During the Geneva music festival, CIG children’s choir dedicated its first official performance to the EMS Résidence de Saconnay, Geneva. The choir performed a number of Chinese songs, which won warm praise from the audience. Special thanks go to our professional conductor Mr. Yuan Zhao (professor of China Central Conservatory of Music, concertmaster of China National Symphony Orchestra) and our professional piano accompanist Mr. Yingbao Xu (Graduate in piano performance from Haute école de musique Genève – Neuchâtel), who came over from the canton of Vaud for this performance. The dean of the elderly home particularly picked up a Chinese dress to welcome the choir, and prepared nice gifts for the children. One old Russian lady from the elderly home was born in Harbin, China, and stayed there until 13 years old. Her special love to China reflected with delights and smiles on her face when she heard those familiar Chinese songs. Another old lady from the elderly home, who can hardly speaks clearly, held the hands of Mrs. Jun Chu (Director of CIG) and repeated thanks together with a kiss, while her eyes glistened with tears. Each member of the choir had an excellent performance. It is particularly worth mentioning about the first member of the choir, a non-Chinese boy Leo. He started to learn Chinese from a young age and especially likes Chinese songs. He used to perform in the Boston children’s choir and never missed a rehearsal. This charity event is a precious opportunity to encourage kindness and love to the elderly. We are grateful to the parents for their kind support. CIG will make persistent efforts to contribute to the society.
