The halls of the Church of God (Holiness) were transformed into a festive haven on Monday, 8th December 2025, as the Anguilla National Choir returned with its much-anticipated “Glory II: Sounds of the Season” concert. With its blend of soaring voices, expressive instrumentation and spirited Christmas energy, the evening delivered a musical experience that left the audience glowing with Christmas cheer.
This year’s production offered a rich tapestry of holiday classics, from the ethereal “Carol of the Bells” to the reverent “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and the jubilant “Go Tell It On the Mountain”. The performances were guided by Lead Conductor Mrs. Lois Hazell, whose poised direction anchored the programme and whose animated introductions brought warmth and personality to each segment of the night.
The Anguilla National Choir — glowing in vibrant green for the Youth Division and radiant pink for the Adult Division — set a joyful tone from the outset. Their harmonies filled every corner of the sanctuary, enhanced by ambient lighting that cast a soft seasonal glow across the church. At several moments, the concert evolved seamlessly into community song, as the congregation joined in beloved hymns such as “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and “Silent Night”, voices blending to form a heartfelt chorus befitting the season.
In his welcome remarks, choir member and musician Kasem Thompson captured the spirit of the evening: “This is our fifth year of consecutive Christmas events. This year we’re bringing in different instruments, so you’ll get some voice, you’ll get some sax, you’ll get some flute, you’ll even get some steel pan.” And indeed, the promise of variety was fulfilled.
The programme ventured beyond traditional choral work, showcasing operatic stylings, jazz influences and a delightful array of instrumental performances. Elliot Gumbs’ soulful saxophone rendition of “O Holy Night” captivated listeners, weaving a velvety, almost meditative atmosphere. Thompson himself demonstrated masterful versatility, performing “O Little Town of Bethlehem” on the trombone, offering gentle yet expressive piano interpretations, and unveiling spirited Caribbean-infused Christmas medleys arranged especially for the evening. It was one of these medleys — performed by students on the steel pan — that proved a favourite among attendees. Their youthful energy, paired with the unmistakable island rhythms, brought a distinctly Anguillian flair to the event and earned enthusiastic applause.
The younger members of the choir also shone brightly. Rising voices such as Dwayniqua Proctor, Erin Ordiales and Kadeon Brown delivered confident solo passages that highlighted the depth of developing talent within the youth division. Mrs. Hazell used these moments to encourage parents to nurture the artistic passions of their children, praising the dedication and discipline displayed by the young performers.
Before closing the evening, Mrs. Hazell reminded patrons of the Anguilla National Choir’s next major production, scheduled for 2nd March 2026, which will combine theatrical performances with musical presentations — a testament to the ensemble’s growing artistic ambition.
As the final notes reverberated through the sanctuary, it was clear that “Glory II: Sounds of the Season” had accomplished far more than presenting a polished concert. It reignited the annual communal warmth of the holidays, uplifted the spirit of all in attendance and showcased the vibrant musical talent that continues to flourish in Anguilla.
For those who entered the church still easing into the Christmas mood, the evening ensured they left fully immersed in the season’s joy.
By Janissa Fleming
