The Coimbatore Chamber Chorale (CCC) was established under the baton of artistic director and conductor Faith Ragland in 2011. Under the eminent leadership of Faith, this dedicated 50-voice choir has relentlessly pursued excellence in the artistry of Western classical music. The ensemble’s repertory extends from early Baroque to modern Contemporary. CCC is highly disciplined and has adhered to core principles of consistent hard work and commitment. The conductor has shaped and influenced the choir which is hallmarked by its tonal richness and balance. Through regular rehearsals, choristers are taught to sing with precise articulation and well controlled dynamics. Within a year of inception, CCC cleared the silver choral assessment from Trinity College London (TCL).
CCC has developed the essential skill of collaborating with other performing choirs. In March 2013, CCC and Vienna University Choir presented Missa Brevis KV140 by WA Mozart. The strong 140 voice chorus was led by maestro Vijay Upadhyaya and accompanied by Indian National Youth Orchestra (INYO). The concert exposed the audience to a wider spectrum of music.
In 2015, CCC collaborated with Madras Musical Association (MMA) and presented the famed 3 act oratorio Judas Maccabaeus by G F Handel. The resulting performance was compelling to say the least.
The group was also privileged to share stage with the prestigious Handel Manual Chorus at Ida Scudder auditorium in Jan 2017. The concert featured Mozart’s stately Coronation mass in C major. Later that year, CCC went on to perform the Biblical oratorio Elijah by Felix Mendelssohn. With guest soloists and accompanists, the choir’s interpretation of Elijah was powerful and nuanced.
Under the inspired direction and vision of conductor Faith Ragland, CCC scaled new heights. In August 2019, the choir performed Handel’s Messiah. With a stellar line up of soloists and a 30 piece orchestra, the choir’s presentation of Handel’s iconic oratorio received a standing ovation.
These concerts had punctuated different stages of the choir’s growth over the last decade and has offered opportunities for youngsters to cultivate their interest and appreciation for music.
CCC’s performance at some prestigious venues
- Verdi’s requiem in Vienna – 2016
- Handel’s Messiah in Kuwait – 2018
- Dixit Dominus in Dubai Opera house – 2020
- FOF at TATA theatre – NCPA Mumbai – 2021
Unchartered Covid 19 – Virtual experience of Singing together yet apart
The Covid 19 pandemic had CCC venture into a series of digital projects. During the open-ended period of lockdown, choristers remained connected over online practices and virtual performances.
CCC was a part of the benefit concert by DanRam on International nurses’ day in May 2020. The virtual concert was dedicated to all nurses and health care workers around the world for a noble cause. In this concert, CCC presented the transcending hymn Whispering Hope by Alice Hawthorne. In the face of isolation and adversity, this hymn was of immense comfort for many.
As a part of MMA’s virtual recitals, CCC presented Felix Mendelssohn’s As the Hart pants and O for the wings of a dove. CCC wrapped up 2020 with a virtual presentation of Christmas blessings.
Let’s Sing Messiah
In January 2023, CCC will embark on a first of its kind National level convention “Lets Sing Messiah” where participants will get to learn and perform Handel’s iconic masterpiece Messiah. (Messiah has been one of the most famous and widely shared pieces of music in history). Singers who have always desired to sing Handel’s famed Hallelujah chorus are most welcome.
Let’s Sing Messiah will be the perfect setting to propel aspiring choristers to new heights and experiences. Beyond artistic goals, this two-day convention primarily aims to create an avenue to bring in choral enthusiasts together and make music. From seasoned singers to beginners, Let’s Sing Messiah is open to all. Join in and be a part of this magnificent composition along with 300-voices and a professional orchestra to tell the epic story of Messiah.
For more details and registration for ‘Let’s Sing Messiah,’ please visit the website www.coimbatorechamberchorale.com.
