What a special tradition we have in Melbourne, that’s Carols by Candlelight. Many keep returning to Carols every year, whether as an audience member, a performer onstage or a keen TV viewer at home. There were a number of milestones celebrated and acknowledged on the night of Christmas Eve last year, one being for Mr Casey. NBCA’s retiring Co-Artistic Director has participated in Carols – as a performer and conductor – over the last 31 years. Mr Casey was also presented with a Service Award backstage after the broadcast, acknowledging his 51 years of service to the Choir. Carols by Candlelight for 2018 was also a special event for NBCA’s participating choristers. Those called up for Carols were able to share Mr Casey’s last Carols with him; an event they will hold in their hearts and memories for years to come.
Last year’s Carols was Training Choir Tutor Miss Iris Ferwerda’s first Carols as a staff member. The event brought back memories for Miss Ferwerda when she performed at Carols as part of the Australian Girls Choir some years ago:
“When I was younger performing with AGC it was always such a magical moment to look out and have a sea of lights in front of you. It’s just a beautiful sight.”
It’s also worth noting that two Junior training choir choristers were called up to perform in the Kids’ Segment alongside two Performing Choir choristers. Well done to Health Elias and Noah Jordan for stepping up to an important event, and showcasing their performance-ready skills. It’s the first year when the NBCA has called on two training choir choristers to perform.
More lovely comments received on Facebook…
“Congratulations and well done boys, that was an amazing performance! And congratulations Peter as well, under your tutelage our boys have excelled!”
“As a member of the CBC chorus it was wonderful to share the tribute to Peter Casey in singing Somewhere in my Memory. Very touching indeed.”
