James Madison University Chorale Takes First Place at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod
On their first international tour, the James Madison University Chorale, directed by Dr. Patrick Walders, journeyed to the United Kingdom on a 12 day-5 concert tour, culminating in Wales for the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod. The choir visited and performed in London, Cambridge, Ely, Coventry, Swindon and Bath. In London, the Chorale performed a joint concert of the Duruflé "Requiem" with the University of London and Imperial College Chamber Choirs, both directed by Colin Durrant. The Chorale then proceeded onto Cambridge and Ely, where they performed at the Lady Chapel of Ely Cathedral. This was the most magnificent venue with a prime acoustic for singing which had the members of the Chorale in awe for the remainder of the trip. Following Ely, the choir moved on, performing at the contemporary Coventry Cathedral. Later that same day, the Chorale collaborated with the award-winning Wessex Male Choir, directed by Robert T. Elliot.
Following England, the Chorale crossed the border into Wales to compete in 6 categories at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod. Kicking off the choral part of the competition, the JMU Chorale dominated, taking 1st Place in the Youth Choir Competition. Following the win, the BBC radio and television did news segments on the choir which aired each night of the festival. The very next day, the Madison Singers of James Madison University took 3rd Place in the Chamber Choir Category.
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