For many around the world, A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols from King's College Cambridge, marks the beginning of Christmas. For many of us also, it is something experienced from afar as it is broadcast on TV or radio. But here is an option to experience the legendary A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols service of biblical readings and music at St James' Anglican Church, right here in Vancouver. It is perfect for this traditional Christmas service, as the building is not only visually inspiring, but also acoustically supports the voices of congregation, choir, and organ. Come and celebrate the season with this beloved service or readings and music in the tradition of King's College, Cambridge. This is a free event, though donations will be gratefully accepted to defray expenses. As space is limited, please click on the button below to reserve your seat.
This Vancouver-based ensemble of young singers was founded five years ago by its artistic director David Poon. Their repertoire is dedicated to quality sacred music for church services. In collaboration with Belle Vocia cappella ensemble, they have performed in parishes in Greater Vancouver, the Lower Mainland, and the Sunshine Coast. MOTET has presented The Twelve Days of Christmas : Real Christmas carols during real Christmastide in Vancouver for several years, with music from Gregorian Chant, Palestrina, and JS Bach, to favourites by Sir David Willcocks and music by Canadian composer Sarah MacDonald, who is Director of Music at Selwyn College, Cambridge.
A consummate church musician, David Poon is sought after as an organist, choirmaster, continuo player, and accompanist. Although his primary training involved interpreting notes written by dead Europeans, he often indulges in realising baroque bass lines, improvising over jazz standards, and extemporising on Gregorian chants. As a Roman Catholic, he strives to reform church liturgy, restoring beautiful sacred music to its proper function.David is currently assistant organist at St John's Vancouver Anglican Church; pianist for Choralations and Pender Harbour Community Choir; and music director for Coast Messiah Choir, MOTET chamber choir, and Vespersong. His transcription projects include barless editions of Tomkins' sacred works, video game boss battle music, and Messiaen for viols. Outside of teaching, performing, arranging, and composing, his interests include owning too many board games, judging Magic tournaments, and inflicting modes of limited transposition upon his wife and three young children.