CMA-Praeses Henk Linstra can fill hours with beautiful stories, about how atmospheric it is at the choir, how well understood they sing, and that they are talked about in the region. “That’s how we attract members who come from otherwise.”
But the most special Linstra thinks the growth that the choir has experienced lately. “In Coronatijd, many men stopped, and members also died.” For example, the CMA even threatened to drop among one hundred members.
As a miracle, the choir suddenly grows considerably, while other choirs in the region shrink. “Last year we got sixteen new members, and now seven. That is quite unique. From other choirs I mainly hear shrinking stories and they seek rapprochement with each other. To have enough size. Because you want a nice choir, with good singing, then you have to have at least a hundred members who sing together.”
Linstra also praises the conductor. “He insists that we express the texts well, so clearly articulate, that’s very important. We are also known for it. And the atmosphere is good, the board is in order, the involvement is great. We are indeed a kind of family. A few widows, whose men once sang with us, who will soon go on our annual choir trip.
What is the most beautiful anniversary gift for the 60-year-old men’s choir, the chairman does not have to think long about that. “A nice, full room tomorrow night in the new Kolk, and people who sing along. We’re going for that.”
View the report below about the last rehearsal of the Christian Men’s Choir Assen