This year brought a new tradition to Montrose. Instead of the usual Sunday afternoon concert, the community enjoyed a Friday evening Lessons and Carols. Its purpose, in the words of chorus director Ms. Lechner, was to be “a beautiful opening to the Advent and Christmas season.” This form of celebration originated in England, and is often held by Christian churches.

Lessons and Carols featured the wide range of musical groups at Montrose. A collaboration of tone chimes, upper and middle school choruses, and piano opened the event with “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” The concert featured the Treblemakers, Instrumental Ensemble, Upper School Chorus, Clef Hangers, Middle School Tone Chimes, and Middle School Chorus. Krystal Wu ‘19 accompanied most groups on the piano. To close, the tone chimes, choruses, and piano harmonized in “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.”

The “carols” relied on a cornerstone of “lessons”: Bible readings skillfully read by four eighth grade students. After each reading, the musical groups would perform songs that complemented each particular story. Together, the readings and music told the Christmas story.

“I think the new lighting and decor really helped everyone adapt to the elegant atmosphere of a Lessons and Carols,” said Ms. Lechner. Montrose staff worked hard to enhance the A&A, adding Christmas trees, lights, and beautiful tables of cookies to the space. “I found the whole event very warm and peaceful, and I believe the audience felt the same. Definitely a night to be remembered!”