Chorale de Kigali has announced the date for its annual Christmas carols concert as the festive mood kicks in early. The choir, which has a home at St Michel Cathedral has sent December 22, as the date for the concert which will be held at Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village.

The choir, which regularly performs at St Michel Cathedral, will stage the concert in the Akagera tent hall. Chorale de Kigali is famous for its fascinating opera-style vocals that make them standout and a spectacle for many, especially devout Roman Catholic Church members.

The choir is made up of over 120 members, 60% of which are young people. The concert was organized to celebrate, with the audience, the choir’s 52nd anniversary since its inception in 1967. It was founded by 20 music graduates of Catholic Seminaries.

According to Dr Jean-Claude Byiringiro, the choir leader and elder, the concert is an annual thanksgiving event during which they celebrate what God has done for them and for the country in general. 

"We stage this concert annually to thank God for the miracles he does in his people and ensuring that we complete another year of self-development and for the nation. We celebrate achievements and also dedicate the future to God,” Byiringiro told The New Times in a telephone interview.

Chorale de Kigali members are known for a number of worship songs which are mainly performed at church services. Their concerts are attended by many including top government officials.

It has also established itself as an undisputed music choir in the Catholic Church, and their uniqueness has given them an honour to perform at big concerts and participate in different religious festivals as well as composing lyrics for different musical bodies.

Doors shall be open from 6pm, with entrance fees ranging from Rwf5, 000 for regulars, Rwf10,000 for VIPs and 15,000frw for VVIPs.

Tickets started selling on November 15 at the choir’s office at Centre Saint Paul in Muhima sector.

editor@newtimesrwanda.com