PRIMA Choral Artists will perform two Family Christmas concerts at St Olave’s Church, Marygate, York, on December 14 and 21.
“As the festive season approaches, I’m thrilled to present a new series of two very special 4pm concerts in the heart of York,” says Prima Vocal Ensemble artistic director and producer Ewa Salecka.
“Residents and visitors alike are warmly invited to join the Prima Choral Artists, New World String Quartet, pianist Greg Birch and guest musicians for two afternoons of Christmas music for all ages.
“These feel-good, one-hour concerts of instrumental and choral music guarantee high-spirited festive favourites, from Carol Of The Bells, Sleigh Ride and The Sussex Carol to stunning choral arrangements of much-loved seasonal pieces from respected contemporary choral composers.”
Uplifting music, including pieces by Tchaikovsky and Vladimir Rebikov, will be performed by New World String Quartet, while audience carols will include Hark The Herald Angels Sing, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen and Ding Dong Merrily On High.
Under Salecka’s baton, Prima Vocal Ensemble, a progressive mixed-voice York choir with a reputation for musical diversity, have enjoyed a typically exhilarating year of events in 2024, fuelled by her desire to push the boundaries of choral performance.
“With consecutive sell-out events at home and exciting collaborations in the United States, Prima continue to attract talented singers and raise the bar for choir experiences in the area,” says Ewa, who combines all-embracing creative concert programming with modern and effective vocal coaching and more than 20 years of conducting experience.
“Since the pandemic, I’ve worked passionately on a gentle re-profiling of the choir. For the singers, this has meant embracing new challenges, with ever-higher standards of performance.
“And they rise to each and every challenge! When I reflect on the sense of excitement and commitment each person shows every week, superlatives fail me. I’m so extremely proud of this group and their constant open-minded approach to new ideas, new genres and new projects. I feel very fortunate to lead them in creativity.”
In June, the choir enjoyed a reunion concert with double Grammy-winning composer Christopher Tin at New York’s iconic Carnegie Hall, strengthening Salecka’s already phenomenal connections with American choral producers.
On November 23, Prima performed Opera Nights, Broadway Lights! at the National Centre for Early Music, York, showcasing the best of opera and musical theatre. “This concert sold out two months ahead of the event and due to its popularity may be repeated,” says Ewa.
Next year will mark the 15th anniversary of Prima Vocal Ensemble. “We are always happy to hear from new singers who wish to add their voices to this progressive group,” says Ewa.
“All voice types are welcome to apply. There is a waiting list for sopranos and altos, but if any tenors or basses would like to sign up, you can be sure that I am always on the leading edge of contemporary choral trends. There are no formal auditions and you are guaranteed a brilliant time. Please email info@primavocalensemble.com for more details.”
To find out more about Prima and the opportunities to be enjoyed with the choir, visit primavocalensemble.com.
Family Christmas with Prima Choral Artists, St Olave’s Church, Marygate, York, December 14 and 21, 4pm to 5pm; doors 3.30pm. Tickets update: selling fast for both concerts, available from primavocalensemble.com in the final chance to experience Prima until 2025.
