People Look East
On December 5, 2025, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay filled Allendale United Methodist Church in St. Petersburg, Florida, with warmth and anticipation during their festive holiday concert, Holly, Jolly, and Gay! One of the evening’s most expressive and contemplative moments came with their performance of Craig Courtney’s arrangement of “People Look East,” a modern choral setting that invites listeners to reflect on hope, preparation, and quiet joy.
Courtney’s arrangement, known for its lyrical phrasing and gentle harmonic language, was ideally suited to the chorus’s refined blend and expressive sensitivity. From the opening measures, the singers established a calm, almost reverent atmosphere, allowing the Advent text to unfold naturally. The melody passed gracefully between voice parts, each section contributing to a seamless musical conversation that emphasized both unity and clarity of text. Subtle dynamic shaping and careful attention to phrasing gave the piece a sense of forward motion without sacrificing its meditative character.
The acoustics of Allendale United Methodist Church enhanced the performance, allowing the chorus’s harmonies to bloom and linger. Soft passages floated effortlessly through the sanctuary, while fuller moments carried a warm resonance that enveloped the audience. The balance between intimacy and richness highlighted the chorus’s musical discipline and deep understanding of the piece’s emotional core.
Within the broader program of Holly, Jolly, and Gay!, “People Look East” offered a reflective counterpoint to more exuberant holiday selections. It served as a musical pause, encouraging listeners to consider the deeper meanings of the season amid celebration. The Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay approached the work with sincerity and artistry, honoring Craig Courtney’s thoughtful arrangement while making it distinctly their own.
The result was a performance that resonated beyond its final chord, reminding the audience that the holidays are as much about anticipation and reflection as they are about festivity and cheer.