We often think of holidays as a big time for family, but how that plays out varies from household to household. For Calgary Philharmonic Chorus member Barbara Soles, who also happens to be a Senior Development Officer with the Calgary Phil’s administration and a board member of Choir Alberta, the festive season means coming together in song. A self-described “choir nerd” who grew up singing in the choral program at the Mount Royal Conservatory, Soles likes to reflect on music as an essential part of her family history.
“My mom and my grandma always sang in church choirs; however, my husband's family is where the musical talent lies,” she explains. “My husband and both of his brothers met their spouses in choirs.
“My father-in-law is known to hand out sheet music at Christmas time and say, ‘Here, sing this'. And because all six of us are talented musicians, we can sight read this Ukrainian folk song that he gives us, and we sing in four- or six-part harmony. It's pretty awesome.”
This year the clan will take raising their voices on high to another level: specifically, the choir loft above the stage at Jack Singer Concert Hall on December 6, where Soles, in her capacity as a soprano, will be joined in performance by two of her nephews.
The concert promises to be a sonic feast for lovers of choral music, featuring not only the Calgary Phil Chorus but also the Cantaré Children’s Choir and two-time Juno-nominated soprano Miriam Khalil joining the Orchestra for a potpourri of Christmas classics and traditional carols.
One of Barbara’s nephews, eighth grader Tatum Berko, is set to perform at A Choral Christmas as a member of Cantaré, while his cousin Pearson Berko, who is in grade 12, appears as a member of the Calgary Phil’s Youth Choristers. In its inaugural year, the program, designed to develop a new generation of musical leaders, sees music teachers nominate prospective students to audition for eight positions annually. Those selected go on to rehearse weekly with the Calgary Philharmonic Chorus and perform with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra.
“I thought it was funny wearing two hats at choir as an employee and as a chorus member. Well, now I'm also Auntie Barb,” laughs Soles.
While both boys have performed as choristers with the Calgary Phil previously, this will be their first appearance alongside “Auntie Barb” in the choir loft – a special holiday treat, indeed.
“I want to prioritize making time for joy. The things that bring me joy. The things that bring the people that I love joy. Music is one of those fundamental, universal things in our lives that brings us all joy," says Soles. “So, to be involved in the music-making process with people that I love at a time when joy is so necessary in the world, it’s a real privilege to be part of that.”
Get your tickets for A Choral Christmas on Friday, December 6 in the Jack Singer Concert Hall!
