Still in the Spirit

To end our last day in Stephenville on a musical note the choristers sang almost all the way home. Let me tell you the joy and spirit of music is indeed very catching!

All of us truly enjoyed and appreciated the great hospitality of the people in the area and one thing we are all sure of - we will not wait another 36 years until we return.


The last few days went by increadibly fast, too bad we have to leave.

We would also like to take the opportunity to thank all of those who contributed to make this happen!! Thank you for allowing us to bring the Munich Youth Choirs in your region.

Standing Ovations for a memorable performance

This afternoon the Munich Youth Choirs performed in the beautiful setting of Our Lady of Mercy Heritage Church.

It was the first full lenght concert of the Saltwater Joys Tour and what a job they did!

The concert was divided into two parts. For the first half we enjoyed a variety of sacred music and listened to a number of stunning solos as well. The second half started off with German and Irish traditionals and included pieces from all continents and styles. It was easy to see that the singers were enjoying every moment of their performance.

This was cleary reflected by the audience's reaction and inspired the choristers to give their best. They did not disappoint. One audience member said: "I just had to be here. There's no way I would have missed this concert. It was well worth it."The Munich Youth Choirs did an excellent job and earned the standing ovations they received. Many were astounded at the variety of the program as well as the depth of the voices.

The time and effort spent in their musical training was evident and certainly paid off. If you want to experience them sing, check this blog for a performance near you.

A great beginning at St. Stephen's

The Munich Youth Choirs had a true day of sharing music this Sunday.

Prior to the 11:00am service at St. Stephen's they presented a couple of songs and then had the honor to accompany mass.

Our choiristers received a very warm welcome from the parishioners and thanked them with singing some beautiful songs of worship, ending mass with Händels Halleluja Chorus.

Listening to these magnificent young voices does truly lift your spirits. If they are performing in a community near you, make a point to go see them!

Performance at the Intermission at the British Invasion at the Stephenville Theatre Festival

Before it was time to return to our temporary home we had one more stop to make. The Munich Youth Choirs appeared at the intermission of tonights show at the Stephenville Theatre Festival. It was the first time in 36 years for the Munich Youth Choirs to appear at the Arts and Culture Centre - the Munich Boys Choir gave the first commercial concert in the Centre back in 1975.

The Choirs received a standing ovation for their performance and we would like to remind everyone that they will give a concert tomorrow, July 31st, at 3:00pm at our Lady of Mercy. Come and see the full program that the Munich Youth Choirs have to offer!

Bienvenue à Boute du Cap

From the picnic lunch it was off to Cape St. George where we enjoyed another excellent welcome. Our hosts had organized a walk around Cap St. George as well as a visit to Mainland. Filled with lots of impressions of the area it was then time to share the joy of music with a number of local musicians.

Before the Munich Youth Choirs had their turn to sing a selection of songs we enjoyed listening to a couple of great young accordionists, accompanied by guitar, a pianist as well as an absolutely stunning performance of Mi'Kmaq drumming. This was a true moment of sharing and everyone's soul was filled with music. The evening ended with a fabulous feed for all performers and made for a lot of interesting conversations.

Day 3 of the Saltwater Joys tour

The third day of our journey proved to be at least as enjoyable as the previous two. Starting off our journey to the Cape we stopped for a picknick lunch at the hidden falls.
Rock formations in the area invited us to explore and provided yet another great opportunity to take pictures.

Bonfire in Kippens

The second evening ended with a bonfire - enjoying the ocean air and singing songs with people from the area.
We had great people playing the guitar, the spoons and whistle.



Some of us also had the opportunity to take a walk along the trail and the shore, picking up some driftwood on the way back.

Thanks to everyone who arranged and participated in this enjoyable eveining. It was a wonderful end to a wonderful day.

Break at the beach

Before returning to their temporary home the Munich Youth Choirs enjoyed some beach time in the Bay St. Georges area.

The choristers had a lot of fun running around in the sand and enjoying the sunshine.

Visit to the Mi'Kmaq Museum in St. George's

In the afternoon the Munich Youth Choirs had the opportunity to garner more information about the life, history and culture of the Mi'Kmaq people. We were given an insight into Mi'Kmaq legend by hearing some of the stories around Glooscap, the most important mythical cultural hero of their people.

