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The lively chatter of over 2,000 people was brought to an instant hush as Birmingham Symphony Hall lights dimmed. The plaintive sounds of O Come Emmanuel heralded the start of Birmingham Citadel’s Christmas presentation - REJOICE!
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Slowly to the sound of voice, trumpet and grand organ, a huge panorama of sound gradually erupted, culminating in the congregation raising their voices to Hark the Herald Angels Sing.
There followed a great celebration of the Christmas season. Timbrels reverberated to Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks; the primary children presented the simple Nativity story as only they can, while Jane Brill’s lovely voice echoed to a Mary soliloquy titled Some Day. A delightful Christmas story told in music and graceful dance described how a crippled shepherd boy was cured when the wise men visited his home. Menotti’s 'Amahl and the Night Visitors' charmed everyone.
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The presence of Philip Wilby at the organ inspired the songsters to present his The Word Made Flesh, a quite beautiful evocation of the incarnation. Interspersed were well presented items by the junior sections. Finally we were treated to a magnificent finale from Saint-Saen’s 'Organ' Symphony featuring Philip Wilby and the band.
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The genial Captain Dean Pallant compered the presentation and the great audience returned home to the final carol O Come All Ye Faithful ringing in their ears.
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Words: Fred Crowhurst
Photos: Gordon McKee
