Now in its nineteenth season, the St. Augustine’s Chorale made another sterling performance of Christmas music and song on Sunday, December 29th 2019, at the St. Augustine’s Anglican Church in East End. At the end of it all, it was considered a top-notch presentation.
Last Sunday’s performance was the season’s second presentation, the first being on Sunday, December 22nd. To introduce the renowned cantata, a prelude of Marvin Winans’ “Let the Church say Amen” was rendered by Gordon Hazel, as the Chorale members made a graceful entrance into the auditorium. (On the previous Sunday “Let the Church Say Amen” was sung by Ruel Connor.)
Following the processional entry of the Chorale, a fervent prayer was made by Julian Daniel, after which the St. Augustine’s Youth Choir, directed by Amelia Vantetrpool-kubisch and Sandra Liddie-Gumbs, delivered three stirring renditions. These were admirably appreciated by the full-capacity audience in the auditorium.
Then, led by the proficient directorship of Lennox Vanterpool, the Chorale once again took charge of the stage to perform the works of Randy Vader, Jay Riuse and Rose Aspinall in a collection of ten songs dubbed “And on Earth Peace”. Each selection was gracefully rendered with passion and spirit, and each one gained rich rounds of applause from the enthused audience. Narrations were provided by Elvarie Vanterpool and Rondy Isles-Carty.
Among the immaculate pieces was the stirring rendition of “I’m Yours (Magnificat)” featuring Sandra Liddie-Gumbs as Mary and Julian Daniel depicting Joseph. This was followed by a spectacular rendering of a harmonious version of the traditional “Do you Hear What I Hear”.
Following the cantata, The Anguillian spoke with the Director, Mr. Vanterpool, who was thrilled and gratified over the success of yet another high level performance. He stated: “The voice of ‘And on Earth Peace’ was birthed out of a desire to comfort and assure ourselves, our congregations, and our audiences, that the peace of God is still with us.
“Through every trying circumstance, and through every uncertainty, the Psalmist declares that the Lord of Hosts is with us, and the God of Jacob is our stronghold. It is important for the believer to experience this peace which passes even our own comprehension.”
Mr. Vanterpool added: “I wish to thank the community for once again supporting us in another rich performance which conveys the peace of God’s presence. I am pleased with the spirit that has accompanied our inspiring presentations. May the peace of God reign in the hearts of all who know God, or who seek a deeper relationship with Him, in 2020 and beyond. To God be the glory.”
– Staff Reporter, James R. Harrigan
