The Children’s Chorale of Pueblo

Ed & PATTI GALLAGHER

The Children’s Chorale of Pueblo presented their annual Fall Concert on Sunday afternoon, November 23, in Hoag Hall on the campus of CSU-Pueblo. True to the title, “The Whole World Sings”, there were songs from all around the world including Germany, China, Polynesia, the Barbary Coast, Japan, Africa, Spain and America with much of the music sung in the native languages.

The Chorale consists of two choirs, the senior Concert Choir and the younger Apprentice Choir. Both groups were neatly dressed in black slacks and white shirts with red bow ties. The senior group wore bright red cummerbunds. And the stage was adorned with very appropriate autumn décor.

And, what a joyous afternoon it was. The joint choirs opened the concert with a spirited version of “Frere Jacques”, (Brother John, The Whole World Round), sung in several languages. The audience that was filled with many parents, grandparents and siblings bolstered the young performers with loud cheers and bravos throughout the entire event. Pueblo is extremely fortunate to have the Children’s Chorale. Not only does it add another dimension to the Arts Culture of Pueblo, but what it does for the future of those children who participate cannot be measured. To some extent it was demonstrated in the last number, “Shalom”, when six former members joined in singing with the choirs. All have benefitted from their “choir days” including one who is now a music teacher. And, there are many more who gained a love of music and contribute to our society.

The Apprentice Choir sang four songs with much gusto and playful stage movement. They showed their most enjoyment with the singing and swaying during the “Tiki Chant”, a Polynesian number.

The Concert Choir did five numbers displaying wonderful ensemble work, especially their rendering of “Jubilate Deo”. Ryan Finney, a percussionist, added much color to the “African Noel”. Anne Bennett proved to have a very special talent as a soloist in “Rui, Rui, Chiu” and in the touching, “One Candle”.

The Children’s Chorale is blessed to have two expert Directors in Jennifer Shadle-Peters and Betsy Barto. The discipline, concentration and performances of the choir members attested to the professionalism of these directors who consistently focused the attention of the audience onto their young choirs rather than to themselves. In addition to Ms Barto and Ms. Shadle-Peters, both choirs were accompanied by Lori Judkins (Concert Choir) and Lynn Gimlin (Apprentice Choir), both being extremely sensitive to balancing their sound with the choirs. And, finally, kudos to the executive director, Christina Anderson.