Easter choral performance makes full-throated return

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This article was published 07/04/2023 (1165 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

A special Easter tradition that draws on Steinbach’s deep well of musical talent will make a full comeback this Sunday for the first time in four years.

The Eastman Choral Association’s annual Easter Sunday concert takes place April 9 at 7 a.m. as part of the sunrise service at Grace Mennonite Church.

The ECA’s Easter concert was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 owing to the pandemic. Last Easter, as restrictions lifted, the event returned in a scaled-down way, with quartets and octets replacing the full choir.

ECA board members Nathan Dyck and Shannon Sawatzky said they’re thrilled the concert can return in full force this year.

“Easter is the height of the Christian calendar,” Dyck said, “and it really deserves a strong choral service.”

Millie Hildebrand will conduct the 35-member Eastman Community Choir, accompanied by pianist Annalee Schellenberg, organist Karen Peters, and The Winnipeg Brass, a quintet led by trumpetist Dean Pollard, a former Steinbach resident.

“It’s almost overwhelming to be up there when they are all playing at full force,” Sawatzky said. “There’s a physical sensation of being near them.”

The hour-long service will include scripture readings, responsive readings, a welcome and benediction by Pastor Mel Letkeman, and a freewill offering to help cover costs associated with the event.

Hymns will include Easter favourites like “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” and “Christ Arose.”

“It’s a sacred choral music event to sing those great Easter hymns,” Dyck said.

The choir will also sing one song in German, a language that is new to some choir members.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy a brass prelude. The service will conclude before regular church services begin on Sunday morning.

The ECA’s last public performance was a November peace concert. Community interest in the choir has been strong since pandemic restrictions subsided.

“It shows that people are hungry for choral music, which is great,” Dyck said.

While the ECA is rooted in the Mennonite choral tradition, Dyck said the board is exploring ways to make its concerts more accessible and inter-denominational.

Sawatzky said everyone can enjoy the beauty of the music being performed this Sunday, regardless of background or faith tradition.