Winterlude 2025

A heartwarming musical event that will provide a welcome respite from the winter’s darkness and chill.

The Quarantones Male Chorus is thrilled to announce their upcoming concert series, Winterlude. The program extends an invitation to pause, reflect, and connect through music. Performances are scheduled for January 24 in Cumberland, January 25 in Comox, and January 26 on Denman Island.

“Winterlude is a wonderful mix of songs that will touch the audience in many ways,” says Musical Director Denise Marquette. She continues, “The Quarantones bring a genuine love for what they do, along with the technical skill and emotional expression to make each performance special. We are excited to share our joy of singing and connect with the audience in a meaningful way”

The program features Edvard Grieg’s rousing Brothers, Sing On!, the chorus's signature opening number and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ lively arrangement of Down Among the Dead Men, a classic drinking song celebrating camaraderie and merriment. Billy Joel’s nostalgic doo-wop gem The Longest Time reflects on rekindled love, while Gordon Lightfoot’s tender ballad Song for a Winter’s Night conjures a vivid picture of yearning for a distant love, wrapped in the beauty of a snowy night.

Adding a special dimension to the concert, the Quarantones present three songs in honor of Scotland’s beloved poet, Robert Burns. This selection features Flow Gently, Sweet Afton, a serene melody inspired by his timeless poem, the lively Bonnie Dundee, and The Proclaimers’ spirited I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles), celebrating Scottish heritage with joy and vigor.

Also highlighted are Kyle Unterseher’s The Steady Light and Morten Lauridsen’s Sure on This Shining Night, two poignant pieces that combine lush harmonies with poetic texts. These works invite deep reflection and foster a profound sense of connection to the beauty and wonder of the world. Adding to this rich tapestry, William Spivery’s soulful Operator, features the vibrant and powerful voice of Orlando Wiebe, and Charles Albert Tindley’s uplifting gospel anthem The Storm Is Passing Over, features the smooth and expressive voice of Glenn Gustafson.

Together, these works create a diverse and inspiring musical experience, celebrating the enduring connections that unite us.