Yesterday was December 1st.  It was quite an important day.

Firstly, December 1st marks the start of our summer, and by the look of the forecast for the next few days, it will prove an accurate marker.

Secondly, the eagerly anticipated December edition of Limelight Magazine was published, so now we can all have our own copy of Naomi’s wonderful article on community choirs and the Manly Warringah Choir in particular.

Thirdly, the final rehearsal for this weekend’s concerts went like a breeze, which was such a relief after the stresses and strains of Tuesday’s session in the unhelpful acoustic of the big school hall.  What happens between two such rehearsals cannot be explained.  Somehow all the loose parts which had been flailing around separately in space came together and slotted each into its own place with precision and no small degree of aplomb.  We made Stella Natalis sound like music – music with a message.  The message alternates around themes which are appropriate to the time of year and to our times in general; those of joy, wonder, peace and love.

However, it was sad that, for only the second time since Carlos took up the baton for MWC, his beloved wife Alexandra was not leading the orchestra.  Her place was ably taken by Catrina Hughes, Alexandra’s friend and colleague in a number of prestigious Australian orchestras and ensembles.  The themes of peace and love were very apparent as we presented Carlos with a DVD of the Choir and orchestra performing Lullay from Stella Natalis to take for Alexandra with our love and very best wishes.  Along with the practical assistance which members of the Choir have offered them recently we wanted to send a message reflecting the esteem in which we hold her and expressing our love for her and for all she means to us.

This weekend, Alexandra may not physically be with us, but we know that she will be with us in spirit. For our part, as we perform Jenkins’ quirky music with its profound message, we will certainly all be thinking of her and sending her our love.