The carol service which takes place in the Black Abbey on Tuesday next, December 20, at 8pm, will help to renovate one of Kilkenny’s landmark historic buildings.
Founded in 1224, the Black Abbey has the distinction of being the oldest church in Ireland that is still functioning as a place of Catholic worship. Lovers of music and supporters of the city’s medieval heritage will have an opportunity to contribute to the Black Abbey renovation fund at the carol service.
The evening will take the form of a traditional carol service with readings interspersed with carols. Contributors to the music include the Black Abbey Girls Choir, the CBS Boys Choir, St. Brigid’s College Choir and the Young Kilkenny Singers.
Soloists for the evening are renowned Kilkenny soprano, Deirdre Gannon and talented young singers, Annie Condren, Siobhan Curtis and Meghan Holden. Accompanists are Sile Ryan, Martin O’Reilly and Fiona Brennan.
Those attending the carol service are sure to be captivated by the cande-lit atmosphere, the splendour of the ancient abbey, and the beauty of the carols – beginning with the lovely Veni, Veni, Emmanuel and ending with the ever-popular O Holy Night.