This is artistic director Caroline Crispin’s second year helming St. Albert Singers Community Choir, and she’s displaying more confidence in herself and in the 60 plus choristers she describes as “family.”
The biggest change for Crispin is accompanist Jaime Johansson has stepped up as assistant director. Johansson has an extensive background in music, performing 15 years with Edmonton Musical Theatre.
"We work well together. We collaborate on everything. And since she's already the accompanist, it made sense we create the program together and bounce ideas off each other. A concert can take on a life of its own, and it takes a great deal of energy," Crispin said.
Following in the footsteps of a 38-year-old choral tradition, the duo planned Countdown to Christmas, a salute to a holiday that although frantic, is eagerly anticipated every year. This year’s Countdown to Christmas plays out as a double-bill at the Arden Theatre on Sunday, Dec. 8.
“The first song I picked was Countdown to Christmas. It’s about the frenetic energy, the cooking, the cleaning, and then there’s the chaos that turns into joy when family and friends arrive,” said Crispin.
The Mixed Choir and St. Albert Women’s Vocal Ensemble’s (SAWVE) 20 songs will touch on essential seasonal elements such as family, friends, traditions and the reason for the season.
“I went into this looking at Christmas traditions. But I find I liked a holistic approach — the things we do to get ready, and the things we do for others who don’t have anyone. And I thought about peace, how everyone is always welcome. It doesn’t matter where you come from. You are welcome.”
There is a loose story connecting the songs about a harried housewife who has so many things to do, she’s frazzled prior to festivities. Two friends come to the rescue and remind her Christmas is more about sharing family love than striving for perfection.
Crispin has shaped two multicultural sets that resonate with images of Europe, Africa, North America and South America. One of the first songs performed is Umoja Tunaimba, a Swahili song about the seven pillars of unity.
Another infectious song is Idina Menzel’s Hanukha/Christmas song At This Table. It’s a song about people coming together and sharing a meal, a conversation or a moment. More importantly it’s a song about accepting diversity.
The program also features a few angsty holiday songs such as the jazzy In the Mood, The Christmas Shopping Blues, On Christmas Night and Christmas Time.
The second set settles on some fun, lighthearted melodies such as Christmas List and Patapan Salsa, a high-spirited Latin dance.
“This concert makes you laugh," Crispin said. "You will be able to relate to every part of it. There’s something for everyone. Come out here for a wonderful time and get ready for the season."
Countdown to Christmas concerts take place at the Arden Theatre on Sunday, Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Tickets range from $12 to $27 and include GST. Call 780-459-1542 or visit tickets.stalbert.ca.
