‘Christmas creep’ seems to begin before Halloween, but the true Twelve Days of Christmas officially starts on 25th December.
The history of the catchy carol is somewhat suspect, but the earliest known version appeared in a 1780 children’s book called Mirth With-out Mischief. Most historians agree it was designed as a ‘memory and forfeits’ game, in which singers tested their recall of the lyrics and had to award their opponents a forfeit — a kiss or a favour of some kind — if they made a mistake.
The London Quartet Cantabile have long been recognised to be one of Britain’s great vocal groups. Their side-splitting treatment of The Twelve Days of Christmas will be proudly presented by The Scunthorpe and North Lincolnshire Concert Society.
Founded in Cambridge as a purely a cappella student ensemble, the quartet first came to prominence in the Tim Rice musical Blondel in London’s West End. Since then, the gentlemen have appeared in a huge variety of venues, singing programmes encompassing early polyphony, jazz and contemporary music.
They have toured extensively, from the United States to South Africa to Southeast Asia and the Far East. They have sung in the most prestigious venues for the most prestigious clientele, including Buckingham Palace for Her Majesty the Queen. Sir Tim Rice describes them as his ‘favourite vocal group’.
The evening will feature music by Byrd, Bach, Rossini and Poulence. Tickets cost £18.00 and children and students attend free with an accompanying adult.
Enjoy the concert on Friday 1st December at 7.30pm at Outwood Academy Foxhills, Foxhills Road, Scunthorpe DN15 8LJ. The theatre is modern but cosy. Go along with a friend or on your own as you will receive a warm welcome and the chance to win a raffle prize. For more details visit www.scunthorpe-concert-society.co.uk.