Our Lady of Sorrows Choir

OLOS Choir Christmas Concert 2011: Dec 18 2011

2011-12-25T20:14:00.000-08:00

YouTube video of December 18, 2011, Christmas Concert

Click here for the YouTube video in a separate window, full screen.

Our Lady of Sorrows Choir Christmas Concert 2011
December 18, 2011

Organist Bryan Eber, Choir Director Cathy Toney, Flute, Marybeth Eber,
Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church Choir, West River, Maryland, USA.
December 18, 2011 Concert

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church
101 Owensville Road, West River, MD 20778
Website: http://olos.us/

Right click on any of the following "Track" links which are MP3 files, select "Save Link As ..." or "Save Target As ..." and save locally on your computer. Then open up the files you saved to play them locally on your computer. If you right-click (or Mac: control+click) on the link and your computer gives you a warning about opening files, you can "unblock" it, and open the file normally. All files are safe and were created in OLOS!

FOR MAC USERS: If you are using a Mac, move your mouse to hover over the MP3 link you want, hold down the CONTROL key at the bottom left of the keyboard and THEN click on the MP3 link. Then click "Download Linked File As ..." and save it where you want. THEN open it from that location. It will be available to you from then on, from your local Mac drive. Open the local file using iTunes.

SPECIAL: See "Animoto" video of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" at:
http://animoto.com/play/2sVIU6FzbGcKal4etXDX8g
This video includes photos of the entire December 18, 2011, concert, courtesy Dan Ruffin, photos.

Track 1: (11 minutes, 17 seconds; File size: 10.3MB)
Organ Prelude: Vom Himmel hoch (From Heaven Above) By Walter L. Pelz
Theme:
1. To You This Night is Born a Child…
2. The Blessing Which the Father Planned…
3. My Heart for Very Joy Now Leaps…
4. Were Earth a Thousand Times as Fair…
5. Finale

Track 2: O Come, All Ye Faithful (2 minutes, 38 seconds; File size: 2.41MB)

Track 3: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: By Hal H. Hopson, Arranged by Emily Lund (3 minutes, 34 seconds; File size: 3.26MB)

Track 4: Of the Father’s Love Begotten: Arranged by Gene Grier & Lowell Everson (3 minutes, 31 seconds; File size: 3.22MB)

Track 5: In Bethlehem a Babe Was Born: By John Carter, Words by Mary K. Beall (2 minutes, 45 seconds; File size: 2.53MB)

Track 6: Never Been a Night Like This! By Lloyd Larson (3 minutes, 44 seconds; File size: 3.42MB)

Track 7: In the Bleak Midwinter: By Nathan Jones, Words by: Christina Rossetti (3 minutes, 8 seconds; File size: 2.87MB)

Track 8: Silent Night (3 minutes, 5 seconds; File size: 2.82MB)

Track 9: Rejoice Jerusalem! By Thomas P. Gouin (4 minutes, 23 seconds; File size: 4.1MB)
Verses: Angie Hunter, Bobbie Badger and Ellen Langdon, Don Dillin, John Gasch, Women, Men

Track 10: Mary Had a Baby: Arranged By Bruce A. Thompson (4 minutes, 23 seconds; File size: 4.1MB)

Track 11: Joy to the World (1 minutes, 46 seconds; File size: 1.62MB)

Track 12: And the Glory Of The Lord: By George F. Handel (3 minutes, 53 seconds; File size: 3.56MB)

Many many thanks to Cathy Toney, Bryan Eber, Marybeth Eber, and all the Choir Members for your dedication and joyful work you did to bring us together for this Christmas Concert! And special thanks to Fr Mark for all that you do to make Our Lady of Sorrows Church so special to all of us.

Other downloadable files:
The full Christmas concert, December 18, 2011 (53 minutes, 45 seconds, 49.2MB)

Last Practice in June 2011: Closing Songs and Prayers (16 minutes, 4 seconds, 14.7MB)

CREDITS: Photos by Dan Ruffin (THANKS!). Audio recordings recorded with the Olympus DM-30 digital audio recorder. Audio editing with Audacity. Technical and web: Don Dillin

Christmas Concert 2009

2009-12-30T05:21:00.000-08:00

Our Lady of Sorrows Choir Christmas Concert 2009

Director, Cathy Toney
Organist, Bryan Eber
Flute, Marybeth Eber

Our Lady of Sorrows Church,
West River, Maryland, USA
Dec 23, 24, 2009

NOTE: YouTube Videos are actually audio-only, with visual opening title and photo of choir. MP3's are downloadable to listen on computer or IPOD or other MP3 device, and are better for lower speed internet connections, and range from 2Mb to 10Mb in size.

