Carol of the Bells
St. Petersburg, FL – December 6, 2024 — Against the backdrop of twinkling lights and festive decor, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay brought the holiday spirit to life with a stirring rendition of Mykola Leontovich’s “Carol of the Bells”, arranged by Peter Wilhousky, as part of their winter concert “Slay Bells” at Allendale United Methodist Church.
Known for their dynamic performances and tight-knit vocal blend, the chorus delivered an electrifying interpretation of the beloved carol, transforming the historic sanctuary into a cascade of sound and shimmering harmonies. Wilhousky’s arrangement, with its bold choral textures and rhythmic urgency, offered the perfect showcase for the ensemble’s vocal precision and expressive depth.
From the opening notes—quick, bell-like motifs echoing through the hall—to the thunderous, layered crescendo of the final chord, the performance gripped the audience in a spell of musical anticipation and joy. The singers’ diction was sharp and clear, cutting through the rich acoustics of the space with impressive unity. Conductor’s cues were met with crisp responsiveness, and the dynamic shifts—ranging from whisper-soft entrances to powerful fortissimo climaxes—were executed with thrilling control.
What made the moment especially poignant was how the chorus balanced technical mastery with heartfelt delivery. While “Carol of the Bells” is often associated with commercial cheer, the Gay Men’s Chorus imbued it with dramatic gravitas, reminding listeners of the piece’s Ukrainian roots and its timeless evocation of winter’s urgency and wonder.
As part of “Slay Bells”, a concert that embraced both campy holiday fun and choral excellence, this performance stood out as a high point—a perfect blend of tradition, artistry, and the chorus’s signature flair. Audience members were left breathless, many rising in spontaneous applause even before the final echo had faded.
With this unforgettable performance, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Tampa Bay once again affirmed their place as a vital and vibrant part of the region’s cultural landscape, ringing in the season with both style and soul.