Sarah MacDonald is a Canadian-born UK-based conductor, composer, pianist, and organist, widely recognized for her contributions to choral music. "Crux Fidelis" translates to "Faithful Cross" and is a hymn that venerates the Cross on which Jesus was crucified.

Sarah MacDonald's Crux Fidelis

In the context of choral music, "Crux Fidelis" settings are often characterized by their reflective, solemn, and deeply emotional nature, aiming to capture the profound spirituality and the significance of the Cross in Christian faith. Given MacDonald's reputation for creating beautiful and textured choral works, "Crux Fidelis" embodies the qualities of sacrifice and crucifixion, making it a fitting choice for a choral performance during Lent, specially on Good Friday, a day commemorating the sufferings of Jesus and his death at Calvary.

Renowned baritone Roderick Bryce, originally from Edinburgh, Scotland, is the Director of Music at St. Joseph’s Basilica. With a rich history of performances across Scotland, Northern Ireland, France, and Japan, including broadcasting on BBC Radio 4 and working with groups like Cappella Nova and Dunedin Consort, Bryce brings extensive experience as a vocalist, teacher, and director.

Roderick was director of the Scottish Chamber Choir; founder and director of Sospiro Baroque and chorus master for the Erskine Stewart’s Melville Choir. In addition to a busy private teaching practice, he also taught singing for City of Edinburgh Council, Loretto School and Fettes College.

Catch Roderick and his choir A Joyful Noise with Pro Coro Canada on March 29th at our special Good Friday concert with the sounds of Fauré, Bruckner, Mealor, MacDonald, and more.