POLY SONS , CHEEKY RASCALS INDEED

In recognition of the 30th anniversary of being sister cities, La Crosse received a special treat as Espinal, France's chorale, Poly Sons, joined the La Crosse Chorale performing in Black River Falls, Winona and in La Crosse. It was the latter where Natureman and I spent his birthday Sunday afternoon. A bonne anniversaire indeed!

La Crosse Chorale's conductor, Paul Rusterholtz, planned an entertaining program in collaboration with Poly Sons's conductor, Damien Guedon. 

The La Crosse Chorale opened with Rejouissez-vous, bourgeoises and Mon Coeur se recommande a vous...

The La Crosse Chorale

Then, The 5th Chamber added Canite Tuba, He Gave Her Water, Hallelujah from Shrek and a fun Under the Boardwalk interspersed with a bit of humor and logistical changes. 

The Fifth Chamber

Poly Sons (translates both 'multiple sounds' / cheeky rascal) animatedly shared songs from their varied past repertoire and a couple songs for this upcoming year.  Plans are for the La Crosse Chorale to join them in Espinal for a true exchange next summer. 

From Espinal's Renaissance program we heard: La, la, la , je ne lose dire , Et le monde et la mort. Impressionist music: Romance du soir,  Dieu, Qu'il a fait bon regarder, Les fleurs et les arbres. New genre of theatrical & musical aperitif : Syracruse, Chanson d' amour, And So It Goes, Goodbye Love and La Mer. And to be included in their upcoming American 2016 program in France: Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, What a Wonderful World and It Don't Mean a Thing.

Poly Sons from Sister City Espinal, France

Both chorales shared the stage for Angel Band and a surprise gift composition of Claire du Lune by one of Poly Sons's members.

As I have always stated we are indeed fortunate to be able to have such wonderful music in the Coulee region. Merci beaucoup to both chorales for sharing their talent and the Chorale committee who helped make this all possible. With ample donations we trust the La Crosse Chorale will be able to complete the musical cultural exchange and travel to France! 

*Apologies for omission of accent marks. Someone (namely me)  forgot how to add them.