Performance at the Arcadian Village

The Munich Youth Choirs gave an enjoyable performance at the Arcadian Village Senior Retirement Living Complex, bringing their joy of music to their audience. Many commented after about how much they appreciated the music, the songs and the people.

Visit to the Al Paca Farm

Our activities on Thursday included a stop over in Felix Cove, where we visited the Al Paca Farm.

We learnt that Al Pacas are very shy and gentle aninmals. Those who wanted had the opportunity to feed them.

Did you know that that Al Paca fiber is hair and not wool? Whereas similar to sheeps wool it is warmer and does not contain lanolin, making it hypoallergenic.

Day 2 in Stephenville

Following an early night on Thursday which allowed the choristers to get over the jet lag and time difference, the second day started with a brief rehearsal at St. Stephen's.

This is where the Munich Youth Choirs will accompany mass on Sunday, July 31st at 11:00am.

Back After 36 Years! Munich Youth Choirs Performing in Stephenville Arts and Culture Centre as a part of the Stephenville Theatre Festival July 30th During Intermission

After appearing 36 years ago as the Munich Boys Choir in the Arts and Culture Centre in Stephenville, it is long overdue that they return to perform again. On Saturday night July 30th The Munich Youth Choirs(Munich Boys & Girls Choirs) will be appearing during the intermission of the British Invasion to perform a few of their songs. The Munich Youth Choirs are excited about this opportunity to be involved with the well known Stephenville Theatre Festival.

 Below are links to The Arts and Culture Centre in Stephenville where The Munich Boys Choir first appeared in 1975 and the 33rd Annual Stephenville Theatre Festival!

http://www.artsandculturecentre.com/stephenville/index.html


http://stf.nf.ca/

Hope to see you there on Saturday Night!

Don't forget you can also see the Munich Youth Choirs accompanying a Mass on Sunday Morning July 31st at St.Stephen's Church in Stephenville at 11am and at Our Lady of Mercy Heritage Church in Port au Port West at 3pm.

Tickets for the Concert at Our Lady of Mercy Heritage Church are available at Debbie's Video on Main Street in Stephenville, More for Less Food Stores on Harold Ave in Corner Brook or by calling Dan McCann at 648-2745

Tickets: $15 in advance $18 at the door and $8 for Children under 12

RCMP Musical Ride

Tonight the Munich Youth Choirs had the chance to see the RCMP Musical Ride in Stephenville.

Even our bus driver and one of our tour organizers - both being born and raised in Newfoundland - had not seen it before. The way they work with their horses is truly admirable.


This definitely made for a great ending of our first day here.
Let's see what tomorrow brings.

Our Lady of Mercy - our concert venue for Sunday July 31st

The Munich Youth Choirs had the opportunity to see Our Lady of Mercy this afternoon.

Since we were there anyway it was the perfect time to test the acustics - absolutely stunning!

The voices carry all the way to the last pew and no sound is lost. To hear more come to our concert at Our Lady of Mercy this Sunday, July 31st at 3:00pm.

Tickets are available at Debbie's Video on Main Street Stephenville, at More for Less Food Stores on Harold Ave in Corner Brook or by calling Dan McCann at 648-2745
Admission is $15 in advance or $18 at the door. Children under 12 pay $8.

Gravels Trail

The weather gods were with us and so were two very knowledgeble people - a perfect way to do the Gravels Trail. We learnt a lot about the geology and history of the area and I added a few more English words to my vocabulary. We thank our guides for their time and effort to shed more light on the Gravels Trail. Wish we could have done it all.

Means of Transport in Stephenville

Who would have thought that the first highlight of the day turned out to be a ride on a school bus?

It is this bus which took us to a couple of great places and events this day - from a walk of the Gravels Trail to a rehearsal at Our Lady of Mercy and the RCMP Musical Ride.

First Day in Stephenville

... and only getting started. In a few minutes we will be leaving for a leisurely pre-viewing of Our Lady of Mercy, the venue for our concert on Sunday, July 31st at 3:00pm.

The College of North Atlantic, where we are staying, gave us an excellent welcome and made us feel right at home. More details about what we will be doing today to follow shortly. Please check in again.

Best wishes to our families and friends back in Germany - we are certainly having a great time here!

Arrived with cheers of welcome

Finally at 0:23am the Munich Youth Choirs touched down in Deer Lake, Newfoundland. Following 90 more minutes on the bus we arrived in Stephenville, our home for the next four days. This is just a quick message to let everyone know that we made it! Now it's off to bed. The adventure has begun.

