International Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

International Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, St. Andrew’s and St. George’s West Church, Edinburgh, followed by Drinks Reception at Royal College of Physicians, Edinburgh

Thursday 8th December, 6.30pm for 7pm until 10.30pm

Tickets: £35

We are honoured to present a range of inspirational guest readers alongside joyous carols performed by accomplished musicians from the UK, India, and Malawi.

Singers from the acclaimed National Youth Choir of Scotland (NYCOS) Edinburgh Choir, led by its conductor Mark Evans, is supported by a highly acclaimed trio of solo performers - all alumni of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Be delighted by soprano Rachael Brimley, a regular performer with Scottish Opera, having appeared in several productions including Figaro and La Traviata - the Herald describing her as ‘lyrical and precise’.

Listen to the wonderful voice of Ankna Arockiam, the revered, classically trained Indian musician who believes that Indian classical music is an incredible way to understand the spiritual aspect of India. Delight in the sound of classical singer Suzie Murphy, the founder of the Runway music school, who performs a delightful rendition of a popular Christmas carol.  Adding atmosphere to the evening is the outstanding Mulanje Women’s Choir, performing courtesy of a video link from Malawi.

The International Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is a traditional and popular Christmas service that tells the story of the fall of humanity, the promise of the Messiah, and the birth of Jesus, which is told in nine short Bible readings or lessons, interspersed with Christmas carols, hymns, and choir anthems.

After the service, take a short stroll to celebrate Christmas at the drinks and canapes reception, sponsored by Thomas Bradley Legal Services and Sterling Scotia Wealth Management, at the nearby Royal College of Physicians, Edinburgh. Within the Great Hall and Library, you will absorb the historic atmosphere in the Georgian surroundings, where our forebears in Scottish medicine have met through the centuries. Relax and be entertained by highly accomplished, Scottish traditional fiddle player, Isla Ratcliff, a semi-finalist in BBC’s Young Traditional Musician of the Year 2022, and music from the Jazz Quartet of the City of Edinburgh Music School.

This is the perfect way to really embrace the true meaning of Christmas, whether you are attending with friends, family, your work colleagues, or on your own, you will be welcomed and leave in great spirits.

Join EMMS International and our global friends and neighbours for our inaugural International Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols followed by a canapes and drinks reception, at the prestigious Royal College of Physicians, Edinburgh in support of our vital programmes in Malawi, Nepal, India and Scotland.

Booking your tickets

You can book online or by calling 0131 313 3828. When booking by phone, you have the option to pay by credit or debit card or to arrange a cash or cheque payment.

Sponsorship

Sponsorship opportunities are available. If you might be interested in sponsoring this prestigious event please contact laura.brown@emms.org.