In my mind, winter holidays in the Northern Hemisphere are all about helping us keep our spirits bright in the darkest of times. We bring light and greenery and festive foods into our homes, where we’re sheltering from the cold. The holiness of these days is the turning inward, the transformation of outward energy into spiritual reserves for hard times ahead. In my life, music has always been fun and spiritual and central to this season. Next weekend, I will be singing a piece called Nordic Light by Eriks Eisenvalds – a multi-media production including choir, orchestra, and video. It’s a haunting portrayal of the aurora borealis and the lore it lends to Arctic Circle cultures. The choir will be in the dark while the video is playing. The second half of the concert is carols of Christmas, much more warm and full of light.
This past weekend, in the same venue where I will be performing, I was a front-row guest at a concert by a 4-time Grammy winning Hawaiian singer. There was a cultural fair in the lobby before the show with dancers and vendor booths. It was a very colorful and joyful atmosphere, with lots of dancing, shouting, and clapping, and messages of love, acceptance, and support.
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Beautiful! How i wish I could be there listening to you!
Oh, thanks! I’m really enjoying seeing the different costumes and hearing the languages of the Arctic people. So very diverse and fascinating!
It must be!
Sounds wonderful – enjoy every moment.
Thanks, Tina!
This is is for me sure, winter holidays in the Northern Hemisphere are all about helping us keep our spirits bright in the darkest of times. well said. very festive shots, love the landscape
Thanks, Ritva! Sending you a bright, warm smile! 🙂
“The holiness of these days is the turning inward, the transformation of outward energy into spiritual reserves for hard times ahead” so well said!
The choral piece sounds wonderful. Is there a video? I am also a choral singer.
Thanks! Yes, there is a video on YouTube, but it wouldn’t let me embed it. Look for the Mississauga Festival version.
I love your holiday images. Being part of a musical production is a wonderful way to bring joy during the holidays.
Thanks, Beth! Wishing you music and light!
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You are so right! Lovely photos too.
Thanks, Sofia!
Singing is a wonderful way to share joy. Happy holidays to you and yours xx
Thanks!
How wonderful for you to be participating in and enjoying holiday music. Music warms the heart and brings peace.
It sure does!
😍
Your gallery truly reflects the challenge, Priscilla, and your inclusion of holiday music adds to the joy. I always envy people who can sing, for alas, I cannot.
I hope you feel included in the joy of music in your own way, and although you feel you ‘cannot’ sing, I hope you DO sing…and dance, and feel, and celebrate. 🙂
Well, I do try, softly, so others don’t hear. >gringrin<
Seriously, I love music, play keyboard instruments, and love to dance.
I love your introductory gallery. Beautifully done. Music of the season and the fragrance of baked goodies help keep my spirits up🎄
Thanks, Lindy – it sounds like you have a good plan for the season!