Maddy Gordon
Special to Niagara Now/The Lake Report
The award-winning Chorus Niagara Children’s Choir will host its first live concert in over two years, “Music In The Air,” on May 29 at the Simcoe Park Bandshell in downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake.
The 3 p.m. performance will feature an ensemble of 55 young singers, all ranging in age from 3 to 18.
“To be able to look out into the audience and see our friends, family and choral community supporting the kids in this choir is something I’m really looking forward to,” said Amanda Nelli, the choir's artistic director.
The group has performed at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre as well as the Bravo! Niagara Festival for the Arts, and also shared the stage with musical artists Pavlo Simtikidis, an internationally renowned guitarist, and Measha Brueggergosman, a Juno award-winning soprano.
The choir also has been honoured with a gold award at MusicFest Canada, a national competition, and prior to the pandemic members were invited to perform at the national choir conference, Podium Choral Conference and Festival.
Despite the choir being moved entirely online for over a year, including virtual performances and rehearsals, the group has persevered and is now excited to welcome an audience back to in-person live performances.
“You really can’t replicate the joy that comes from the experience of singing together,” said Nelli on having to run the choir virtually for so long.
The company focuses on developing music literacy skills and providing performance opportunities for children with a passion for music.
“My hope is for that love of music to stay with the children for the rest of their lives,” said Nelli. “Not only do their musical skills develop but their confidence in themselvees as well, which is just so exciting to see.”
Tickets ($15 plus fees) for “Music In The Air,” are available at https://www.chorusniagaracc.org.
The choir also is accepting new singers ages 3 to 18 for its Carnegie Hall trip next year. No auditions are required and details can be found on the group's website.