Song for a winter’s day & Song for a winter’s night
November 28, 2026 | 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
Jane Mallett Theatre | St. Lawrence Centre for the Arts, 27 Front St E, Toronto, ON
Susan Cooper’s The Shortest Day looks across centuries of midwinter tradition: fires burning through the night, homes hung with evergreen, and people singing and dancing against the dark.
At the heart of our Winter Concert is a staged telling of Cooper’s poem, woven throughout the music from beginning to end. A series of staged pieces and choral works gives life to its vivid winter imagery, from snowfall, candlelight and long nights to dancing, celebration and the promise of returning light.
The program shifts between winter’s quieter moments and the joy of voices coming together. With live instrumental accompaniment, CCOC’s young artists perform works by Marie-Claire Saindon, Katerina Gimon, Benjamin Britten, Amy Beach, John Beckwith and more. The repertoire includes lullabies, playful rhythmic works, songs of snow and light, and music rooted in seasonal traditions from around the world.
The concert also features the world premiere of Soir d’hiver, a new work by CCOC pianist Stéphane Mayer. Both performances conclude with a cherished company tradition: Gordon Lightfoot’s iconic Song for a Winter’s Night, arranged by Chris and Charissa Bagan.
Join us for a winter gathering alive with story, song and the joyful sound of young voices.
PerformanceS and Ticket Information
Song for a Winter’s Day
Saturday, November 28th, 2026 | 3:00 PM
Featuring all CCOC ensembles
From the youngest voices to our most experienced singers, the full company brings Susan Cooper’s The Shortest Day to life through music and storytelling. Inspired by centuries of midwinter traditions, this afternoon performance celebrates the warmth of gathering together, with songs of snow, light and the joyful anticipation of brighter days ahead.
Song for a Winter’s Night
Saturday, November 28th, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Featuring the Intermediate Chorus, Principal Chorus and Young Artist Studio
As the longest nights of winter approach, our older ensembles explore the season’s contrasting moods through expressive choral works and a staged telling of Susan Cooper’s The Shortest Day. Moving from the stillness of winter evenings to the energy of music and celebration, this performance reflects the enduring traditions that bring people together and the promise of returning light.
Run time: Approximately 60–75 minutes with no intermission.
Tickets
Premium Seating
Adult/Senior $42.00* | Youth (18 & under)/Arts Worker $29.00*
Standard Seating
Adult/Senior $36.00* | Youth (18 & under)/Arts Worker $26.00*
* Plus applicable fees.
Please note that all tickets are non-refundable.
All patrons, including infants and young children, are required to hold a valid ticket for admission to the performances.
ARTISTIC AND CREATIVE TEAM
Meet the incredible Conductors, Head of Drama, collaborative pianists, and Program Assistants who have been mentoring our young singers for the last three months in preparation for this fantastic gathering of song and storytelling.