Marcia Rowe, Gleaner Writer

The University Singers performed creditably under the direction of F.E. Halliburton at the 'Choral Festival' held at the Church of St Margaret, St Andrew, last Sunday. - Marcia Rowe Photo

In his opening speech, Dr Trevor Hope, master of ceremonies said, "Those who sing pray twice." Thus, the Church of St Margaret, located in St Andrew, was the prayer tabernacle on Sunday, September 28.

The occasion was a programme titled 'Choral Festival', part of the Church's 70th anniversary celebration.

Choral Festival was a diet of classical gospel music, performed by five choirs and a steel band. The choirs included the host church choir, Kingston College chapel choir, The University Singers, Transfiguration Steel Orchestra, along with the Diocesan, and Glenmuir High School choirs. Each choir performed at least two items.

Creditable performance

The boys from North Street, Kingston College chapel choir, and the Diocesan Festival choir gave a creditable performance with Ave Verum (Mozart), Rejoice in the Lord Always (Purcell) and I Will Sing with the Spirit (John Rutter). Their director was Audley Davidson.

However, the St Margaret's church choir did not live up to their opening status with their delivery of God So Loved the World and Oh Perfect Love.

While the University choir, decked in red and black, gave a commendable performance with songs such as Come Thou Fount of Every Blessings and My Soul's Being Anchored in the Lord, their best rendition was that of F. E. Halliburton's (the choir director) arrangement.

Upon completion of their performance, the choir received a sustained applause from the appreciative audience.

Stole the show

But it was the choir from Glenmuir High School in Clarendon which stole the show. The choir had the audience captivated with Jesus, Elijah Rock and Arise under the direction of choir director, Dorine O'Connor. For their sterling performance they received a standing ovation.

The Transfiguration Steel Band, the sole band on the programme, under the direction of Mrs Audrey Wright, entertained the audience with Elijah, arranged by Dr Rohan Bailey; The Lord's Prayer (Father Ho Lung) and I Just Want to Follow Jesus, arranged by Gay Magnus.

The programme, divided into two parts, with a 30-minute intermission, was well attended.