Forthcoming events
We are a busy and active chorus with singing and social events happening all the time - especially as 2010 is our Pearl Anniversary year. Here is a brief snapshot of some of the public activities we're involved in and if you come along, then do come and say hello.
Hazel Grove Music Festival competition - 27th Feb
Sale Festival event - 11th June (opening night act)
National Convention competition at Llandudno - 30th Oct
The MACC at the RNCM (current winner's guest appearance)
Llangollen International Competition 2009
Our first trip to the international festival seemed to be a long time arriving, such was the excitement in the chorus. The presentation preparation, the vocal polishing, the growing nerves... all came together while performing on that spectacular stage on Saturday. Standing backstage the only sound was the noise of our hearts beating! Then once on stage we are reminded by the warmth and cheers from the audience why we love performing and showcasing a cappella singing. It was a thrilling experience, a wonderful day. We came fourth in our class which is a great result for a first appearance at such a world class event.
Congratulations to everyone who performed and thanks to everyone who was part for the festival, Particular congratulations to Westminster Chorus from California - crowning a barbershop group as the 'Choir of the World' taking the Pavarotti Trophy 2009.
The memories of the colourful costumes, drum beats, wonderful dancing, storytelling and more will be with us for a very long time. And no rain from storm clouds above. What a different that makes!
For more information, visit: http://www.llangollen2009.com/ and to watch our performance, visit: http://www.llangollen.tv/en/clip/126
Other previous events
Saturday 3 October
We knew this was going to be a good 'Girls on Tour' trip from the time we arrived in Manchester airport to touch-down in Prague. The buzz of excitement was deafening, or was that the harmony singing in the airport? Saturday was action-packed with our first concert in the beautiful St Nicholas church. What a warm welcome from the audience. We enjoyed this performance in such a breathtaking space, with the harmonies floating up and into the graceful arches above. We then went on a tour organised by Vamos, which took in the amazing history and culture all around, and fulfilled am ambition - to sing on the Charles Bridge. The day finished with a delicious meal in the Monastic Brewery, and a few well-earned drinks!
Sunday 4 October
The day was spend further exploring beautiful Old Prague, winding through cobbled streets, visiting coffee shops, and the main squares. We had barely began to dig deep into what Prague had to offer before our second performance in St Salvatore church was upon us. We were thrilled to have been invited to sing by the professional, classical Prague Choir who were outstanding - and the Crystal Chords harmonies perfectly complemented their performance. Again, the audience was welcoming and were very enthusiastic about the singing.
Monday 5 October
A full day of running around, relaxation and reflection. There was enough time for river and museum trips, buying gifts, more coffee shops and taking in the stunning sights. What a trip! It was thoroughly enjoyable and on the plane back, we had stories to share and memories to keep. As with Bratislava in 2007, it was a unique opportunity and a performance tour well worth talking about for some time to come!
11 July
Llangollen International Music Eisteddfod.
What an amazing festival, a fourth place result and valuable experience for our first visit.
16 May
Chorlton Arts Festival.
Crystal chords presented 'One Voice', a musical journey through life.
5 April
Wedding Fayre, Gawsworth Hall, Macclesfield.
How we love to perform at wedding shows, and what a setting!
18 March
Back at the Retirement Show, Manchester Central. After performing last year, it was good to be there again.
28 Feb
Hazel Grove Music Festival - COMPETITION WINNERS
19 Feb
Presentation from David Mellor of Mellor Country House, Crystal Chords' chosen charity for 2009. Thank you, David, it was interesting to hear first hand how the charity works.
15 Feb
Top class vocal coaching on breathing and dynamic techniques.
13 Feb
Worsley Rotary Club, Novotel.
Thank you to all for the warm welcome and hospitality, we thoroughly enjoyed the night and hope you did too.
7 Feb
Lions charity event for St Francis House, Wilmslow High School. What a good night! We are pleased that a large amount was raised for this great cause.
18 Jan
Singing for fun! jazz/blues/gospel workshop, St Werburgh's Church Chorlton. What began with no music, no words, no notes became quite a day. Thanks to everyone who came.
Watch this space for the next event...