Midnight Mass, December 24, 2009:
Listen to the entire Midnight Mass at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, West River, Maryland at:
http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Midnight_Mass_at_Our_Lady_of_Sorrows.mp3
Note: This file is very large (53Mb), so please be patient while loading. Recommended only for high speed connections.

Our Lady of Sorrows Choir Concert Program, December 23, 2009 and pre-Mass singing, December 24, 2009

Organ Prelude Variations on a Theme of Samuel Scheidt: Puer Natus in Bethlehem
By: Rebecca Groom Te Velde
1. “A child is born in Bethlehem”
2. “And joy is in Jerusalem”
3. “Rejoice, rejoice, sing high, sing low”
4. “Benedicamus Domino”
5. “To Thee, O Lord, be glory paid”
6. “Thou Son of Mary, mother-maid”
7. “To Holy Trinity give praise, With Deo Gracias always, Alleluia”
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-EjMi6Zn0QM
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Bryans_Opening.mp3

Oh Music
By: David Kauffman
Arranged by: William Gokelman
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDwAgwP0jbk
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Oh_Music.mp3

Creation Will Be at Peace
Words by: J. Paul Williams
Music by: Anna Laura Page
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TqoiQf5ubI
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Creation_Will_Be_At_Peace.mp3

For Unto Us a Child is Born
By John Attebury
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtyIRX0bHJM
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/For_Unto_Us_A_Child_Is_Born.mp3

Coventry Child
Arranged by: Audrey Snyder
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGh21I9gIpA
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Coventry_Child.mp3

Angels Rejoicin’
Arranged by: Patrick M. Liebergen
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrSW6F1FudY
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Sing_Noel.mp3

Sing Lullaby
Text: Sabine Baring-Gould Arranged by: Philip Moore
Verse 1 solo: Ellen Langdon
Verse 2 duet: Angie Hunter & Don Dillin
Verse 3 solo: Katie Fennell
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbzGB5gAaAY
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Sing_Lullaby.mp3

Flute and Organ Duet: A Christmas Interlude
By: Charles Callahan
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTL3HN7lw6c
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Christmas_Interlude.mp3

The Simple Gifts of Christmas
Arranged by: Ed Lojeski
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a7QUH1HE0C0
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Simple_Gifts.mp3

Peace, Peace
Words and music by Rick and Sylvia Powell
Arranged by: Fred Bock
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iVGbq4w0Jk
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Peace_Peace.mp3

In the Silence
Music by: Craig Courtney
Lyrics by: Pamela Martin

Calypso Lullaby
By Joel Raney
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_M7WXh2FuXM
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Calypso_Lullaby.mp3

Gloria
By Franz Joseph Haydn
Edited by: Michael S. Woodman
YouTube Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmaA8UiPyzk
Downloadable MP3: http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Gloria.mp3

Merry Christmas to Father Arek (deployed on military assignment)!
http://annapolis-web.com/oloschoir/Merry_Christmas_for_Father_Arek_Dec_25_2009.mp3

Cathy's Slide Show on Shutterfly

2009-06-13T15:18:00.000-07:00

See Cathy's Slide Show on Shutterfly at:
http://share.shutterfly.com/view/flashShareSlideshow.jsp?sid=9AbsmrVq4csIO

Below are selections from these slides. Just click on any of the photos, below, to enlarge it ... then back button on your browser to return to the blog!

See Updates on Twitter

2009-06-10T00:54:00.001-07:00

No need to actually "follow" twitter, but you can look at updates and Our Lady of Sorrows choir (West River, MD) blog news on the twitter page at: http://twitter.com/oloschoir

Pilgrimage to Ireland: Mini-Movies

2009-06-09T23:45:00.000-07:00

Video Review of Our Lady of Sorrows Choir Pilgrimage to Ireland, May 2009. To start the video, click on the > arrow at the bottom left of the image, above.

