IT was a new format for the traditional carols by candlelight and something a little different. But Christmas at Orange Regional Conservatorium of Music, dubbed “Christmas at the Hill”, had the audience singing carols and enjoying the beautiful sounds of the orchestra and choir on Sunday during three concerts.
Musical director Graham Sattler set the scene for the toddlers’ concert when he walked onto the stage wearing an “old red coat” trimmed with fur. He said “someone” had left it at his home last year.
Mr Sattler led the Orange Conservatorium Youth Choir, Orange City Choir, Youth Orchestra, Orange Symphony Orchestra, members of the Orange Brass Band and community members in performing traditional Christmas carols. Baritone William Moxey and Kerryn Daniel from Orange High School, also took to the stage to sing.
Music co-ordinator Narelle Nelson said the response to the first indoor carols event was “fantastic”.
She estimated more than 400 people had enjoyed the first two concerts.
She praised the support of the community, businesses and schools for supporting the event.
“We aimed the first concert at toddlers, and the second at seniors so it was a bit longer and it was followed by afternoon tea,” Mrs Nelson said.
“Roberts Bakery helped with it and I think everyone appreciated it. I think we will have to consider holding an event for seniors to go to.
“They prefer a concert in the afternoon rather than the evening,” she said.
Mrs Nelson said some people who had enjoyed the morning concert and came back for the afternoon.
Carols was moved indoors this year to give previous carols organisers Paul and Nancy Weathersten a break.
The Conservatorium of Music organisers wanted to continue the tradition of a carols concert.
Mr Sattler said it was held indoors because of a lack of financial support to cover technical costs for an outdoors event.