The Little Sopranos, an adorable bunch of kids who warmed to music early are adding to the Christmas cheer as they sing seasonal hits from a variety of genres. In their 5th year now, the school directed by Sonali De Soysa will mark their 6th Christmas concert with “Christmas ………….. 2013”   

The school has four groups, baby sopranos, Junior A & B and Senior Sopranos. Babes of 2 years up to 14 year old are about to serenade audiences at the concert scheduled to take place on the 18th of December at 6 p.m. at the Ladies’ College Hall. An interesting line up of cherished Christmas songs are waiting in the wings to enthral the audience and aren’t second to the other classical, pop, jazz and rocknroll items to be performed.

Something I find special about the school is that as much as they make efforts to ensure the performance is well executed, the directors strive to make the process enjoyable and dynamic to the kids. In essence, Sonali gets the audience to enjoy when they mirror the kids’ enjoyment. 

She stressed, “We like to do a variety of songs classical, pop, jazz, rock and roll and have different arrangements to suit the children and use a lot of rhythmic movement and choreography to make it very enjoyable and fun for them.

We are particular that as many children as possible are given the opportunity to perform the songs and it’s great to see them encourage and support each other. They are exposed to different genres of music and it widens their appreciation for all types of songs.

They enjoy themselves and the singing. This is one place where the kids truly let themselves go.” She also relates how most parents bring their children to the school claiming they’re too shy, but in the course of all the singing, activity and fun, it’s rewarding to see the children finally letting go.

Karen Pereira is the conductor, who brings to life the performance on stage, while both of them have done a commendable job with the choreography. Sonali believes the movement together with the singing brings out the confidence and allows them to put it all out there without any inhibitions. Built on a unique concept, Little Sopranos is indeed ‘a modern type of singing school.’  
 

The group is also planning on branching out next year as they will cater to a slightly elder age group via ‘Young Sopranos.’ Sonali reflects, “My assistant Karen Pereira and I find it very fulfilling and absolutely enjoyable, Karen conducts the choir and I accompany the children on piano. Voice training and choreography is taught throughout on different levels, depending on age. We love the work we do as it involves bringing out the potential in each child who is appreciative of the wonderful benefits of music.”

Unfortunately, tickets for the show are already sold out, but if you are to be present at the show, expect the regular Little Sopranos treat!

By Nivedha Jeyaseelan