Cathy Toney, Director
Bryan Eber, Accompanist
Photos by Bev Fuss. Video by Don Dillin.

Mini-Movie: Sheep Herding in Ireland, Our Lady of Sorrows Pilgrimage to Ireland, May 2009 (DSCN8918.MOV)

Sheep Herding Dogs Round Up the Sheep: May 2009, Kissane Sheep Farm, Molls Gap, Kenmare, County Kerry, Ireland. For details, see: http://www.adopt-a-sheep.ie/sheepdogs.html

Adopt-a-Sheep at http://www.adopt-a-sheep.ie/

Mini-video by Don Dillin
Can also be seen on youtube.com at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lq7YTJBZYM

Pilgrimage to Ireland: VIDEOS!

2009-06-09T18:24:00.000-07:00

Update on June 9, 2009:

Our Lady of Sorrows Choir: Singing in Dublin at John's Lane Church. Photo by Dan Ruffin

At long last, a blog update!! Alas, our Ireland choir pilgrimage didn't leave enough time to update our blog while in Ireland (between daytime singing and touring and nighttime searches for Irish music!) But then the blogmeister was off to Holland, Belgium, France, California, and Illinois for three weeks immediately after the end of the choir tour of Ireland, and has been in "catch-up mode" ever since. Now, finally, some updates! With many many thanks to Dan Ruffin and his first experimentation with a new camera, see Dan Ruffin's Videos of OLOS Choir in Ireland at http://www.youtube.com/results?search_type=&search_query=oloschoir

Virtual Trips

2009-03-23T22:45:00.000-07:00

Virtual Trip to St. Mary's Abbey, Glencairn, Near Cork
See: http://fr.gloria.tv/?media=6254

Blarney Castle

Knock: Basilica

Knock: Celtic Cross

Google Trip Map for Ireland Pilgrimage

2009-03-17T13:41:00.000-07:00

Updated March 23, 2009, to correct the location of Blarney.

The Google Map, below, shows the entire Ireland Pilgrimage Itinerary, with one pre-trip day from Dublin to Bulgaden. The official trip starts at Shannon Airport, marked as placemark "C."

Use the navigation toolbar (the "+" symbol) to zoom in on each destination of our trip including placemarkers for the exact location of hotels, and the general driving routes from place to place.

Click Here to View Larger Map for More Detail!

On the larger map, you can zoom in, "pull the map around" by holding your left mouse button down while dragging your mouse, etc. Using the "satellite view" you can take a virtual tour!

Our Lady of Sorrows Choir: Updates

2009-03-07T06:08:00.000-08:00

Update on December 31, 2009:
Our Lady of Sorrows Choir Christmas Concert -- December 23, 24, 2009 -- is now posted with links to YouTube videos and downloadable MP3's

Update on June 13, 2009: See Cathy's photos and the link to her Shutterfly slide show:
http://oloschoir.blogspot.com/search/label/Cathy%27s%20Slide%20Show%20on%20Shutterfly

Update on June 9, 2009:
At long last, a blog update!! Alas, our Ireland choir pilgrimage didn't leave enough time to update our blog while in Ireland (between daytime singing and touring and nighttime searches for Irish music!) But then the blogmeister was off to Holland, Belgium, France, California, and Illinois for three weeks after the end of the choir tour of Ireland, and has been in "catch-up mode" ever since. Now, finally, some updates! With many many thanks to Dan Ruffin and his first experimentation with a new camera, see videos of the choir singing across Ireland: Dan Ruffin's Videos of OLOS Choir in Ireland at http://www.youtube.com/results?search_type=&search_query=oloschoir

In other postings from today:
See also a slide show of some of Bev Fuss's photos, and sheepdogs rounding up sheep on the Kissane Farm, Molls Gap, Kenmare. (See: http://oloschoir.blogspot.com/search/label/Photos%20by%20Bev%20Fuss)

Updates on March 27, 2009:
Dublin Temperature and 4-day forecast added at top right column.
Maryland and Ireland time clocks moved to just below the "Topics/Labels Links" on the right column.
"Learn an Irish Word a Day" feature added to the bottom of the page! You can read, click and listen to Irish phrases.

Update on March 23, 2009: Corrected location for Blarney Castle on the Google Map.

