A Musical Weekend

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to travel to Vancouver, BC for the American Choral Directors Association’s NW Division Conference. In a word: AMAZING! Friday evening (Canada Night) was the highlight for me with four fabulous Canadian choirs performing. 

Chor Leoni, a men’s choir from Vancouver, led off the night with a beautiful, rich sound. It was delightful to hear so many men sing—from the first few notes to the last I enjoyed hearing the sound wash over me. I will be looking for more live performances from this group. I do own one of their recordings: Magnificat, which has been renamed and re-released as Carols & Lullabies: Christmas in the Southwest. I will be adding to my collection of their music!! 

Cantilon Chamber Choir is the main touring group of 5 levels of choirs for all ages—beginning with children at the age of 4! I was glad to hear the sounds of this youthful group—their literature says this group consisted of children from age 9-19. Beautiful sounds from beautiful young voices! This group is from Edmonton, Alberta—too bad they’re so far away because I know some young children who would love to sing with a group like this! 

Elektra Women’s Choir performed a beautiful version of “Durme, Durme” which was sung in the Ladino language. This is a beautiful lullaby made more so by the voices of these lovely women! 

The final performance was a complete surprise to me. How have I missed this group? musica intima is a group of 12 professional singers who are also working as teachers, directors, composers and arrangers. Do not pass up the opportunity to hear this group!! I have been listening to them online this week on radio intima. My favorite is Loch Lomond…

More later…