Christmas Concert by the Pro Arte Choir in Evolène

December 27, 2024, at 7:00 PM

At the concert on December 27, we are pleased to present some Christmas songs from our repertoire. These include pieces from both near and far. You will likely recognize some of them, and we will be delighted if you join us. A flyer with the lyrics of the most popular songs will be provided to make it easier for you to follow along. We wish you an enjoyable listening experience and a pleasant moment of sharing.

Introduction of the Pro Arte Choir

The Pro Arte Choir brings together singers from central Valais who love choral music in all its forms: a cappella, with orchestra, or piano, depending on the chosen repertoire.

Oscar Lagger founded the choir in 1971 and led it for over twenty years. Norbert Carlen succeeded him in 1997 after a brief transition with Nicolas Waldvogel. Since 2019, the choir has been directed by Marie-Marthe Claivaz.

Consistency in effort and the joy of singing are the secrets to its longevity and varied engagements. This dedication has enabled ambitious projects such as Brahms' "German Requiem," the Requiems of Mozart, Duruflé, Verdi, Gossec, and Dvořák, the passions of Bach and Telemann, as well as several masses, oratorios, and stage works by composers from various eras.

The Pro Arte Choir of Sion has joined forces with other choral and instrumental ensembles on numerous occasions, including the Choir of the French Chapel in Barcelona, the Konzertgesellschaft Oberwallis (directed by Norbert Carlen), La Villanelle from Evian, the Orchestra of Saint-Maurice, and more recently, the Cantamabile Vocal Ensemble from Sion (directed by Marie-Marthe Claivaz).

The choir has participated in various international festivals and competitions, including those in Dole (France), Olomouc (Czech Republic), and Verona (Italy).