As November turns to December, we all brace ourselves for an inevitable onslaught of tacky Christmas music from every conceivable loudspeaker. But Island Voices Chamber Choir has a marvelous antidote, as their upcoming concert on December 4th Sing We Now of Christmas is packed full of beautiful and clever choral arrangements as well as the soothing tones of brass and stand-up bass.

Variety is the name of the game with this choir, so listeners will be treated to a mixture of English, French and Latin languages, 15th to 21st century compositions, and jazz to Gregorian styles. For instance, who has heard Deck the Halls in 7/8 time, or a fun a cappella arrangement of Christmas Time is Here from Charlie Brown's Christmas?

The icing on the cake will be the guest musicians. Quintessence Brass Quintet is a Comox Valley based ensemble playing 2 trumpets, french horn, trombone and tuba. This group of fine musicians have performed as far away as Russia and Prague over their 30 year history. They will accompany the choir on two numbers and play a set themselves. Those listeners who have not heard what rich and varied sounds can come from brass instruments are in for a treat. An additional guest musician will be Grahame Edwards on upright bass.

Island Voices choir draws from Campbell River, the Comox Valley and Quadra Island to attract the finest singers in the area. They have been together since 1997 and have 2 CDs under their belt, including a popular Christmas album. Both will be available for sale at the concert.

So start your Christmas season with a high class concert...and take your earplugs to the shopping mall!