received -- and it is hoped this year’s performance will not coincide with a blizzard!

Last year we were also able to carol at St. Joseph’s Nursing Home on New Year’s Day itself and we hope to be able to bring some of the spirit of that season to residents of St. Joseph’s again this year -- and this year we will have prepared all those щедрівки from our workshop!

Our choir always welcomes new members. Don’t let winter get you down. There’s nothing like some singing to warm both the body and the spirit. Regular rehearsals are Mondays evenings at the Ilarion Residence. Please contact Audrey Bayduza at bayduza(at)sasktel(dot)net, if you are interested in joining or would like more information.