The world-renowned Palestrina Choir Christmas concert is due to return this Saturday after two years of online rehearsals during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Taking place at The National Concert Hall on Saturday 10 December, the one-night-only carol concert is a staple of Christmas events in Dublin, and a spectacular display of musical talent. Adding even more glamour to the night will be RTÉ's own Mary Kennedy, who will compère the event.
Watch Molly O'Connor's report for News2Day above.
The Palestrina Choir will be joined by Continum Youth Choir, Dublin Brass Band and resident organist, Aleksandr Nisse. This not-to-be-missed show will be conducted by Musical Director, Blánaid Murphy and produced by Noel McDonagh.
It's the beginning of a host of celebrations in the works for the choir, as next year marks its 120-year anniversary, having been founded by Edward Martyn in 1903 (who was also co-founder of Abbey Theatre with W.B. Yeats, Lady Gregory and George Moore).
Since 1903 it has become one of the most well-known and respected musical groups in the country and overseas. They are regularly called upon to perform at high profile state and Diocesan events such as State Funerals and in Áras an Uachtaráin and overseas they have performed in the Sistine Chapel and at Papal Masses most recently celebrated by Pope Francis.
It's been a long three years for the boys, girls and gentlemen of the choir who have continued to develop their skills without a live audience to sing to. With rehearsals and lessons moving online during lockdown, to finally gathering to practice with masks and social distancing, they've weathered the storm to get to this point.
It's particularly long if you're only six years old, as the youngest member of the choir is. With that in mind, this year's festive fête is sure to be one of the most moving ones yet, as it will be many members' first time to perform in the concert.
The choir will deliver a heart-warming selection of Christmas favourites ranging from Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Ding Dong Merrily on High and Silent Night.
You can buy tickets to this spectacular event at NCH.ie or by clicking here.
