Friday, August 19

By Alanna, Beth, Emily, Mike and Susan (the Choral Scholars)

LOS BLOGO:

Hola Mendoza!

Friday morning we arrived at the school of our hosts to be greeted by the many children who make up the Coro de Ninos and the students at this special school which teaches regular curriculum and a specialized music program. A converted train station, this school is a very special place in Mendoza as it was created by its Director, Juana Mauro as a place to foster and develop a solid music education programme for the children of Mendoza.

Rehearsal at Mendoza School






Our first rehearsal of the day began at nine as we prepared for the evening concert. During the rehearsal, twelve choristers along with Kellie and Mrs. Knight left to go to a park where a local television station filmed the group singing “Tell My Ma” as a promo for the evening concert.

At 11 am we took a short break and joined the children in their classrooms where we taught them new games and they shared their musical talents.

In the afternoon we sang for the children at the school and were treated to a few performances by them as well. The group was conducted by senior students within the school.

After returning to the hotel to rest for a few hours, we returned to the school for the concert. It was a long concert for us to sing but it went well and was well-received by the audience. Following the concert we were treated with the phenomenal Mendoza hospitality. The school prepared a traditional Argentinean barbecue for the choristers and the billeting families. The food was incredible and we were treated to music by a band formed by students of the school. It was a true fiesta.

Barbecue (world's largest) for fiesta at
Mendoza School















We all enjoyed this day of friendship, music and cultural sharing.

Un Beso!

Alanna Fitzpatrick
Beth Reckling
Emily Noble
Mike Fisher
Susan Bennett