A Half-Century of Choral
Music
in the Ancient Capital of Kamakura
The
Gloria Boys Choir was founded by Keitaro Yoshii, the current
Honorary President, in Kamakura in 1959. The inspiration came
to him from Fr. Armand Demontigny of the Redemptorists who
wondered why Japanese boys did not sing. Since its founding,
the choir has followed the traditions of European liturgical music
and continued to deepen its mastery and understanding of sacred
music.
It is the only choir of its kind existing in Japan. Today the choir
consists of more than 100 choristers between the ages of four and
eighteen and coming from differnt schools. They perform as boy
sopranos and may continue with the choir after voice change to
sing tenor or bass parts. After a half-century of history, there are
now fathers and sons who have both been choristers in this choir.
Grounded in the Catholic faith
The choirmasters are vocal music specialists who
provide high-
quality instruction based on the teachings and principles of the
Catholic Church. For choristers, a special music background
or adherence to the Catholic faith is not a requirement for
membership. Nevertheless, it is hoped that choristers come to
understand the principles of our instruction and the unbroken
tradition expressed in concerts as well as regular practice, mass,
entrance ceremonies, and camp activities.
Through concert performances, in conjuntion with professional
orchestras, the boys have extremely valuable experiences. They
teach the boys important lessons beyond their daily studies,
instilling a sense of responsibility and consideration for others,
good manners and social skills as well as to taking pride in a
good work ethic and the achievement that follows.
Concerts and Public Engagements
The annual subscription
concerts feature contemporary music
and musicals in an entertaining atmosphere and include small
children as performers. The church concerts of sacred music,
special concert hall engagements, and the year-end Messiah
concert are performed by choristers in the fourth grade and above.
The boys wear choir robes and perform with guest soloists and
orchestras. These engagements are widely publicized, well
attended, and have been highly acclaimed overseas.
1989 Special Concert for Pope John Paul II