CD SPOTLIGHT -- Qui Creavit Celum -- The First Stairwell Caroller CD

In May, 1997, we recorded our first CD, a Christmas Carol collection, named for Pierre's original lullaby-like Christmas carol, Qui creavit celum.

It became the title track which started a tradition -- each of our Christmas CDs to date have an original carol by Pierre as the title track. It has 27 Christmas carols -- some familiar, some not so common, but all beautiful and a joy to sing. I listen to that CD, mixed in with other Christmas music and invariably ask Pete. "Is that us?" 

At that moment, for a second, I can appreciate our music as the audience must -- as if I had no part in creating it.

original "proof" of  Qui creavit celum  back cover

Katrina in 1993

Our first CD recording was a bittersweet accomplishment, since it was to be the last time one of my best friends, and fellow Alto, Katrina Fowler, would lift her angelic voice in song.

She was in a great deal of discomfort during the recording sessions, but soldiered on -- it was so important to her to get this one last thing done. To get it on record for all time.Barely one month after we finished the recording, Katrina would succumb to her breast cancer. She had battled it for two years from the onset, so her struggle was a short but brave one.



We dedicated Qui creavit celum to her memory, and a portion of the proceeds went to breast cancer research.

Liner Notes for CD

Details of each carol on the inner booklet

UPDATE -- OCDSB Arts recognition award to Pete Massie

Pierre Massie OCDSB Arts Integration Award 2010-2011

Pierre waiting for the event to begin

We went to the Gala at the OCDSB board office and I think Pete was a bit nervous.

Pete was thrilled to see so many friends and colleagues in attendance

It was all very grand. The place was packed with well-wishers for all the award-winners and my face got sore from smiling. Fellow carollers, friends and colleagues were there to share in Pete's big night and he was surprised how many came. He is at  heart a big softie and truly a modest person. His former principal, Pat Kulka was the one who nominated him for the award without his knowledge and kept it secret till she knew he had won.

Afterwards there was an abundant spread of munchies and enough Bridgehead coffee to satisfy the excited but exhausted gaggle of educators.

A lovely night in all -- Thanks Pat -- and of course the OCDSB.


Official OCDSB Awards announcement
Why Pete got this award.

Qui creavit celum by Pierre Massie -- The Stairwell Carollers, video from their 30th Anniversary Concert

Wreath designed by Judy McCallum

"Qui creavit celum" performed by The Stairwell Carollers on Dec 15, 2007 at their "30 Year of Song" concert. This concert celebrated the 30th anniversary for the group.

The Stairwell Carollers are an a cappella Ottawa choir, formed in 1977 by director Pierre Massie. A non-profit organization, they raise funds for local charities through concert, CD and cookbook sales.

Buy our CDs!!! This version of "Qui creavit celum", written by the director of the Stairwell Carollers, Pierre Massie,  is available on our "Qui creavit celum" CD.