The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Chorus Angelicus preparing for fall
TORRINGTON — “Angels in Training,” or singers between the ages of 5 and 8 are invited to enroll in Chorus Angelicus’ preliminary singing program.
Joyful Noise, Inc. with the choirs of Chorus Angelicus and Gaudeamus, was founded in 1991 by Paul Halley. Artistic director Dr. Gabriel Löfvall; Andrew Skinner, Junior Choir Director; and Karen Sovak, longtime Angels in Training Choir Director, are the caretakers of the Chorus Angelicus sound, according to a statement.
“Those who have attended a Chorus Angelicus performance can see and hear the value and importance of Chorus Angelicus’ pursuit in the artistic integrity and the beauty and clarity of the sound produced,” members said in a statement. “During performance there is clearly displayed a firstclass education in choral music and obvious camaraderie of the choristers. They learn to respect and consider each other, learn enthusiasm for choral music and learn responsibility, self-confidence and a dedication to work ethic - all the while, doing what they love, singing. All the attributes of the training aid them in opportunities in musical as well as social growth for a successful, happy, fulfilled, and productive life.”
The youngest choristers "The Angels in Training", are eligible to enroll in Chorus Angelicus between the ages of 5 and 8. When they demonstrate the necessary music and social readiness skills, they are promoted to the “Advanced Angels", ages 8-11, according to the statement. There are two more choirs within Chorus Angelicus, the Junior and Senior Choir. Level of competency, sound and projection are different as the child and voice mature. The older singers exhibit skilled musicality and provide sophisticated nuances; clearly demonstrated in the many performances, including the locally famous Christmas Angelicus series, and other outstanding concerts and tours,” members said.
“Some Angels in Training members don't even read words, let alone music, and must learn to follow written music, how to match pitches and produce a lovely sound through proper vocal production, and know about dynamics, and articulation,” according to the statement. In addition, they sing accurately in many different languages. They learn to use proper singing posture and how to focus and watch the director and how to read notes and musical symbols.”
“Sovak and the Angels in Training got their feet wet with a new virtual approach to learning this spring due to the Covid-19 Pandemic,” according to the statement. “Karen is fully prepared for the possibility of virtual training in September, with a new methodology for on-line learning which will keep students engaged and productive throughout the 2020-21 season. Enroll online at www.chorusangelicus.com/join.”
For information, call Bethany Lee at 860-309-9990, or email bethany@chorusangelicus.com.