Founded in 1977 by Pierre Massie, the Stairwell Carollers have become a fixture of Ottawa’s music scene, known for their nuanced interpretations of sacred and secular works. This year’s program features both beloved and lesser-known Christmas carols, some arranged by Massie himself, highlighting the choir’s dedication to presenting fresh takes on holiday favorites.
Composer Brynaert described the inspiration for Little Drummer Bolero as a sudden, intuitive moment. “It hit me like a ton of bricks while driving home from rehearsal one night,” he said. “Once the idea was there, the piece practically wrote itself.” Brynaert has dedicated the work to the memory of his dear friend Jenny Deek, a brilliant performer and music educator whose influence continues to inspire him.
Composer Bryneart
The St Columba performance is particularly special, as it has become an eagerly anticipated annual event. Known for its intimate ambiance and warm community spirit, this concert often sells out, so attendees are encouraged to reserve their tickets early.
Join the Stairwell Carollers for an evening of innovative choral music that bridges tradition with bold new artistry—an experience not to be missed!
Pierre Massie created our a cappella choir in 1977 while he was a music student at Ottawa University. With wins in both the 2010 and 2013 Ontario Music Festival Association competitions, we are ranked among the best of Ontario choirs.