Updates on St Patrick's Day: March 17, 2009:
See the Google Map of Ireland with placemarkers showing all the main itinerary destinations for the entire trip! The Google Map shows the entire Ireland Pilgrimage Itinerary, with one pre-trip day from Dublin to Bulgaden. The official trip starts at Shannon Airport. Zoom in on map details, including the pinpointed location for our hotels!

Click here or see the new map on this blog

Please add comments to any of these posts -- this is YOUR blog.

Pilgrimage to Ireland: Hotels

2009-03-07T05:55:00.000-08:00

Updated April 23, 2009: Quality Inn at Killarney only has "pay as you go" internet access. See details, below.
Updated March 7, 2009: Confirmed hotels, including websites and locations
Updated March 9, 2009: Angela of Peter's Way confirms internet access in Killarney.

Friday and Saturday, May 1 and 2: Clayton Hotel, Galway
Website: http://www.claytonhotelgalway.ie/
Address: Clayton Hotel - Ballybrit - Galway - Tel: (from US) 011 353 91 721 900 (Calls locally in Ireland: 091 721 900)
Internet access: Free wireless internet in lobby, free broadband connection in rooms; charge for internet access from the in-room TV.

Sunday, May 3: Absolute Hotel in Limerick
Website: http://www.absolutehotel.com/
Absolute Hotel, Sir Harry's Mall, Limerick, Ireland Tel: 011 353 61 463-600 Fax: 011 353 61 463-601 Email: info@absolutehotel.com
Internet access: free web access broadband in rooms, and wi-fi throughout hotel; charge for internet access from the in-room TV.

Monday and Tuesday, May 4 and 5: Quality Hotel in Killarney
Cork Road , Killarney, IE | Phone: From US: 011 353 64 31555 Fax: 011 353 64 32438
Websites: http://www.qualityinn.com/hotel-killarney-ireland-IE064
http://www.choicehotels.ie/hotels/quality/hotel?hotel=IE064
NO Internet access (wired/wireless) in the hotel, but there are "pay as you go" computers in lobby and business center, at 1 euro per minute (about $1.40 per minute)

Wednesday, May 6: Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny
Website: http://www.newparkhotel.com/Newpark_Hotel/index.html
Newpark Hotel, Castlecomer Road, Kilkenny, Ireland
Tel: (from US) 011 353 56 7760500, Fax: (from US) 011 353 56 7760555
reservations@newparkhotel.com
Internet access: free web access broadband in some rooms, and wi-fi in other rooms and throughout the hotel; charge for internet access from an internet computer in the public area.

Thursday and Friday, May 7 and 8: Jurys Inn Parnell Hotel in Dublin
Website: http://dublinhotels.jurysinns.com/jurysinn_parnellstreet
Moore Street Plaza, Parnell Street, Dublin, 1, Ireland
Tel: from US: 011 353 1 878 4900 Fax: 011 353 1 878 4999
Internet access: In-room access: 5 euros for 1 hour, 10 euros for 24 hrs (broadband); wireless in lobby and 2nd floor bar, at same prices.

NOTES on telephoning Ireland:
From the US, all calls to Ireland start with 011 (international access code) 353 (Ireland's country code) and then the rest of the number, dropping the leading "0".

Within Ireland, use the leading "0"

Example: Phone our hotel in Dublin from the US: 011 353 1 878 4900
Phone locally from Dublin: 01 878 4900

Updated: March 7, 2009

Variety Show, March 28, 2009, 6:30pm, at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish Hall:

2009-03-02T20:29:00.000-08:00

Leprechauns led all to a night of
FOOD
FRIVOLITY
and FOLLY

at our famous Dinner and Variety Show Hosted by the Our Lady of Sorrows Choir

Location: Our Lady of Sorrows Church - Parish Hall

Saturday March 28, 2009, at 6:30pm
featuring scrumptious home cooked foods,
a delightful assortment of local talent & a cash bar.

This evening of fun and congeniality supported the Choir's pilgrimage to Ireland in May 2009.

Photos and sound tracks to be posted soon!