A quick hello from on the way

The longest part ot the journey is already behind us, we are currently at Toronto airport waiting for our onward flight. So far so good, we had a smooth overseas journey, no luggage and no chorister got lost on the way... and all are in a good mood. We are inbetween time zones and hanging in there. Only a few more hours and we will be landing in Newfoundland!!

Off we go - destination Newfoundland

The day of departure has finally arrived, the adventure can begin.

Loaded with lots of luggage and packed with excitement the Munich Youth Choirs will bring their joy of singing to the beautiful province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Looking forward to a terrific tour, meeting great people and exploring outstanding sites. Come and see us when we are in a community near you!

2 Days and Counting: Reminder about Concert at Our Lady of Mercy Heritage Church on July 31st at 3pm

In 2 days the Munich Youth Choirs(Junge Choere Muenchen) will be arriving in Newfoundland and Labrador for the first part of the Salt Water Joys Tour. Starting on the West Coast of Newfoundland, they will be taking part in activities in Stephenville as well as the Port au Port Peninsula and performing.  Our Lady of Mercy Heritage Church is one of the places where the Munich Youth Choirs will be performing on July 31st 2011 at 3pm.  If you have never been to this Heritage Church, go there and see it. It is absolutely stunning! Come to the concert and hear the Munich Youth Choirs perform, it will be one of the highlights of this summer. They will sing in 4 languages: English, French, German and Japenese! Songs from Musicals, Religious, Secular, and Traditional songs from Newfoundland and Labrador as well as some surprises, you will be entertained. Come join us and share the joy of music!

Tickets are $ 15 in advance, $ 18 at the door and $8 for children under 12

Tickets are available at Debbies Video on Main Street in Stephenville, at More for Less Food Stores on Harold Ave in Corner Brook and by calling Dan McCann at 648-2745.

Final rehearsal before going on Tour

Today was the final rehearsal prior to the 2011 Saltwater Joys Tour.

We had a prominent guest from the St. Bonifaz Abbey who bade the choir farewell and blessed all of us who are getting ready for the adventure.

Accompanied by piano, accordion and guitar the Munich Youth Choirs are a true inspiration and make you want to join in their singing. At least that is exactly what I feel like doing! All of us who are going are hoping for a safe and pleasant journey and are absolutely ecstatic about this trip - Newfoundland, here we come!

Review of Munich Youth Choirs Accompanying Church Service in Rain, Bavaria in German

Article in German about the Munich Youth Choirs accompanying Church service in Rain, Bavaria from the Augsburger Allgemeine Zeitung July 21st  2011

http://www.augsburger-allgemeine.de/donauwoerth/Berauschendes-musikalisches-Fest-id15988831.html

Concert at Cupids United Church on Sunday Aug 14th at 7pm

On Sunday Aug 14th at 7pm the Munich Youth Choirs will be singing as part of their Salt Water Joys Tour in Cupids United Church (Next to the Cupids Legacy Centre). Details soon about where you can get tickets. Check back here for more information.

Accompanying Church Service at Coughlan United Church on Sunday Aug 14th at 10:30am

On Sunday Aug 14th at 10:30am in Coughlan United Church in Harbour Grace, the Munich Youth Choirs will be accompanying the church service.  We hope that you will come to the service and hear the songs of worship as sung by the Munich Youth Choirs.

Farewell Performance at High School Summer Party

Though it has not been much of a summer lately, this was the day of the summer party at Luitpold Gymnasium, a local High School and a performance opportunity for the Munich Youth Choirs.

They did draw quite a crowd when presenting a variety of songs. Most of the group will be leaving for this summer's Saltwater Joys Tour shortly. With a vast repertoire ranging from religious to secular music from all eras and continents, from traditional to contemporary songs this group will certainly appeal to all listeners.

If you are looking for an uplifting experience, make sure to come and see them perform when they are in your area.

Lunch Time Performance in the City of Mount Pearl on Aug 18th

The Munich Youth Choirs are pleased to announce they will be doing a Lunch Time concert in the City of Mount Pearl on Aug 18th 2011. Please check this blog later for an update and more details.

