(In March 2026, the West Ottawa Ladies Chorus performed in the atrium at Wellings of Stittsville entertaining the residents with memories of theme songs from movies of years gone by. Photo: Stittsville Central)
The West Ottawa Ladies Chorus is preparing to welcome audiences to its upcoming Christmas concerts, featuring a lively mix of traditional carols, contemporary favourites, light-hearted musical numbers and more contemplative selections.
The concert takes its title from “Tidings of Comfort and Joy,” an arrangement by Audrey Snyder of the traditional English carol “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen.” With its lively rhythms and percussion provided by chorus member Vivian McLean, the piece promises an energetic start to the program.
The West Ottawa Ladies Chorus is a group of nearly 40 women who sing in four-part harmony under the direction of Allison Houston, accompanied by Peter Brown. This year’s concerts will also feature special musical guest Preston Smith, an accomplished local tenor and opera singer. Smith will join the Chorus for solo parts in several selections, as well as perform on his own. His impressive musical accomplishments can be found on the Chorus website at www.westottawaladieschorus.ca.
There is something for a wide range of musical tastes in this year’s program. The repertoire spans centuries and styles, beginning with “Celebrate This Day Together,” based on music by 16th-century composer Pierre Clereau and arranged by Patrick M. Liebergen.
Movie fans may recognize “Believe,” from “The Polar Express”, with words and music by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard and arranged by Mark Hayes. The Chorus will also perform the Silesian folksong “Beautiful Saviour,” arranged by Julie Knowles.
A little musical humour comes into play with “Cold and Fugue Season,” Ellen Foncannon’s clever arrangement based on J.S. Bach’s Fugue in G Minor. Audiences may find themselves laughing, coughing, or perhaps doing both! “Ding-a Ding-a Ding” by Greg Gilpin has the singers trying to imitate bells, while a choral adaptation of the ever-popular “Jingle Bells,” with words and music by James Pierpont, brings another festive touch.
The lighter side of the Christmas season is also explored in “No Time to Diet,” a humorous look at the challenge of overeating during the holidays. With words by Linda Rebuck and words and music by David and Bonnie Huntsinger, the arrangement is by David Huntsinger, Tom Fettke and Thomas Grassi. “Text Me Merry Christmas,” by Adam Schlesinger and David Javerbaum and arranged by Roger Emerson, offers a light-hearted look at staying connected with loved ones when distance keeps families apart during the holidays.
The program also makes room for quieter, more reflective moments. These include “One Little Candle,” by George Mysels and J. Maloy Roach, arranged by Charles Naylor; “Silent Night,” featuring lyrics by Joseph Mohr and music and additional lyrics by Kirby Shaw; “Where the Light Begins,” with text by Jan Richardson and music by Susan LaBarr; and “Take Me Home,” by Maureen Ennis, arranged by Leslee Heys.
With such a varied program, the Chorus hopes to offer something for everyone, whether audiences enjoy traditional Christmas music, familiar popular songs, musical comedy or more thoughtful seasonal selections.
Concertgoers are also encouraged to bring along cash for the opportunity to purchase tickets for a draw featuring an array of gift baskets displayed in the church foyer. It’s always fun to take home a prize!
The West Ottawa Ladies Chorus will present two Christmas concerts at Bells Corners United Church, 3955 Old Richmond Road, Nepean:
- Friday, November 27, at 7 p.m.
- Saturday, November 28, at 3 p.m.
Tickets are $25 and are available from Chorus members, through the Chorus website, or at the door. Children under 12 are admitted free.
Audiences are invited to join the Chorus for an enjoyable musical celebration filled with Christmas spirit, familiar favourites and a few surprises along the way.
