Dear Friends,

Music defines me. It motivates, encourages and inspires. Every concert season, I try to programme works that will do the same for audiences and performers alike. This year is no exception –

September 11, 2001 was a day that changed our world. To commemorate the tenth anniversary of 9/11, we will present Karl Jenkins’ The Armed Man, A Mass for Peace. A truly remarkable work, this offers us a chance to reflect and puts into sharp perspective the need for world peace.

In early November we present Great Hymns and Anthems, a programme that will include organ and the Concert Players Brass Ensemble in the beautiful St. Paul’s Cathedral. Uplifting – no doubt!

With Christmas comes a great variety of music – from whimsical and fun to majestic and deeply moving. A London Christmas is our traditional family concert. It takes place right after the "Lights Ceremony" in Victoria Park and is a light-hearted way to begin the holiday season.

The Gerald Fagan Singers will continue their exploration of Canadian composers in their second season of Christmas in Canada. I am overwhelmed by the great Christmas music that is distinctly Canadian.

It has been said by many that Christmas really arrives with the annual ‘Messiah’ performances. I tend to agree. We nurture this music and perform it with great enjoyment and enthusiasm. Fanshawe Chorus London and the Concert Players Orchestra will give a robust airing of Handel's Messiah at Centennial Hall and the Gerald Fagan Singers with the Orchestra will present a more intimate reading of Handel's Messiah at St. Peter’s Basilica. Four stellar soloists will join us for both.

Over the past few years, the Gerald Fagan Singers have explored repertoire from various countries. During this concert season, we will examine some of the great and exotic music of Spain, in our concert The Spanish Main.

By definition, a Requiem is a musical service, hymn or dirge for the dead. It is fitting, then, that on Good Friday, I have programmed two short Requiem Masses by Gabriel Fauré and Camille Saint-Saëns. You will be able to compare and contrast their individual styles. Both are beautiful and appropriate to the serenity of the day.

Our season concludes with our traditional Strawberries and Champagne in the Country. Join us for a relaxing outdoor afternoon of great music, food and company!

I invite you to join us for the 2011-2012 Season as we explore this great music. It is my hope that you will be motivated, encouraged and inspired!

Gerald Fagan
Conductor and Artistic Director