Kingston College Chapel Choir Gala Christmas Concert
By Dr. Robert Wan
The 2023 Christmas Gala Concert was held at the UWI Chapel in Mona on December 17. Prior to the start of the concert, attendees were served cocktails for which wine was donated by KCOB Sing Chin of the Super Valu chain of stores.
Our emcee was KCOB Ian Wilkinson KC who masterfully guided us through the event.
During the programme, the choir presented plaques of appreciation to Madam Marguerita Hall, vice principal, and Carol Cuffley for their hard work and unwavering support over many years.
Special guests in attendance included former Governor General Sir Kenneth Hall and Lady Hall who is a former member of staff at the school and sister of well-known KCOB, Michael Holding. The Archbishop of the West Indies, The Right Reverend Dr. Howard Gregory was also present and gave us the blessing at the end of the event.
The preparation for the Christmas Concerts began in July at the start of the summer break. This year the choir again spent a week at St. Hilda’s High School in Browns Town for its annual camp to start learning the music.
In September, Audley Davidson, choir director, again auditioned and recruited incoming students for the new treble line. Rehearsal continued up to concert time.
In the meantime, the choir fulfilled other engagements including the school’s annual family service, graduation and prize giving. This year, like many others, the choir was requested to sing at weddings, funerals and other occasions.
This school term we performed at the funerals of former chaplain, Canon Abner Powell and prominent KCOB Prof. Winston (Winty) Davidson.
For this year’s Christmas Concert, Choir Director Davidson chose Vivaldi’s Magnificat as the major work. The chamber orchestra was led by Paulette Bellamy, wife of KCOB Barry Bellamy. The programme also included other well-known Christmas music.
This year’s concert was well attended, and the audience fully enjoyed an evening of excellent music.
This event is possible only because of sponsorship to cover expenses. The choir is grateful to all donors including KCOBA chapters in Jamaica, USA, Canada, UK and Europe.