As Sydneysider amble their way through “Black Friday” sales and overcrowded shopping malls, comfort and joy might feel in short supply.
Thankfully the choir of St Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney, is bringing a desperately needed dose of Christmas cheer through Carols at the Cathedral, held in the cathedral on 18 December.
Music director, Daniel Justin says at Christmas time, it’s natural that people want to hear traditional carols, so there are expectations.
“They come to St Mary’s knowing what they want to hear, and we will deliver that, but we also want to challenge the audience as well,” Daniel said.
The 2024 Christmas Concert will be a last-of-its-kind event; from 2025, in its bicentennial year, St Mary’s Cathedral College goes co-ed.
“This is an historical opportunity,” says Daniel. “We will be only the second cathedral in Australia with a girls’ choir. We’ve already recruited 20 girl choristers, and they’ve been coming in for training sessions once a month, just so they can get a foot in the door and see how things work here.
“The choirs will have their own separate identities and, to a certain extent, separate repertoire as well.”
Grateful to be a part of history is Anthony Spata, Managing Director of Reach HR, a specialist provider of recruitment services with expertise in faith-based organisations, who are one of the sponsors of the event.
“We are proud to partner with St Mary’s Cathedral and the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney in this event,” Anthony said.
“Christmas is one of the most beautiful times on the Catholic Church’s liturgical calendar. Reach HR are not only professionally involved in liturgical events but personally involved in their own local parishes. Not only are we sponsors, but we can’t wait to hear these amazing voices in Sydney’s mother church,” said Anthony.
Catholic Super are another sponsor that is proud to support the event.
“Catholic Super is delighted to be able to support the Carols at the Cathedral this year,” said John Cotter, Head of Employer Relations at Catholic Super.
“As a super fund dedicated to those in the Catholic community, we welcome the opportunity to partner with Archdiocese of Sydney for such a highly anticipated event,”
Carols at the Cathedral will be performed at 11am and 7pm on 18 December at St Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney.
To purchase tickets go here.