Latest Performance in Germany - Preparation for the Tour

Last weekend the choral circle "Sängerkreis Unterer Lech" of Rain am Lech, a municipality in Swabia, Bavaria celebrated the 60th anniversary of its foundation.
The Munich Youth Choirs were invited to perform on this occasion singing a selection of the repertoire they are going to present during the Saltwater Joys tour.

We would like to remind everyone that the tour commences next week. The Munich Youth Choirs are ready to share their joy of music with you. Come and see them at their first concert on Sunday, July 31st at 3:00pm at Our Lady of Mercy Heritage Church in Port au Port West.

Looking forward to seeing you there!


This is a link to a review of last weekend's performance (article in German): http://www.augsburger-allgemeine.de/donauwoerth/Jungend-setzt-sich-in-Szene-id15975676.html

One more week to go...

Preparations are running at full speed, songs are being rehearsed, suitcases waiting to be packed. A week from now and we will board a plane, ready to cross the big pond!

I know mountains are being moved in Newfoundland and am deeply greatful to all these fabulous people who keep on digging. Back here in Munich the choristers are really getting up to speed as well, these kids are absolutely amazing and listening to them will sweep you off your feet.

Looking very much forward to coming!!

Accompanying Sunday Aug 7th Church Service in Trinity United at 11 am

On Sunday Aug 7th at 11 am the Munich Youth Choirs will be accompanying the
church service in Trinity United Church in Botwood.  Everyone is welcome to come
and hear the Munich Youth Choirs Church program. Come and enjoy the beautiful
songs of worship sung by the Munich Youth Choirs.

Concert in Botwood: Trinity United Church Aug 6th at 7pm

As each day passes, the excitement grows here with the Munich Youth Choirs coming soon to our beautiful land. On Saturday Aug 6th at 7pm, the Munich Youth Choirs will be singing in Trinity United Church in Botwood as a part of their Salt Water Joys Tour. To find out more about Trinity United Church you can go to the link below or to Trinity United Church Botwood in the links section of this blog.

http://www.trinityunited.net/

Trinity Concert: St.Pauls Anglican Church Aug 10th at 7pm

Wednesday Aug 10th 2011 is the date when the Munich Youth Choirs Saltwater Joys Tour will be coming to Trinity. The concert will be in St.Pauls Anglican Church at 7pm. St.Pauls Anglican Church is a registered historic structure. The Munich Youth Choirs are honoured to be performing there. For more information about Trinity,  St.Pauls Church, and other historical sites there please go to the links below.


http://www.townoftrinity.com/

http://trinityhistoricalsociety.com/

http://www.heritage.nf.ca/society/rhs/tz_listing/152.html

Concert in Bonavista at Memorial United Church Aug 9th at 7pm

Today I have been travelling around visiting some of the places where the Munich Youth Choirs Salt Water Joys Tour will be performing.

On Tuesday Aug 9th at 7pm there will be a concert in Bonavista
at Memorial United Church which is on Church Street.

Below is a link to Memorial United Church. Come and experience the Munich Youth Choirs in concert. You will be entertained, an enjoyable night out that you will not forget.

http://memorialunited.ca/

Cover Picture of Brochure

Hi Everyone

Just wanted to share with you the wonderful picture taken of Cape Spear Lighthouse by Judith Riehm which will be on the cover of the Munich Youth Choirs Salt Water Joys Tour of Newfoundland and Labrador Brochure. More details to come soon on this blog about the brochure and where you can get them.  

Munich Youth Choirs Performance in Kassel Germany on You Tube

Hi Everyone
During the Long Night of the Churches in May 2011 in Kassel, Germany; the Munich Youth Choirs were filmed during a performance and a rehearsal before it. This was a part of their tour of Northern Germany in May 2011. Hope that you enjoy it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKxKR-pFkVQ

Saltwater Joys - Willkommen zum Tourblog der Jungen Chöre München

Begleitet Junge Chöre München auf ihrer Tournee durch Neufundland und Labrador!

Als Reiseleiter dürfen wir hautnah dabei sein und werden hier regelmäßig über Auftritte, Begegnungen, Erlebnisse und Erkenntnisse während der Reise berichten.

Die letzten Vorbereitungen laufen auf Hochtouren - sowohl in München als auch auf Neufundland. Die Spannung steigt und die Vorfreude ist groß. Nur noch 10 Tage und es geht auf zu neuen Ufern!