Pilgrimage to Ireland: Singing

2009-02-22T21:02:00.000-08:00

Updated April 25, 2009: Two substitutions in the music lineup.
Updated April 6, 2009, to include changes in times. Previously updated to include songs sung during the schedule

Our Lady Of Sorrows Church Choir Pilgrimage to Ireland
(April 30-May 9, 2009)
Singing

(Note: in the order of songs, below: 1 is Entrance, 2 is Offertory, 3 is Communion, 4 is Closing)

Sat, May 2:

12 noon, Knock: Liturgy & Anointing of the Sick at our Lady of Knock Basilica as sung by Our Lady of Sorrow's Church Choir (1,000 to 2,000 worshipers in attendance).

Open My Eyes, Spirit Divine
Offertory
A Classic Communion
Hymn of Triumph

In the afternoon, Galway: Informal singing at the Gothic Memorial Church.

Sun, May 3:
8:30am Mass at Galway Cathedral, as sung by Our Lady of Sorrow's Church Choir.

To God Be Joyful
God is My Rock
O Lord, Bread of Life
The Old Hundredth Psalm Tune

Tues., May 5:
6:15pm Mass, Killarney: St.Mary's Cathedral in Killarney for the scheduled evening Mass as sung by Our Lady of Sorrow's Church Choir.

Glorious Things of You Are Spoken (CC 114)
Come Follow Me
A Classic Communion
The Old Hundredth Psalm Tune

Thursday, May 7:
10:00am, Tipperary: public Mass at the Abbey Church, sung by Our Lady of Sorrows Church Choir.

My Lord What a Mornin’
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring
Be Thou My Vision
Lift High the Cross

Friday, May 8:
This morning, attend the scheduled 11:00am Mass at St. John & St. Augustine Church (also known as John's Lane Church), as sung by Our Lady of Sorrows Church Choir.

Come My Way, My Truth, My Life (WC 812)
Gracious Light
Ave Verum Corpus (St. Gregory Hymnal)
Alleluia, O Praise the Lord Most Holy

Pilgrimage to Ireland: Itinerary

2009-02-22T20:51:00.000-08:00

Updated April 6, 2009 to include changes in itinerary.
Updated March 7, 2009: includes hotels, concert change in Dublin and updates to itinerary. Scheduled choir singing is highlighted in green

Our Lady Of Sorrows Church Choir
Pilgrimage to Ireland (April 30-May 9, 2009)
Daily Itinerary

Day 1. April 30, Thursday: Depart for Shannon
Depart Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport for your overseas journey to Shannon on Continental Airlines via Newark.
Complimentary meals and beverages will be served aloft. (D)

Day 2. May 1, Friday: Arrive Shannon – Corrib River Cruise - Galway
Upon morning arrival at Shannon Airport, proceed through Passport Control, claim your luggage, and your Peter's Way Tour Manager/Guide, Noel, a professor in Galway and Peter's choice for best tour leader, will meet you upon your exit from Customs. Your luggage will be transferred to a comfortable touring bus, and you will be on your way to Galway, capital of the west, affectionately known as "The City of the Tribes." As your hotel rooms may not be ready yet, we enjoy a Corrib Cruise. This journey on the Corrib Princess takes passengers along the majestic River Corrib and onto the lake, providing visitors with wonderful views of the historic monuments and natural amenities that make this one of the most spectacular waterways in Ireland. Then, we drive along the shores of Galway Bay.
Independent lunch, continue for hotel check-in. Afternoon is open for rest and independent exploration.
Dinner and overnight at Clayton Hotel in Galway. (B,D)

Day 3, May 2, Saturday: Connemara, Kylemore Abbey & Knock - Sung Mass in Knock
Irish breakfast at your hotel.
Depart about 8:30am for morning bus trip to Knock. This little town is an important pilgrimage centre and has been famous for over a century as the site of visions, apparitions, and miraculous cures. Knock Shrine contains a number of churches and shrines including the modern Basilica and the Church of the Assumption. In 1879 an apparition of St. Mary, St. Joseph and St. John the Evangelist was recorded, later recognized as authentic. Since then the place has attracted millions of pilgrims each year who gather in front of the Church's wall. The special message of Knock is the need for Penance. There are religious goods shops to be visited, and pilgrims from all over the world to be met!

Attend the 12 noon scheduled Liturgy & Anointing of the Sick at our Lady of Knock Basilica as sung by Our Lady of Sorrows Church Choir (1,000 to 2,000 worshipers in attendance) (subject to final confirmation).

