Join us for an Extraordinary Christmas Journey: 'O Magnum Mysterium'

Dear Victoria Chorale Members,

This Christmas season, we invite you to be part of something truly magical—a concert that will transport both singers and audiences into a musical celebration of the mystery of Christmas. Our upcoming Christmas concert, 'O Magnum Mysterium' celebrates the wonder and awe of Christ's nativity through centuries of magnificent choral music.

The Latin phrase 'O magnum mysterium' speaks to the great mystery of the Incarnation—that divine moment when God became human, born humbly in a stable. This ancient text has inspired composers across the ages, and we'll perform several stunning interpretations, including the Renaissance masterpiece by Tomás Luis de Victoria which we now know well and the hauntingly beautiful contemporary setting by Morten Lauridsen. These works span over 400 years of musical tradition, yet both capture the same sense of wonder.

But this concert offers so much more than just the title pieces. We'll journey through selections from J.S. Bach's magnificent Christmas Oratorio, bringing the nativity story to life through some of the most glorious music ever written. These beloved works will feature talented soloists from St Andrews Brighton's Church choir, adding a professional dimension that will elevate our entire performance.

Speaking of our partners, we're thrilled to collaborate with The Choir of St Andrews Brighton—Victoria's oldest choir, singing continuously since 1842! This extraordinary ensemble has the longest continual musical tradition of any institution in Victoria. With their renowned excellence in choral performance, professional-standard training, and rich 180-year heritage, they bring an unparalleled level of artistry to our collaboration. Their lay clerks (including adult professional singers) will join us as soloists creating a truly magnificent combined choir experience.

The concert will feature three distinct but complementary elements: pieces performed by Victoria Chorale, works presented by St Andrews Brighton's choir, and combined pieces where both choirs unite will sing together. This varied format ensures musical richness and creates the opportunity to present both small and large ensemble singing to our audience.

Of course, no Christmas concert would be complete without beloved carols, and we'll include a wonderful selection that includes our usual community carol segments  that make our Christmas concerts so special.

This is your opportunity to sing at Christmas alongside Victoria's oldest choir, performing works that span centuries, and sharing in the joy that only comes from creating beautiful music together. Whether you're drawn to the mystical beauty of Renaissance polyphony, the architectural magnificence of Bach, or the warmth of traditional carols, this concert has something that everyone will love.

The rehearsal process will be enriching and collaborative, offering opportunities to learn from experienced musicians and to grow as both individual singers and ensemble members. Don't miss this chance to end 2025 with a grand performance of wonderful music.

Mark your calendars and prepare your voices for 'O Magnum Mysterium'—a Christmas celebration you'll treasure forever!  Register today to secure your place!

The concert will be on Saturday 13 December 2025 at 5pm, St Paul's Cathedral Cnr Flnders and Swanston Streets, Melbourne (Warm-up call time TBA). 

Rehearsals are at Christ Church, 2 Denham Street, Hawthorn. Parking is available in Denham Street and Wood Street.

First rehearsal is Tuesday 2nd September 2025.  

• Tuesday nights : 7.30 pm rehearsal start; 9.30 pm finish

• Sat mornings (if we have Saturday rehearsals) 10.30 am rehearsal start; 12.30pm finish

• Friday 12 December rehearsal: 7pm - 10 pm (at St Paul's Cathedral -  exact times TBC)

Rehearsal fees need to be paid prior to attending rehearsals.  Because of Covid considerations it is essential that we know the numbers singing in advance. 

Your 2025 annual membership fee also needs to be paid IF YOU HAVEN'T PAID IT ALREADY (ie if you did NOT sing in Concert 1 or Concert 2, 2025)

We hope you will be able to sing in our much loved Christmas Concert!

Location

Christ Church Hawthorn
2 Denham Street, Hawthorn Vic 3122

Contact Details

Contact Event Organiser