French is one of the most romantic languages in the world — and a small group of women in Parksville Qualicum Beach are celebrating it in song.
Nous Chantons is a choir made up of 12 women who share a common love of the french language. They meet once a week and sing french songs together for the pure pleasure of it.
“It (french music) goes to your core,” Nous Chantons co ordinator Suzanne Bernard told The NEWS. “It goes to your soul. It touches you deeply.”
Bernard started the group in 2008.
“I was singing to my granddaughter one day and I realized I was losing it,” said explained.
So she put an advertisement in the newspaper and rallied together likeminded people who now meet every Wednesday at a different member’s home to sing French songs and celebrate French culture.
Nous Chantons is always looking for new members. Bernard said you don’t have to be a professional singer or have any special training, however, it is important that prospective members have an understanding of the french language.
“We’re open to those who are bilingual, francophones and francophiles,” she said.
The group has a repertoire of 500 songs including favourites such as: Chante-la ta chanson, La vie en rose and La Manic. Bernard stressed that the group is strictly “for pleasure” but said they do perform for schools and seniors homes.
Nous Chantons, which translates to We Are Singing, will meet next on Wednesday, Sept. 16 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. There is no membership fee. For more information or to become a member please contact Suzanne Bernard at 250-248-8714 or nouschantons@hotmail.com.