The Campbell River Singers and Conductor John Montgomery invite you all to their 41st annual Christmas Celebration on Saturday Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m., at the Campbell River Baptist Church.

This year the Singers will have Quintessence Brass Quintet as their special guest performers. The group was formed 32 years ago by five brass players, two trumpets, a French horn, a trombone, and a tuba, who had a love for music of all types. Today, the members have changed but the joy in making music together is still present whenever they perform. They will be playing some pieces from their repertoire and accompanying the Singers on four Christmas favourites originally recorded by The Canadian Brass.

The choir will also be performing a selection of pieces from Handel’s Messiah including the moving and monumental ‘Hallelujah’ chorus accompanied by Lynn Montgomery on piano and Roger Kirk on trumpet.

Following the crowd pleasing success of last years’ cantata “Hope!”, Montgomery has selected this gospel Christmas Celebration by the same composer, Joel Raney, entitled “Joy!” as the finale of the evening. The work will be accompanied by a 16-piece ensemble orchestra of talented local musicians from Courtenay and Campbell River including their own piano accompanist, Lynn Montgomery, and assistant conductor, Shelley Roberts.

“Joy!” tells the Christmas story through six choral anthems in a variety of styles based on both familiar Christmas carols and original material. There are upbeat blues-gospel numbers as well as slower ballads in the gospel groove, and even one calypso tune.

These folks love to sing it, so it is guaranteed to bring the joy of the season to their audience.

Tickets available at the Music Plant (recommended) and at the door.