NEW YORK – GNUSA [Photos: GANP/ Dimitrios Panagos]
The renowned Archdiocesan Cathedral Choir and Youth Choir, accompanied by the Archdiocesan Cathedral Orchestra and under the direction of Maestro Costas Tsourakis, presented their 48th Annual Christmas Concert, “The Sounds of Christmas”, under the byzantine dome of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Cathedral of the Holy Trinity in Manhattan, on December 21.
Continuing a long -standing tradition, the wonderful evening featured Orthodox Christmas hymns, Greek traditional carols and favorite seasonal classics.
“As we gather in this sacred space, our hearts are filled with joy, gratitude and reflection. This year has been a remarkable one for our music ministry, marked by growth, dedication, and bittersweet moments. The Cathedral Choir and Youth Choir have soared to a new heights and tonight’s concert is a testament to their passion and hard work”, stressed Maestro Tsourakis, welcoming the attendees.
“Tonight’s concert”, he continued, “carries a profound wight as we mourn the sudden passing of our Artist-in-Residence, Dr. John Baboukis. His immense knowledge, talent and love for the sacred music enriched us all”.
Baboukis’ final composition, the Megalynarion of Christmas, (Christ is Born ..Μεγάλυνον ψυχή μου) was premiered at the concert, conducted by his beloved daughter Hilary Baboukis, Associate Conductor of the Choir.
Featured pieces included Handel’s “O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings” from “Messiah” with mezzo-soprano soloist Christine Duncan, Peter Cornelius’ “The Three Kings” with bass-baritone Damon Nestor Ploumis and Josef Rheinberger’s “Adoration of the Wise-Men” from “Star of Bethlehem” with soloists Adam Cromer (tenor), Eleftherios Chasanidis (baritone) and Stephan Kirchgraber (bass).
In his message to the Choir, Archbishop Elpidophoros called everyone “to remember the true essence of Christmas -our Savior’s Holy Nativity and Incarnation”. “May the melodies and hymns of this concert fill your hearts with peace, joy and love, and may the forthcoming Christmastide bring forth abundant blessings, health and happiness to you and your loved ones”, the message concluded.
Dawn Helene, Accompanist/ Organist, also participated in the concert.
Kostas Psaros accompanied the Choir for the traditional carols from Chios and Ikaria.
Among those present for the festive performance were His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, formerly of America, Archdiocesan Cathedral Dean Fr. Chrysostomos Gilbert, and Cathedral Board President Elias Lambiris, as well as members of the AHEPA Chapter 25 “Delphi” of Manhattan.
Following the concert, a festive candlelight reception, The Flavors of Christmas, took place in the Chiotes Family Cathedral Hall.
