Celebrate 50 Open Rehearsal

On November 10, 2024, the NeoVoce Philharmonic Choir, in partnership with the Art Gallery of Mississauga, hosted the "Celebrate 50" Open Rehearsal at the Mississauga Civic Centre. Despite inclement weather, nearly 100 attendees participated in the event.

The program commenced with an opening address and land acknowledgment by Anna Gulbinski, Executive Director of the Art Gallery of Mississauga. Subsequently, Pamela Li, President of the NeoVoce Philharmonic Choir, and Jason Peng, Vice President, led the audience in singing the Canadian national anthem, "O, Canada."

Distinguished guest Mikey Bloom, winner of the Mississauga 50th Anthem Anniversary Contest and an emerging rapper, performed his original works among the audience and introduced the two organizations.

Artistic Director and conductor Leo Li then guided the choir through rehearsals of four pieces:

• "Moni Mountain"

• "Daylily Flower"

• "Song of the Yue People"

• "Gloria #1"

He provided detailed explanations and background information for each composition.

At the conclusion of the rehearsal, vocal coach Huang Yan performed a piece from her upcoming solo concert, "Calming Storms and Waves: No Listening to Rustling Leaves Across the Grove," which received enthusiastic applause.

Following the rehearsal, choir members and attendees moved to the nearby Mississauga Art Gallery for refreshments and engaging interactions, concluding the event on a high note.

Event Highlights:

• Leadership and Anthem: Pamela Li and Jason Peng led the audience in singing the Canadian national anthem.

• Rehearsal and Explanation: Conductor Leo Li guided the choir through four pieces, providing detailed explanations and background information.

• Solo Performance: Vocal coach Huang Yan performed a solo piece, which was well received by the audience.

• Audience Turnout: Nearly 100 people attended despite the poor weather.

• Post-Rehearsal Interaction: The choir and audience moved to the Mississauga Art Gallery for snacks, drinks, and engaging interactions, ending the event on a high note.

In summary, the open rehearsal offered attendees an opportunity to appreciate choral music while commemorating the 50th anniversary of the City of Mississauga. Attendees observed the choir's rehearsal process, gaining a deeper understanding of choral artistry. Additionally, the adjacent art gallery was accessible, allowing visitors to explore its current exhibitions and collections.