A new singing experience

Shannon LeClair
Times Reporter

 

For the first time the Strathmore Children’s Choir sent six of its choral students to sing with the Alberta Children’s Choir (ACC) annual performance. ACC gives choral students between the ages of 11-15 a chance to meet other choir students in their area, and train under the direction of an internationally recognized conductor. This year for ACC South Faye Klassen, was the conductor with Christy Elsner as the guest conductor. The gala concert was held on Feb. 7 at the Knox United Church in Calgary.
“I feel that it is important for all of my singers to learn from other choral directors as it gives them exposure to other ways of learning songs and different techniques. It is also a great experience to sing with such a large group of talented singers,” said Loralee Laycock, Strathmore Children’s Choir’s musical director.
Kianna Doig, Alysse Doig, Rayanne Laycock, Claire Webb, Sarah Dronyk and Shelby Laycock are all members of the Finale Choir, and this was their first year singing with the ACC.
“I wanted to sing in ACC so I could be a part of a different choir and learn things from someone new,” said Shelby.
“Because singing in a choir with that many kids who all blend so well together is amazing. And learning things from a different conductor is a great experience,” said Rayanne, about why she wanted to participate in the ACC.
“It is a good experience and you can learn new things to improve your singing,” said Kianna.
Each of the girls had a different reason why they enjoyed practicing for the gala.
“Being able to sing with lots of other kids from Alberta and learning new things from the instructor,” said Alysse.
“I loved the rehearsals and working with the conductor. She had so many great ways to get us to sing better and work together as a group,” said Rayanne.
“I loved singing with so many people who were so talented and learning so much from our conductor,” said Shelby.
Being a part of choir brings something new to each of the girls, including a good experience and providing musical ability.
“I love choir because I think singing with other people who love music and learning to sound great together is important,” said Shelby.
“Choir is important because it teaches you to sing together in a group but sound like one voice. It helps you work together towards a common goal,” said Rayanne.
All of the girls had a great time and plan to participate in ACC again next year.