The Calgary Girls Choir, known as Brava, is set to embark on an international tour to Spain, marking a significant milestone for the ensemble. This journey represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the young singers to showcase their talents abroad.
Tour Details and Performances
The choir consists of 29 students from grades 7 to 12. They will perform concerts in Barcelona and other cities in the Valencia region from June 28 to July 7. A major highlight of the tour is their participation in the Edeta International Youth Music Festival in Lliria, a UNESCO city of music with a history dating back to the 2nd century BC.
Repertoire and Leadership
The tour program was curated by choir founder and artistic director Elaine Quilichini. It includes Caminante, a newly commissioned work by Edmonton composer Margaret King, written specifically for this tour. Additionally, the choir will perform a new arrangement of Jota de Lliria by Calgary musician Dean Marshall and Xavi Morató, as well as Canadian Folk Medley by Janet Stachow.
Return to International Touring
Brava previously toured internationally every other year, but the pandemic halted those plans. This tour is the choir's first international trip since the pandemic began. Quilichini expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "I love the idea of Brava being an artistic ambassador for Canadian choral music and composers."
Send-off Concert and Fundraising
Calgarians can experience the choir's talent before they depart at a send-off concert on May 30 at 7 p.m. at Christ Church Elbow Park. The choir has launched a GoFundMe campaign to ensure all members can participate. Tickets for the concert are $25 and can be purchased through Choir Genius. For more information about the concert or the choir, visit the official website.
