LOYOLA’S CHOIR performed for the annual Christmas concert on Dec. 6 and at St. John’s Cathedral in Los Angeles on Dec. 10.

Loyola’s Choir performed its annual Christmas concert on Tuesday, Dec. 6,  in preparation for Lessons and Carols.

Directed by Mr. Steven Speciale, the concert offered students a taste of timeless Christmas songs like ‘Silent Night.’ Additionally, the choir sung secular pieces like ‘Africa’ by Toto.

Speciale said, “Well, I choose the songs to show a wide range of songs from pop songs like ‘Africa’ to odd foreign songs.  I chose them as a teacher looking to find the best way to teach my students different techniques from high keys to unison singing.”  

Speciale has directed the event for the entire duration of his twelve year Loyola career.  The choir consists of his music classes and volunteer students and is separate from the mass choir that leads Loyola liturgies.  The choir has been preparing since August for this event.  

Senior Joseph Myers, who played Bach’s “Prelude and Fugue in C minor” as a solo during the concert, said, “It was a great honor to have performed for the Loyola community. As the last chance to perform a solo for my Cub brothers, I am glad that the crowd applauded for me with warmth.”

Several students commented on their experiences as an audience member during the Loyola Christmas Concert. Junior Michael Lee said, “I really loved the fact that Loyola offered a chance for students to showcase their musicianship and love for performing. I enjoyed the concert very much.”

Speciale and the Choir later performed at St. John’s Cathedral in Downtown LA for the Lessons and Carols performance.