More than 50 choir singers from the Isle of Man appeared at the prestigious Carnegie Hall, in New York last weekend, to sing the premier of a new piece of music by a world-renowned composer.

Members of the Isle of Man Choral Society, along with choir leader Julian Powers, were invited to join the chorus of 250 singers to perform ’Sing! The Music was Given’, an original piece of music, conducted by Dr Jonathan Griffith and written by the acclaimed Welsh composer Sir Karl Jenkins, for the 10th anniversary of the Distinguished Concerts International New York group.

The group spent two days in rehearsals with the conductor and composer before stepping out on to the famous stage on Monday, January 15.

’It was an amazing performance and it was amazing to be part of such a set up,’ said Julian.

’Performing the piece of work with Sir Karl Jenkins was also a fabulous occasion, and to play with an orchestra of that size and quality was thrilling, both for myself and for the choir.’

The Manx choristers were joined by members from six other choirs for the concert, which was streamed live on the internet.

’Working with Dr Jonathan Griffith was a great experience,’ said Julian.

’He is a tremendous musician, and it was fascinating to watch the process of how the piece came together.’

He said that the rehearsals were an arduous affair, with the choir members on their feet for four hours each day, followed a two-hour rehearsal on the day of the concert.

’Sir Karl was in the audience, and would defer to him to see if a particular piece of music was as how he would like it. It was a great collaborative effort,’ said Julian.

’We sang for an hour and a half, along with members of six other choirs, after which we were treated to a party.

’I was told by the organisers that the Isle of Members were one of the best prepared groups there,’ he said.

Julian also said that the experience of performing at the famous old theatre would leave a lasting impression on the Manx singers.

’Carnegie Hall wasn’t entirely sold out, but it was near enough full,’ he said.

’But it was a wonderful experience, and it is one that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.’

by Mike Wade

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