Concert at Church of the Good Shepard Norris Point Aug 4th 2011 at 7pm

I am pleased to tell you on Aug 4th in Norris Point the Munich Youth Choirs will be singing as part of their Salt Water Joys Tour in the Church of the Good Shepard at 7pm. All are welcome to come and share in an evening of entertainment that you will not want to miss!

This Blog will also have postings in German

This blog will soon also have posts in the German language, so those people in Germany who are interested in the Munich Youth Choirs Salt Water Joys Tour of Newfoundland and Labrador will be able to read about it as well. Only 11 days to go before the tour starts. It will be more than a musical tour, it will be a cultural one as well. Our province has a lot to offer and I am looking forward to showing the choir as much as they can take in during their time here.

Munich Youth Choirs will be accompanying Sunday Mass at St. Stephens Church in Stephenville 11a.m. July 31st

Hi Everyone

Just wanted to let you know that the Munich Youth Choirs will be accompanying the Sunday Morning Mass at St.Stephens Church in Stephenville on July 31st at 11a.m.  The choir is looking forward to it and hopes to see you there.

Interview with the Munich Youth Choirs

What is it that makes a choral society so special? With that question in mind we recently had the opportunity to interview choristers of the Munich Youth Choirs. This is some of what we learnt:

What made you join this choir?
I always loved to sing and when I learnt about this choir I was hooked.

What does music and singing mean for you?
Music is a lot of fun, I cannot imagine living without it!

How often do you rehearse?
Rehearsal is twice a week for 2 1/2 hours. In addition we have vocal training or singing lessons once a week.

What happens if you sing out of tune?
You try to do better next time - and by the way, I do not sing out of tune.

Do you get nervous before a performance?
Not as much as I did when I first joined. Still a little bit, prior to a special concert or when singing a solo.

What is your favorite part about being in the choir?
Everything! The music, the companionship we enjoy, my friends, being able to travel and perform in places I'd otherwise not get to.

What kind of music to you listen to at home?
Anything and everything!

If you could achieve just one thing with the Munich Youth Choirs, what would that be?
Travel the world and share the joy of singing!

This is just one example showing the importance and drive the choristers attach to touring - it does involve a lot of time, effort, discipline and fun on their part. Touring provides an opportunity to grow musically and the ability to share and enjoy music with other communities around the globe is the biggest reward. Make a point to come and hear them sing, you will find that they are a lively, enthusiastic bunch with a true appreciation and love of music.

Getting ready for a Newfoundland adventure

It was about a year ago when the Munich Youth Choirs first started contemplating about touring The Rock.


Music is the true universal language, it opens hearts and minds. Touring provides opportunities to share the joy of music with a wider audience, strengthens the fellowship of the choir and builds international relationships. For the Munich Youth Choirs travel has always been an integral part of the choristers' education.

In twelve days 30 young, enthusiastic choristers will board a plane and head to Newfoundland. As one of the people being involved in organizing this tour I can honestly say that everyone is very much looking forward to coming!

To read more about the Munich Youth Choirs, what is happening on stage and behind the scenes, be sure to check in again.

Munich Youth Choirs Concert:Our Lady of Mercy Heritage Church Port au Port West July 31st 3p.m.

Hi Everyone

The Munich Youth Choirs is pleased to announce that they will be performing at Our Lady of Mercy Heritage Church in Port au Port West on Sunday July 31st at 3p.m.

Tickets: $15 in advance $18 at the door $8 for children under 12


Tickets are available at

Debbies Video, Main street, Stephenville
More for Less Food Stores on Harold Ave in Corner Brook
or by calling Dan McCann at 648-2745

For more information about Our Lady of Mercy Heritage Church go to the link below
http://www.heritage.nf.ca/society/rhs/lq_listing/090.html

Welcome to the Munich Youth Choirs Blog

Hi Everyone!

This is the beginning of a journey for a choir from Munich, Germany called the Munich Youth Choirs, who will be coming to Newfoundland and Labrador to do a concert tour in July and August of this year. Over the coming days ahead you will be given details about where and when the tour will be coming near you. A lot has been planned and the choirs have been preparing since September for this tour. They will be singing a wide range of music in at least four languages: English, French, German, Japenese. You will be hearing stirring songs from Musicals, Classical , Religious, Traditional Newfoundland and a few surprises. Come and be entertained. It will be a fabulous nights entertainment, that you will not forget.