After a busy semester of studying and singing, the University Singers of the University of Manitoba still have a few more songs to sing to get Winnipeggers into the holiday mood. Carollers from the choir will be performing throughout the city on December 19, starting with a visit to the Classic 107 studios.
“It’s always such a great time to get together after our final concert has finished,” says alto Isla Shea, pointing out that the holidays are a time to welcome new ensemble members into the fold to help spread holiday cheer.
After their performance at Classic 107, the group will perform for the residence of the Bolton Retirement Home before ending their day singing for holiday shoppers at The Forks. The group will perform a wide range of carols from well-loved favourites like “Away in a Manger” to original versions of other carols including the Ukrainian version of the “Carol of the Bells” by Mykola Leontovych.
“It’s been really nice getting to do quite a lot of Ukrainian music,” says soprano Sandra Goetz. “Connecting with some of these holiday carols and different languages that may have been unfamiliar to us before has been rewarding.”
“Every time we get to sing new music or old music or familiar music, we always learn something new about it,” adds Shea. “It develops a new meaning for us."
The University Singers are looking forward to sharing more meaningful music with audiences in the new year at events like their annual fundraiser, which will take place in the Desautels Concert Hall. You can learn more about the fundraiser and other events by following them on Instagram.