Everyone enjoyed a really nice loooong night’s sleep!  Camerata gathered after breakfast for a brief warm-up and rehearsal, prior to their competition this afternoon.  All of Arioso was in attendance for the Youth Choir Competition to cheer on Camerata.  Only 5 choirs competed in this division, and we’d already heard from one of the groups, a choir from the Philippines who were fantastic the night before.

Unfortunately, we had to leave the Pavilion as soon as Camerata finished their performance and were unable to stay for the results.  This information would have to wait!  We left Llangollen and headed to a neighboring town to perform for a nursing facility that cared for the disabled.  You would have been proud as our young people not only sang beautifully and had fun doing it, but then to see them interact with the residents was truly a blessing!

When we returned to the Festival Grounds, we were met by Anna Stueckle who had been present to hear the final results of the Youth Choir Competition announced.  Public comments are made from the stage for each choir before the marks are read.  The adjudicator indicated that Camerata had a “warm, rich sound” and “heartfelt singing” with “good balance” and a “good, consistent sound”.  They had chosen two contrasting pieces (a requirement for the competition that not all choirs followed) and they especially liked the piece “The Conversion of Saul” for it’s “impressive, rhythmical drive” and “captivating atmosphere.”  The marks were read:  Czeck Choir 156, Philippine Choir 180, English choir 168, California choir 171 and SCC 177 – Camerata had taken 2nd place and received 350 British Pounds as their prize!  There will be celebrating tonight!