with ST. MICHAEL’S CATHEDRAL CHORISTERS Under the direction of RT. REV. J. E. RONAN, D.P., M.C.G.
Tuesday, December 18th, 1956
CHAIRMAN: The President, Mr. Donald H. Jupp.
MR. JUPP: The Christmas Party has always been a great occasion for the Empire Club of Canada and today we are happy to welcome many family parties, a great many ladies and other guests. In the joyful confusion which reigns at this time of the year, we feel our hearts open to give and receive goodwill and understanding. I am sure that our party today has contributed in full measure to the uplifting of spirits. Our hosts at the Royal York have provided excellent fare, the traditional Turkey and Plum Pudding served with due pomp and ceremony. I am sure that I voice the feelings of all present when I say thank you to all who have taken part in serving such a fine banquet.
And now we come to the part of the programme we have been anticipating with the keenest pleasure–the presentation of the St. Michael’s Cathedral Choristers by their Director, Monsignor J. E. Ronan.
I was intrigued to learn that while still a young Priest, the Director was asked to form a choir at St. Michael’s Cathedral and that this small beginning has blossomed into the famous choir we shall hear today. Many of the first choristers are men singers now and there are cases of father and son fellow-choristers. The Choir grew into a Choir School and as enrolment increased it was necessary to have a special building. His Eminence Cardinal McGuigan made this possible at the time of his elevation as a Prince of the Church when he turned over for the purpose, a generous purse which had been presented to him. This was the start of the campaign fund and in the building today there is a school of some 180 boys.
St. Michael’s School of Sacred Music is affiliated with the Pontifical Institute of Sacred Music at Rome by a decree received on May 9th, 1955 and has the power to grant degrees of Bachelor of Sacred Music, Bachelor of Gregorian Chant, Bachelor of Sacred Organ and Bachelor of Sacred Composition. Such are the fruits of years of dedicated service performed by Monsignor Ronan.
I have much pleasure in calling upon our distinguished guest Monsignor Ronan to present the St. Michael’s Cathedral Choristers.
– THE CHOIR SANG –
THANKS OF THE MEETING were expressed by Mrs. Roland Mitchener.
