The Ombrosa Primary School Choir has continued to flourish in terms of number of children participating, quality of singing, and the sheer enthusiasm at performances.
The first concert was the annual Christmas Concert held in December at the church of L’Immaculée Conception in Caluire. The concert was a good blend of religious English and French carols, such as Away in a Manger, Tomorrow Shall be my Dancing Day, Hymne à la Nuit, and Silent Night. Also in the programme was the lighter side of Christmas, in popular songs such as ‘Dashing through the snow’ and ‘Frosty the Snowman’.
This was to be the only concert held in the church this year as just two weeks later there was a very unfortunate fire which has prevented the church from being used for the past few months.
The choir did their annual presentation at the Portes Ouvertes held this year in February. It provided a good opportunity to promote the Primary School shows (‘Cinderella’ and ‘Phantom of the Opera’), as well demonstrating to the large and appreciative audience what is entailed in being part of a large choir (breathing, good posture and technique, and the self-confidence aspect needed in performing).
With the Caluire Church not as yet repaired and finished in its cleaning (following the fire) the End of Year Choir Concert was held for the first time outside at Ombrosa. For me personally, after nine years of choir concerts, it was a real pleasure performing with the children ‘sur le parc’ at Ombrosa. The choir gave a most uplifting and spirited performance of popular songs from ABBA, the Beatles, Les Choristes, and two Song-Medleys from the world of Walt Disney Films and The Sound of Music. There was also some performances from young musicians, including those who were to take their ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) Grades two days later. Well done everyone!
With the choir numbering 60 to 80 every year, this club ‘La Chorale’ is proving to remain as popular as ever, and I would personally like to thank all children for so loyally giving up part of their lunch-break on two days a week. (Practices takes place every Tuesday and Friday at 11h30 – 12h15 for children in CE, and 12H15 – 13h00 for children in CM).
David Hobourn
