At the end of 2023, I enjoyed watching the Kurashiki Boys and Girls Choir "Christmas Concert" with my child, so this time we attended the "New Year Concert."
I did not know that there had been a choir in my hometown Kurashiki for half a century, and I never imagined I could experience such a moving stage performance (especially for free), so I seized the opportunity to go.
Overview of the "Kurashiki Boys and Girls Choir New Year Concert"
The "Kurashiki Boys and Girls Choir" was established in 1972 and holds a concert every year around Christmas, but in 2024, a special New Year Concert was also held.
The main performances were as follows:
- My Neighbor Totoro
- From The Sound of Music: "Edelweiss," "Do-Re-Mi"
- The Phantom of the Opera, etc.
Participation in the Concert
The concert was held at the "Mabi Fureai Center Bamboo Hall" located in Mabi-cho, Kurashiki City.
It seems that the concert is usually held twice a year, in December and during Golden Week, but this time it was held as a "Idea (Citizen Planning Public Offering Project)" adopted project by the Mabi Fureai Center.
Solo Performances
This was a solo performance by three award-winning participants from a children's music competition.
The tension and beautiful singing voices made me sit up straight while listening. It is delightful to experience songs that make you want to listen carefully and cherish them in the venue.
The audience was dark, and the spotlight was on the stage; I think performing solo in front of a large audience tests one's courage, but I was moved by the calm and composed demeanor of the young girls.
Musical Series
Following the "Christmas Concert," the musical series was also presented this time.
I love musicals, so I was moved to see Ariel and the Phantom again. Great works are good no matter how many times you watch them; in fact, you want to see them repeatedly.
For a moment, I forgot that I was a boy or girl. In my heart, I also shouted, "Christine...!!"
All Japan Choral Competition National First Place Awarded Song
The Kurashiki Boys and Girls Choir won the Grand Prize at the "76th All Japan Choral Competition University and Workplace General Division" held in November 2023, becoming the best in Japan for the first time in 50 years for Okayama Prefecture.
The awarded song from that time was performed.
Achieving harmony with a large number of singers is incredibly challenging.
When I think about the effort it takes to perform multiple layers of harmony flawlessly on stage, I found myself in tears, reflecting on the daily training of the boys and girls.
How much time and passion does it take to create such moving art?
Conclusion
This was my second time attending, and I enjoyed it very much.
If there is another opportunity, I would definitely like to attend again. I heard that on April 28, 2024 (Sunday), there will be a regular concert at the Kurashiki Civic Hall's main hall.
It seems that the regular concert will not be a single act from a musical but a full performance, which is exciting. In 2024, they will present "The Sound of Music," and I can only expect great things.
I even think that I, as a parent, am more into it than my daughter, but for those interested in choral music, please consider attending with your family and friends.
Data of the Kurashiki Boys and Girls Choir New Year Concert
| Name | Kurashiki Boys and Girls Choir New Year Concert |
|---|---|
| Date | January 20, 2024 (Sunday) 1:30 PM start 3:00 PM end |
| Location | Mabi Fureai Center Bamboo Hall |
| Participation Fee (including tax) | Free admission |
| Homepage | Kurashiki Boys and Girls Choir |
