Privilege to sing at the Menin Gate

VoxSonix, a local community choir based in Newbury and Tadley, recently took a trip to perform at the Belgium Christmas markets and Menin Gate.

Their ethos is to give back to the community – be that through fundraising or supporting local events – as well as building a community of it’s own by bringing together people with the common interest of singing into a supportive environment where new friends for life were made.

This December VoxSonix went to spread its community support overseas for the first time to visit the Christmas markets in Belgium. The main focus of the tour was to perform popular Christmas classics at local festive events which they did in Ypres and another local town, Diksmuide.

Singers made new bonds with their fellow singers over a Gluhwein, hot chocolate, or the free marshmallow toasting on offer, as well as chatting with the local residents attending the events.

“By far the highlight of the trip,” said choir member Kat Penn, “was a performance at the Menin Gate.

“Every night in Ypres they hold a Last Post Ceremony to commemorate the fallen soliders of World War I.

“We were invited to perform a piece as part of this poignant ceremony and sang Bring Him Home from the musical Les Mis after the minute’s silence before the final Revielle by the buglers.”

“What a privilege to be front and centre of this daily ceremony of remembrance,” said singer Viv.

“It was incredibly moving and something I’ll never forget.”

The choir said it was a truly memorable weekend for all and it was a privilege to represent their local communities on international soil.

“We can’t wait to see where our adventures take us next and if would like to become involved just visit our website at www.voxsonix.co.uk to book a free trial.”