It's going to be another awe inspiring performance by the Antonian Chorale this Christmas. Ninety melodious voices representing the primary and the collegiate departments of St. Anthony's College, Kandy will come alive and sing in harmony on December 15, at 5:30pm at St. Anthony's Cathedral, performing Light From Heaven.
This occasion will be graced by His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Vianney Fernando, Bishop of Kandy and the President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Sri Lanka. As usual, the Antonians' will add something special this time too, with a multi-lingual service of Advent and Christmas Carols. An added significance is reflected in the students who represent all four major religions join together to present the message of peace.
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The Choir of St. Anthony's College, Kandy has a long history going back to the early forties of the previous century. It was directed by the Benedictine monks who guided the destinies of this remarkable institution which has been in existence for the past 155 years serving the global community in many ways. The era of the Antonian Chorale under the guidance of Mr. Cyril Brown saw the emergence of the Choir as a professional unit, spreading its musical chimes throughout the country. After a laps of 28–years the Choir of St. Anthony's came into the forefront of choral music when they won the All Island Competition. The impact of this land mark achievement was so strong that from then on their journey has been miraculous.
The trade mark concert of the Antonians On Eagle's Wings is a much awaited annual event. This year they completed their fourth successive performance both in Kandy and Colombo, and are ready to go on stage next January. Another milestone in their achievements is the launching of their maiden album, 'Antonian Melodies' in January 2008. At present the Choir is directed by Rev. Fr. Araliya Jayasundara OSB, who continues in the line of that rich Benedictine Gregorian Tradition.
With this eventful past, the Antonian Chorale is embarking on yet another meaningful and timely venture in presenting Light from Heaven 2008, a multi-lingual service of Advent and Christmas Carols. The performance will include traditional carols such as "O Holy Night," "O Come All Ye Faithful" and "The First Noel"; as well as Latin classics such as "Ave Maria" "Pie Iesu," "Christe Redemptor." It will undoubtedly be a grace-filled experience for the congregation when they sing in honor of the late Jachome Gonsalves. A unique performance during the concert will be the famous Nigerian Christmas Carol "Betelehemu." All in all, Light from Heaven has all the ingredients to be yet another fascinating performance by the Antonian Chorale. This concert is open for all free of charge. There will be a collection made in view of helping underprivileged children.
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