St. Andrew's United Church in Chatham is set to mark Remembrance Day this year through a series of songs during a Saturday night concert.
The concert, directed by St. Andrew’s Music Director Devon Hansen, will feature music from the First and Second World Wars as well as celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of John McCrae.
McCrae, a Canadian soldier, surgeon, and poet, is best known for his famous war memorial poem In Flanders Fields which came to symbolize the sacrifices of all who were fighting in the First World War.
"Music during the wars was utilized in various ways," said spokesperson Mary Alice Marchand. "Through the songs, soldiers brought a piece of their heritage from their home countries that signified their culture. Music was a method of coping with the trauma and stress brought on by the war both for those at home and those on the battlefield."
The evening will feature music from the St. Andrew's Chancel Choir, the CKSS School Choir directed by Christine Baribeau, the brass quintet, and several vocalists including Colin Bell Aimee Clifford, Andrew Derynck, Victoria Hoshowsky, Victoria Kimmerly, and Mikayla Lozon.
The vocal group Dulce Jubilo will also be contributing to the program.
"This is the 10th anniversary season of Saturday at 7," said Marchand. "The music of this program will provide an opportunity for the audience to reflect on the sacrifices made by so many for our freedom and democracy."
The concert will start at 7 p.m. on Saturday, November 12 at St. Andrews church located on William Street in Chatham. A free-will offering will be taken up at the concert with a suggested donation of $15.
