Having graced British TV screens, BBC Radio and concert hall stages throughout the UK as a classically trained musician, Daniel Justin knows how to please a crowd.
But in his first year leading the choir at this year’s Carols at the Cathedral, Daniel is hoping to surprise his audience as well.
“I think it’s important to give people the traditional carols they know and love, but I’ve gone for a few left field pieces that people certainly won’t expect from a cathedral choir,” Daniel told The Catholic Weekly when we caught up with him this week at St Mary’s Music Department.
“For example, one of the works featured in the Christmas concert even has body percussion. And we’re also being joined by the amazing Sinfonia Australis,” Daniel added, referring to the early music ensemble that plays on period instruments.
All will be revealed at two concert performances on the 18 December at 11am and 7pm as the event makes its triumphant comeback. Daniel says the performances are the first to be held at St Mary’s Cathedral in two years.
“I’m pretty excited. This is a great opportunity to come back bigger and better, with some new, and exciting pieces.”
Tradition will be a key theme of the event, as Daniel delves into the rich history of Christmas Carols to charm the audience.
“We’ve got a huge amount of music to get through. We’re singing carols from the early 16th century, right the way through to carols that have been composed more recently and some pieces which were only written about two years ago. So, there’s a full spectrum of music for everyone to enjoy,” Daniel said.
As musical director, Daniel began preparing for the upcoming concert in March.
“This is a really important event for the Cathedral and for the city. It’s something you can’t rush.”
When The Catholic Weekly visited the music school, Daniel was taking the scholars and choristers, all under 18, through their paces.
“This is this is a good opportunity for them to socialise and to get used to singing with each other again,” said Daniel.
For many of the new faces in the choir, this will be an entirely new and daunting experience. Daniel is on hand to ensure its not an overwhelming one.
“There are several boys who will remember the previous concerts from two years ago, but quite a lot of them are new and have never sung in front of such a large audience and in a setting with all the lights and a professional orchestra. So, it’s good to prepare them for what’s coming. But I think they’re quite excited.”
One could argue the only other person more excited than the 13 choristers working through the Christmas song book is Daniel himself, who in his first year as musical director, welcomes the weight of expectation that comes with such a beloved event in such an iconic setting.
“There is that living tradition of music here, coupled with the beauty of the building, the magic of Christmas, a touch of Christmas sparkle with the orchestra, some lights and those incredible timeless songs. My hope is that all together, as we head into the hustle and bustle of the season, our music will spin people into a real Christmas spirit.”
Tickets available from here.