French boys to sing at St.?Agnes
Traveling choir to perform free concert July 22
POSTED: July 4, 2009
MINGO JUNCTION – Maitrise des Hauts de France, a French boys’ choir, has been traveling throughout Europe and the United States since its inception in 1972 and will continue its current United States’ tour with a performance at St. Agnes Church, July 22. The group consists of approximately two dozen boys from schools, colleges and universities throughout and around Lambersart, Lille, France, who are between the ages of 8 and 17. Some of the notable performances by the French boys’ choir include a 1977 performance at the White House and four performances for the late Pope John Paul II at St. Peter Basilica, Rome. The group sings at festivals and events throughout Europe and has been traveling to the United States since 1990. Other commitments include frequent CD recordings and appearances on live television and radio broadcasts. The choir’s repertoire of musical selections ranges from classical and contemporary sacred music to folk songs and other musical selections from France and other countries. Although most of the boys do not speak English, they share the universal language of music with each performance. The Rev. James M. Dunfee, pastor of St. Agnes Parish, Mingo Junction, said that he was contacted by a representative of Maitrise des Hauts de France who was looking for places for the choir to perform. Dunfee said he was very interested and thought it was a great opportunity. The members of the choir will be staying with families in the Mingo Junction community. “I thought this performance could be very nice for Mingo,” said Dunfee. Dunfee also said that everyone is welcome to attend the event, which will be at 7 p.m. July 22. There is no charge for the performance; however, a collection will be taken, which helps with the traveling expenses for the choir members and teachers. There will also be CDs for sale. St. Agnes Church is located at 204 St. Clair Ave. For information on the choir, or to hear excerpts from one of their CDs, visit www.frenchboyschoir.com.
