The Julia’s House Choir, comprising dedicated staff, volunteers and some of the children and families supported by the charity, is proud to announce the release of our Christmas single, Silent Night featuring James McVey. The single is a modified rendition to the tune of the classic carol and is available now, to mark the end of our 20th anniversary year.
WATCH THE SILENT NIGHT MUSIC VIDEO >>
The release of Silent Night has been made possible thanks to a community collaboration of local musicians and businesses, uniting for a cause that truly matters. Proceeds raised from the single, which features Julia’s House patron and musician, James McVey, on guest vocals (best known as singer/guitarist in British pop band, The Vamps) will go towards our Christmas Appeal, which you can also donate direct to HERE.
Capturing the spirit of Christmas
Silent Night’s score is beautifully played by Braishfield String Quartet, Dorset’s legendry ‘piano man’ Matt Black, and five-piece band The Defectors, with the help of accomplished musician and orchestral leader, Ian Partridge. Vocals also include choir leader and professional singer, Clairelouise Moore, of The Sensational Sweets.
Heartfelt words have been written for the verses of Silent Night by our Chief Executive, Martin Edwards, who sheds light on the round-the-clock care provided to families at our hospices in Corfe Mullen and Devizes.
He says, “Singing in the choir is great for everyone’s wellbeing, and it’s so moving with the children joining in. We decided to convey a little about our care service, by writing alternative lyrics to Silent Night, depicting a night of care at the hospice during Christmas; how children make friendships together there, and how we support families throughout the tough times. It's our own special take on the spirit of Christmas.”
Lyrics from one of the verses reads:
Silent Night, Holy Night,
The house is bathed in soft moonlight.
Children playing together, making friendships forever.
Nurses and carers around, care and compassion abound.
The recording of Silent Night took place at the prestigious Echo Town Music Studios in Dorchester earlier this autumn - as a ‘gift in kind’ from owners Nick and Grace Capaldi, who are both avid supporters of local charities. Nick himself is a renowned singer/songwriter and solo recording artist in the south-west.
The charity choir was launched in spring 2023 by Julia’s House colleagues, Clairelouise Moore, Martin Edwards and Retail Manager, David Hutchings, initially as a wellbeing project for staff and volunteers. The choir has met and rehearsed weekly in Christ’s Church, Creekmoor.
Choir leader, Clairelouise Moore, says, “Some colleagues and I were talking last Christmas about starting a Julia’s House choir and the 20th anniversary year of the charity seemed like the perfect time. Our sessions are all about unity and about having fun!
“Little did we know that a bit of magic was soon about to happen. Out of the blue, we received an email from Nick and Grace Capaldi from Echo Town Studios, asking if Julia’s House wanted to use their recording studio. Since then, the help and support we’ve received from the local community, musicians and businesses to make our Christmas single happen has been extraordinary! We are immensely grateful to all those who have made our own special version of Silent Night possible - it’s a meaningful initiative that we hope will be a beautiful addition to everyone’s holiday season.”
The single’s cover image has been created by local artist, Phil Johnson from Elle Media Group, and the song is available on all major music streaming platforms including Spotify and Apple Music from Monday 4 December. A limited number of CDs are also available to buy via the online Julia's House shop where an accompanying music video can be viewed and shared.
The filming of the single’s video is thanks to the effort of 11 students and a lecturer from Bournemouth University and Drone Age Technology.
Donations directly towards the Julia’s House Christmas Appeal – to help make magical memories for children like Addy - can be made HERE or by calling 01202 644220.
The choir will be performing at the Julia’s House Carols by Candlelight service at St James’ Church, Poole on Thursday 7 December.
