Cantabile Connection Choir with “Many Gifts” Before Christmas
The loft in front of the gold and yellow hues of Zion’s majestic Casavant organ will be completely filled when the Cantabile Connection Choir performs. The group has grown to about 45 voices and when they sing in four parts, it is a great show. The choir is gearing for an Advent concert called “Many Gifts of Praise.” It will be held on Sunday, December 2 at 3pm in the sanctuary of Zion United Church. Dorothy Yakiwchuk is the director of Cantabile, and while she was away on vacation, choir soprano Diane Bruck conducted rehearsals. Bruck spoke about the meaning of the title, “Many Gifts”. She said, “It is reference to the different types of music we will offer at the concert. It will be quite eclectic. There will be folk songs and spirituals, and the last half will be Christmas music.” Cantabile’s signature song is entitled “Many Gifts.” The choir was invited to sing this piece in the Saskatchewan Legislature for the induction of Lorne Calvert as premier of the province. They have picked it up again for performance this Advent. The words “many gifts” have one further reference. “Along with the many beautiful voices,” said Bruck, “there are choir members who play a variety of instruments. Sarah Pouteaux is Cantabile’s piano accompanist, and there is also a flautist, violinist, guitarist, a saxophone player and a bell choir. All of these will be part of the concert.” “Many Gifts” will be shared in this Advent event, and you won’t want to miss it. Advance tickets will be in circulation a couple of weeks before the performance. You can purchase tickets at the Zion United Church office, 423 Main St. North (692-3842) or from any Cantabile member. They are $10 in advance and $12 at the door.