Independent lunch.
This afternoon, travel through the Connemara region enroute to Kylemore Abbey. This is the country of the "Quiet Man" and "The Purple Taxi" – two famous films made in this region. It is an area full of contrast, granite mountains populated only by sheep with hundreds of lakes forming a fisherman's paradise and its seacoast with many sandy beaches. Its stonewalls, small farms, thatched cottages in isolated splendor with its heather covered hills, creates an unforgettable scene for all its visitors. A tour takes us from Galway to the lake dotted center of Connemara at Maam Cross.
Visit Kylemore Abbey, a gothic style castle, built in the 19th century by a rich Liverpool merchant, that today belongs to the Benedictine Nuns. Impressive, hidden between mountains and a lake and surrounded by rhododendrons, the abbey is situated in a romantic place of great beauty. The entrance hall and three other rooms are open to the public. The owner of the Castle, Mr. Henry, built the Gothic Memorial Church in the late 19th century. Restored by the Nuns in a major restoration project, it can be described as a "cathedral in miniature" and is very faithful to the so-called Decorated Style Church. Informal singing at the Gothic Memorial Church.
Return about 6pm for dinner and overnight at Clayton Hotel in Galway. (B,D)

Day 4. May 3, Sunday: Burren region - Cliffs of Moher - Evening/Medieval Castle Dinner
Leisurely Irish breakfast at your hotel. Begin our day with an orientation tour of Galway, visiting the Spanish Arch, the main streets of the city, and ending at the Magnificent Cathedral of Galway. Attend the 8:30am Scheduled Mass at Galway Cathedral, as sung by Our Lady of Sorrows Church Choir.
About 11:00am, bus will depart for a drive through the most spectacular Burren region. (Independent lunch along the way.) "Boirean" is the Irish for "Rocky." It got its name from its polished limestone landscape. It is a glaciokarstic plateau with porous carboniferous limestone and shale systems. It is hard to believe that it was once lightly wooded and covered in soil. At the end of the Stone Age, nearly 6,000 years ago, farmers arrived. The farmers left their animals grazing and this, along with natural weathering, stripped the soil of vegetation leaving this rocky landscape behind. The whole area is heaven for geologists and botanists with its rich liana and fauna. It also has over 2500 historical sites to keep you busy. Stop at Cliffs of Moher. The most majestic cliffs in Ireland rise from the Atlantic Ocean at 215 metres and extend for over seven kilometers. From this height, you can admire the Aran Islands, the Connemara Mountains and listen to the many sea birds that colonize this place from springtime on. Continue to hotel in Limerick arriving about 6pm for check-in, and then off to 6:30pm early seating this evening at the Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Folk Park Castle.

The world famous medieval banquet is a testament to the cultural and social life of its former inhabitants. The ladies of the castle aided an abetted by the Earl's Butler ensure an evening of entertainment which follows in the best tradition of Irish Hospitality. The wine flows as the entertainers recreate the magical atmosphere of the Earl's banquet through drama, music and song. Informal Recital at Bunratty Folk Park Castle.
Overnight at Absolute Hotel in Limerick. (B,D)

Day 5. May 4, Monday: Dingle Peninsula
Irish breakfast at your hotel.
This morning head south through the Dingle Peninsula, one of Ireland's most popular coastal scenery drives. Dingle is the most northern of the Kerry Peninsulas. This peninsula is famous for its Celtic, pre-Christian monuments and Christian churches. It is also a "Gaeltacht" (Irish speaking) area, where the Irish language and traditional ways of life are preserved. Dingle town itself is a thriving fishing town and offers plenty of opportunity for shopping or simply savouring the atmosphere of a typical country Irish town with its plentiful pubs, narrow streets and busy harbour.
Independent lunch enroute.

