Freedoms
Bob Chilcott
A brand new commission of songs for youth choir in our 80th Liberation year
In the spirit of our 80th Liberation year celebrations, we are proud to present the world premiere of a specially commissioned set of songs called Freedoms, written by internationally acclaimed composer, Bob Chilcott. The set is composed for young voices of Guernsey, and with two hundred children from schools across the island joining together to learn and perform the songs under Bob’s own direction, it’s going to be a brilliant experience for all. The texts by Charles Bennett explore themes of resilience, courage, and hope, timeless values that are as relevant not in todays politcial climate as 80 years ago.​
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The workshop afternoon will take place at PCRPA and there will be a short presentation performance at 16:15 for friends to come and watch.
Festival Director, Joseph Edwards, asks the composer some quick-fire questions the abour his new commission, Freedoms.
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What is Freedoms about?
They’re images of what it is to feel connected with others and to experience the joys of where you live, the people around you, and that you have the possibility to live the life you want to live together.
How do you compose for children's voices?
I like to construct melodies that I would like to sing myself, and keeping the music fun is really important to me. I like to make music that works in the voice, whether it’s for adult choirs or kids, so much of my approach is generally the same.
If the children remember one feeling when they sing Freedoms, what would you like to be?
That they feel together; that it made them feel, as a body of people, that they were saying all something and felt good about it.
How do you encourage children to sing with confidence?
I know it’s a cliche, but to enjoy it! Give them the opportunity to internalise something that might mean something to them.
What do you hope the legacy will be for our community?
I hope it will help express what it means to be a free island nation, but these poems and pieces have some real relevance in the broader political picture too.
Would you like to come back to Guernsey for future projects?
I certainly would! What you’re doing is great, and clearly music education in kids is really important to you and I would love to show my support.
What advice would you give to the island’s young composers?
If you’re writing music for singers, remember to connect with what it means to sing together and the importance of making music with other people. Be bold!
What freedom means the most to you, personally?
From a personal view, to be able to express myself.