Orpheus Singers present a concert not to be missed

The concert Hosianna: A German Christmas will be performed this Saturday, Dec. 9 at St. Matthias’ Church. As the title indicates, this year’s offering features selections by German composers.

According to the choir’s conductor, Peter Schubert, the audience will be treated to “motets by Bach and Brahms, Lutheran Mass movements by Praetorius, a Magnificat by Jakob Handl stuffed with popular carols and music by our new discovery of the year, the unknown 17th-century composer Johann Hermann Schein.�

While the concert will feature some familiar carols, such as a unique arrangement of the classic, Twelve Days of Christmas, the Orpheus Singers have always prided themselves on finding selections that are often unknown or overlooked.

This year’s inclusion of pieces by Schein is an example of just that.

“We like that kind of music,� said Helen Rainville, a 13-year veteran of the choir. “That’s fun for us... it’s a challenge.�

Last Sunday, the Orpheus Singers delighted an audience at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts with a condensed version of this weekend’s show.

St. Matthias’ imposing pipe organ will only serve as a backdrop for the choir this year, as the performance will be strictly a cappella. According to Rainville, the singers are happy to be performing at St. Matthias’, which has served as their practice venue this past year, saying its acoustics are ideal for choral music.

The Orpheus Singers are 23 members strong and as always, is made up of both professional and amateur musicians. While auditions are required to join, you don’t have to be a pro to try out. “It’s a real mix,� said Rainville. “We’ve got some young McGill music students in there.�

Over the years they have been five time finalists for CBC’s National Radio Competition for Amateur Choirs, earning a first prize in 1996 and a second place prize in 2004.



• Hosianna: A German Christmas takes place Saturday, Dec. 9 at 8 p.m. at St. Matthias’ Church, 131 Côte St. Antoine Rd. Tickets cost $16 ($12 for students) at the door. For more information, call 514-846-8464.