The road around the Peninsula passes through a chain of Mountains, called Slieve Mish. From Inch, a long beach bordered by dunes and made famous by David Lean's movie "Ryan's daughter," admire the Iveragh Peninsula and Rossbeigh Beach. Drive around the coast to Slea Head. Here the blue of the marine landscape surrounds the Blaskets Islands, deserted since 1953. In the distance are the two rocky Skellig islands, where the ruins of an early Christian Monastery can be found. The Dingle Peninsula will charm you with its villages painted in bright colours, and will bewitch you with the dramatic beauty of its landscapes.
Arrive in Killarney about 5pm for dinner and overnight at Quality Hotel in Killarney. (B,D)

Day 6. May 5, Tuesday: AM/Ring of Kerry – PM/Muckross House - Evening/Sung Mass at St. Mary's Cathedral in Killarney
After Irish breakfast, we tour the Ring of Kerry (166km), the most famous and panoramic route in Ireland. The astonishing beauty of this large peninsula, Iveragh, comes from the great diversity of its scenery, which offers incessant contrasts. Enroute around the Ring, take in spectacular scenery - mountains, peat bogs, lakes and magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean as one travels along the coast road. Leaving Killarney pass through Killorglin, famous for its Puck Fair, then to Glenbeigh where the cliff road affords panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula and Dingle Bay. Continuing to Cahirciveen, you'll pass the birthplace of Ireland's National hero, Daniel O'Connell. Next, continue on through peat bogs to the town of Waterville. See Sneem Village, famous for its brightly coloured houses. The road then continues through the mountains to Molls Gap and Ladies View with superb views of the famous lakes of Killarney.
Independent lunch.

This afternoon, visit Muckross House and Gardens. Built in 1843 by the Herbert Family, in Elizabethan style, this house is one of the most sumptuous residences in Ireland. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, particularly famous for its rhododendrons, Muckross House is in the heart of the Killarney National Park, the first such park opened in Ireland.
Arrive in Killarney about 3pm
This evening you will be transferred to St. Mary's Cathedral in Killarney for the scheduled 6:15pm Mass as sung by Our Lady of Sorrows Church Choir.
Dinner and overnight at Quality Hotel in Killarney. (B,D)

Day 7. May 6, Wednesday: AM/Blarney Castle - Waterford - Kilkenny
Irish breakfast at your hotel.
This morning depart for County Cork to visit Blarney Castle, about an hour's drive away, where you will feel compelled to kiss the Blarney Stone and gain the gift of eloquence or as an 18th century French consul put it, "gain the privilege of telling lies for seven years". The castle itself, a tower house, dates from 1446 and is built on solid limestone. Arrive in Cork about 10am. Stop for shopping at Blarney Woollen Mills, selling high quality Irish crafts. Then we continue to the city of Waterford, which is the oldest city in Ireland, arriviing about 1:30pm. A walled city of Viking origin, it retains much of its medieval character together with the graceful buildings from its 18th century expansion. Visit the world famous Waterford Crystal Factory. The first Waterford crystal factory was founded in 1783 but it only operated until 1851 when it had to close due to punitive taxation. The current factory was opened in 1971. Today it employs a skilled workforce of glass blowers, cutters and engravers who can take from 8 to 10 years to learn their craft. The crystal is produced using red lead, silica sand and potash. Visitors are guided through the different stages of production from the blowing, cutting and engraving areas to seeing the finished product on display in the magnificent showrooms. This afternoon we continue to Waterford, a stronghold founded by the Vikings in 853 AD. At Waterford see the creation of Waterford Crystal on a factory tour.
Independent lunch.

Then, we continue to Kilkenny, the medieval capital of Ireland. Capital of County Kilkenny, the town of Kilkenny is often referred to as "the Marble City." It is the most interesting and best preserved of the medieval Irish cities. It owes its immense charm to the various impressive historical monuments. A medieval city of 24,000 people it is characterized by many beautifully restored buildings and winding slipways ~ it is small and compact enough to explore on foot, yet full of fascinating historical buildings and contemporary shops, design galleries and restaurants.
Arrive in Kilkenny about 5pm for dinner and free evening and overnight at Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny. (B,D)

Day 8. May 7, Thursday: Holy Cross - Rock of Cashel - Dublin – Evening/Gala dinner and show in Dublin
Following an Irish breakfast, we leave to visit Holy Cross Abbey, founded in 1168 for the Benedictines by Donald O'Brien, King of Munster, and transferred about 1182 to the Cistercians. The precious Relic of the True Cross, given by Pope Paschal II to Murtagh O'Brien II, King of Munster in 1110, was magnificently enshrined in the Abbey and Holy Cross became one of the most frequented places of pilgrimage in Ireland. Much rebuilding work was carried out in the first three centuries of the Abbey's existence so that little of the original Romanesque work remains. The Abbey was restored and is now used as a Parish Church. On the grounds of Holy Cross stands Ireland's memorial to the Italian stigmatist Padre Pio. Each May, people gather for an anniversary ceremony and pilgrimages take place on Sundays from May to September. Arrive in time for the 10:00am public Mass at the Abbey Church, sung by Our Lady of Sorrows Church Choir.

