112th Carols Presentation
Collegiate Schools Carols performance
The High School and Junior School gathered for the 112th Collegiate Carols in their 150th year of excellence, and were filled with a sense of wonder and gratitude. Mrs Louise Erasmus, principal of the high school, said, “This evening is truly magical, an occasion that reflects the beautiful tapestry of tradition woven through our history. The cherished carols of the past hold a special place in the hearts of all, reminding us our motto, Facta Non Verba. Tonight's service is not only a celebration of our journey but also a demonstration of our commitment to giving back to the community. We are pleased to share that all proceeds from this evening will go to the Community Chest, supporting those in need and embodying the spirit of compassion and generosity that defines our institution. The hours of dedication and rehearsing by our talented staff and learners culminates in tonight’s performance, as we raise our voices together, ushering in the festive season. We hope you feel the spirit of Christmas in your hearts as we celebrate through song, highlighting the integral role that music plays in our community. It is also fitting to thank all the Collegiate learners who demonstrated Facta Non Verba by making teddy bears as gifts for children in children’s homes.”
Choir Conductor:
Mrs Agenbag has been a member of the Collegiate Girls’ High School Music staff since 2010 and the Head of Music since 2018. She has been involved in Carols in various ways, first as a flautist in the Carols band then rehearsal pianist and performance organist and finally as the official conductor since 2018.
Mrs Agenbag is the conductor of the Collegiate Girls’ High School Choir, the Eastern Cape Youth Choir and the Cantando@Algoa Community Choir. The Collegiate Choir has won the Choir section of the Knock-on-Wood Arts Festival, three times in a row and in 2019 won the regional round of the Sing in Harmonie Competition.
Mrs Agenbag has completed her Master’s degree in Choral Conducting at NMMU and graduated in 2017.
She has a passion for Choral singing and she enjoys sharing her love for singing with our learners.
In celebration of the Collegiate Schools’ sesquicentennial celebration, a new song was commissioned. To honour the years of excellence and traditions, the song was composed to reflect on the past, to celebrate the present and to look toward the future. A contemporary Christmas theme complements the special message.
The music was composed and arranged by Mrs Gustel Agenbag and the lyrics were written by two of our Grade Ten learners, Bronwyn Shone and Cwenga Williams.
