St Mary’s Singers Choir Shines in Europe
The SMS Choir recently returned from a remarkable tour of Spain and France, where they not only showcased their musical talents but also claimed first place at the Music del Mar competition in Lloret de Mar, Spain. Their journey continued through the scenic villages of Provence, France, where they performed in historic venues as part of the International Choir Festival in Provence 2025.
The tour began on 22 June with a late-night arrival in Barcelona, followed by a transfer to Lloret de Mar, a coastal town known for its vibrant arts scene. The choir settled into the Astoria Hotel and met with event organizers, setting the tone for an exciting week.
Highlights in Spain included:
A guided day trip to Barcelona, exploring Gaud۪̉s masterpieces.
A visit to Girona, followed by a Flamenco show.
A spiritual excursion to Montserrat Monastery.
The Music del Mar competition on June 26, where the choir’s powerful performance earned them top honours in the vocal group category. The award ceremony in Tossa de Mar was a proud moment for the entire team where they won the Grand Prix prize.
On June 28, the choir crossed into France, arriving in Toulon and settling into the Holiday Inn. Led by tour guide Christine, the group enjoyed a relaxed evening before diving into the festival performances. Over the next few days, the choir performed in three picturesque villages:
Concert 1 – Collobrières (June 29): After a scenic visit to Saint-Tropez, the choir travelled to Collobrières, where they performed at Church ND des Victoires alongside the local choir Ensemble Vocal Cantare. The warm acoustics and intimate setting made for a memorable evening.
Concert 2 – Vins-sur-Caramy (June 30): Following a morning cruise through the Calanques de Cassis, the choir headed to Caramy’s Castle Forecourt for a joint concert with Les Voix du Caramy. The open-air venue and enthusiastic audience created a magical atmosphere.
Concert 3 – Chateaudouble (July 1): The final concert took place in the Green Theatre; an outdoor amphitheatre nestled in the hills of Chateaudouble. The choir delivered a stirring performance, closing the festival with grace and passion.
The tour was more than a musical showcase—it was a journey of growth, friendship, and cultural exchange. Students navigated new languages, explored historic towns, and built lasting connections with fellow performers and local communities.
With the Music del Mar trophy in hand and hearts full of memories, the SMS Choir returned home inspired and united. Their performances in Spain and France not only demonstrated musical excellence but also highlighted the power of collaboration and cultural celebration.