Then, we continue to visit the Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland's great historic sites. Cashel was the seat of the Munster Kings from about 370 AD until 1101 AD, when it was granted to the church. It has very early associations with St. Patrick. The magnificent group of ecclesiastical ruins, which crown the Rock includes St. Cormac's Chapel, an outstanding piece of Hiberno-Romanesque art.
Independent lunch.
Proceed to Dublin for hotel check-in.

This evening enjoy dinner and entertainment at the Merry Plough Boys Pub. The former show at Taylor's Three Rock has moved to a different venue in January 2007. This is a state-of-the-art music venue open seven nights a week, all year round. Their lively show features contemporary Irish dancing and well-known guest artists. Fine food is a very important element. At Merry Ploughboy's Pub, youthful vibrancy has successfully combined with traditional craftsmanship to provide an excellent evening entertainment. This will be our "farewell dinner."
Overnight at Jurys Inn Parnell Hotel in Dublin. (B,D)

Day 9. May 8, Friday: Morning at leisure, then tour of Dublin following the 11am Mass at St. John & St. Augustine
Irish breakfast at your hotel, with the morning at leisure until we sing at 11am:

This morning, attend the scheduled 11:00am Mass at St. John & St. Augustine Church, as sung by Our Lady of Sorrows Church Choir.

Independent lunch.

This afternoon we discover Dublin's 'Fair City' in half a day. This tour will allow you to take in all the sights, including the famous 'Doors of Dublin', the elegant Georgian squares, and the Phoenix Park. Highlights of the tour will be a visit to Trinity College to view the 8th century illustrated manuscript, The Book of Kells, followed by a visit to St. Patrick's Cathedral, Ireland's largest Cathedral made famous by its former dean Jonathan Swift, author of "Gulliver's Travels." The cathedral, built in 1213, is the largest in Ireland. This Gothic Cathedral, with a splendid interior, is adorned with Funeral Monuments, such as The Boyle Family Memorial and the grave of Dean Jonathan Swift (Dean of St. Patrick's 1713-1745). The Chancel has ornate stained-glass windows, some by Harry Clarke, which are magnificent features.
We recommend a stroll down Grafton Street where you can enjoy the best in street entertainment and a coffee in Bewleys Cafe. The shopping is also great in this area of the city!

Perhaps you may visit the Guinness Storehouse. Here see how this famous brewery was established and how the popular black brew is created.

Dinner and overnight at Jurys Inn Parnell Hotel in Dublin. (B,D)

Day 10. May 9, Saturday: Return from Dublin
Irish breakfast at your hotel. Leave hotel at 6am for transfer by coach to Dublin Airport, arriving about 7am for your 9am flight home to Baltimore BWI International Airport. (B)

** Unexpected circumstances may require alteration to the details outlined in this itinerary. **

Your Choir Pilgrimage Includes:
* Round-trip economy class via Continental Airlines:
Washington/National / Newark/ Shannon-Dublin / Newark/ Baltimore
* US Departure tax; Customs User fee; Security tax.
* Eight (8) nights accommodations in twin rooms with private facilities at superior tourist class hotels.
* Breakfast and dinner daily, including a Traditional Irish medieval banquet At Bunratty Folk Park Castle or at Knappogue Castle, AND a special dinner, show with live traditional music and Irish Dancers at Merry Ploughboys.
* Meeting and assistance upon departure from Ronald Reagan Washington- National airport.
* Services of a Peter's Way Tour Manager/guide upon arrival to departure in Ireland.
* All sightseeing as per the attached itinerary, including overseas arrival and departure transfers, in a private, deluxe, air-conditioned motorcoach.
* Entrance fees to all sites as per attached itinerary.
* Porterage of one piece of luggage per person at hotels.
* Donations to churches used in programs (standard Mass offering at certain sites is optional)
* Portfolio of travel documents, including a Peter' s Way flight packet.