Seven members of the Council of Europe choir (Anne, Emeline, Javier, Maja, Maria Rosa, Vicky and Vita), joined by our retired bass, Emmanuel - who now sings with the UNESCO’s Choir and Christina , who came from London for the occasion, performed Handel's Messiah last weekend with over 500 other choristers.

After regular rehearsals from July to mid-November under the direction of our colleague Anastasia, we managed to meet this challenge, which consisted of singing in 4 voices (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) 18 movements learned more or less by heart.

The event was very well organised by the Venite Cantemus Association which promotes choral singing, not only for the general benefit that it provides but also for the social aspect, giving the possibility to establish contacts with others.

We had the pleasure of rehearsing at La Madeleine church, which was made available to the choristers and musicians for a marathon rehearsal on Saturday, 19 November afternoon, under the direction of Gildas Harnois. The choir, formed specifically for the occasion received reinforcement from a "Little Choir", consisting of talented, young singers.

The following day, the concert was given at the wonderfully restored Opéra-Comique. We were joined by talented soloists: Judith Charron (Soprano), Dorothée Thivet (Alto), Charles Mesrines (Tenor) et Olivier Jean (Bass).

The concert was preceded by a 2-hour rehearsal and followed by a friendly drink, which allowed singers from all over the world (Spain, Great Britain, Australia etc.) to become better acquainted.

The funds raised will go to research conducted by the Institut Pasteur on autism.

More info on the website of Venite Cantemus.