National Concert Hall Christmas Family Gala

Wesley’s Senior Choir were guests of the Dublin County Choir on December 11th this year in the magnificent surrounds of the National Concert Hall, continuing the Advent Season in fantastic style.  Stepping onstage for rehearsal was special as the choir soaked up the atmosphere - lights and decorations sparkled all around the marvellous hall and the Christmas spirit was definitely in the air.  A cold evening did not keep the crowds away and Senior Choir, warmly introduced by soprano Niamh Murray, entertained a packed auditorium with John Rutter's sparkling Christmas carol Jesus Child, recently recorded for Lyric FM, but first Éamonn Ó'Gallchobhair's hauntingly beautiful, but little-known, setting of AnTeitheadh go hÉigipt, The Flight into Egypt.  The Choir sang with exceptional beauty and sensitivity; they were simply exquisite in their renditions of these seasonal pieces, demonstrating consummate professionalism at all times on stage.  

The DCC's Family Christmas Gala was a colourful evening catering for all musical tastes and brimming with Christmas joy and magic.  Senior Choir took the stage once again in the second half to lead the finale beginning with a version of Adeste Fideles specially arranged for that very evening by conductor Helen Doyle before finishing with a really powerful setting of the Christmas classic, O Holy Night.  Under the baton of DCC’s conductor John Dexter, the full ensemble of orchestra, piano, organ, Dublin County Choir, Wesley’s Senior Choir and the wonderful soloist Niamh Murray won over the audience completely in this final number.  A standing ovation followed and the house lights went up, signalling the end of a marvellous evening's entertainment.  We are very grateful to have been part of such a wonderful occasion with the Dublin County Choir and will always remember our Christmas experience in the National Concert Hall.