Many of our British friends have described how much they enjoyed attending Evensong after a leisurely afternoon tea. Thus, with the Dickens Festival already having a tea, an Evensong seemed a natural addition. John T. Hamilton was enlisted to create an Evensong performance and for four years he directed the group that performed these beautiful concerts. When John was unable to continue Steve Kester graciously stepped in, so this event would not be lost. Steve was impressed with the quality of the group and was ready for the year-round challenge of directing a musical group. Lo and behold the Raincross Chorale was born, a child of the Riverside Dickens Festival. Sadly, Steve Kester passed away in January 2015.
The festival’s Evensong as well, as the chorale’s spring and fall concerts, are now under the direction of Bill Brakemeyer. Last year saw the joining of Riverside Master Chorale and Raincross Chorale with a new name – Raincross Master Chorale. The legacy of a professional quality chorale that has had a major impact on Riverside’s musical scene continues. The chorale’s contribution transcends performance, as the chorale is also a major source of scholarships for emerging vocal talent.
Evensong provides a relaxing and spiritual end to another successful and exciting Dickens Festival.
