FIFTEEN members of the Bendigo Youth Choir have returned from their debut performance at New York’s Carnegie Hall.
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The choristers performed with other youth choirs from around the world when they sang La Avispa Brava (The Angry Wasp) by Venezuelan composer Alberto Grau.
It took a great deal of preparation, rehearsal and fundraising to get the young singers from Bendigo to New York but it was worth it with their performance reportedly receiving a standing ovation.
Chaperone Gail Godber said the chorsiters had realised a dream of so many musicians to perform in Carnegie Hall.
“They were in the throes of intense rehearsals with conductor Maria Guinand (beforehand),” ms Godber said.
“Two of BYC's brave and talented singers – Lucie Griffin and Ava Bonsey – volunteed to audition for solo parts and were successful.”
There were eight children's choirs from Columbia, Venezuela, America, Indonesia and Australia performing as part of the Distinguished Concerts International New York series.
Composer Alberto Grau said he was grateful for the effort of each participant.
“Both works shone and caused an explosion of joy, enthusiasm and admiration in the audience, which we witnessed through their ovations and applause,” he said.
“I hope this is not the last time that I can work with such musical and intelligent choirs and orchestra.”
Conductor Maria Guinard said Carnegie Hall was filled with immense joy and enthusiasm.
“The children sang with deep joy,” she said. “I want to give special thanks to the soloists for their excellent artistic performance.
“All contributed in a very professional way to the success of this premiere. I also thank the parents and directors for their creativity and affection in preparing the costumes.”