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For over a century, Calrossy Anglican School has celebrated the Christmas season with the cherished tradition of the Calrossy Christmas Carols. Since its foundation in 1919, the Carols have brought students, staff, families, and the wider community together in joyous song and reflection. Evolving over the years, this beloved event continues to encapsulate the spirit of Calrossy, highlighting its strong Anglican heritage and enduring sense of community.

A Tradition of Harmony

One of the hallmarks of the Calrossy Christmas Carols is its dedication to music. Since the early days, the event has showcased the talent of its students, with a particular focus on choral singing. A signature piece of the evening, The Lord Bless You and Keep You by John Rutter, has been sung in three-part harmony by Calrossy Girls for generations and remains the final, reverent note of the event.

When the School amalgamated, opening its doors to boys and the Junior School, the Carols embraced a more inclusive and family-friendly format. While the venue shifted to the William Cowper Campus to accommodate larger audiences, the timeless tradition of Rutter's blessing was retained as a nod to Calrossy's history.

In recent years, a new tradition has blossomed: the school-wide performance of Tim Sherlock’s Kyrie Eleison. This moving piece, performed in three-part harmony by students across all year levels, has become the penultimate song of the evening, uniting the School in a shared expression of hope and faith.

Celebrating the True Spirit of Christmas

Rev. Mark Rundle, Chaplain at Calrossy, reflects on the significance of the event: " Christmas is a time to celebrate God’s great love for us, shown in the gift of Jesus our Saviour. The Calrossy Christmas Carols provide a special opportunity to hear again this message as a community, in the words that are sung and spoken. It's a moment to pause and come in worship, to celebrate the joy and peace that Christ mas brings."

The Carols also embody the School’s Anglican traditions, emphasizing the importance of worship and service. As Principal Mr. David Smith explains:
"At Calrossy, we are deeply rooted in our Christian values. The Christmas Carols are more than a performance; they are a reflection of our commitment to community, faith, and the timeless message of hope and joy that Christmas represents."

Head of Music Mrs. Naomi Turner adds:
"Our students pour their hearts into these performances, and the result is something truly magical. It’s an opportunity for families to witness the incredible talent of our students and to join together in celebration. The Carols are a gift from Calrossy to the community and a highlight of the school year."

An Invitation to the Community

Calrossy is proud to welcome parents, alumni, and the broader community to this annual event. The Carols not only honor long-standing traditions but also create new memories for all who attend. Each year, the event reflects the school’s motto, Learn, Grow, Serve, as students and staff collaborate to create a truly memorable evening.

Whether you are drawn by the angelic voices of the Junior Choir, the stirring harmonies of Kyrie Eleison, or the timeless blessing of The Lord Bless You and Keep You, the Calrossy Christmas Carols are a must-attend event. They are a celebration of community, faith, and the spirit of Christmas—a tradition that promises to warm hearts and inspire hope. During the Service we’ll continue our tradition of taking up a collection for Anglicare’s Christmas Appeal, to support those in our region who are doing it tough and in great need at this time of year.

This year’s Calrossy Christmas Carols will take place on 11th December from 6.30pm at the William Cowper Campus. Join us as we celebrate the joy of Christmas and share in this beautiful tradition.