jura Elders Find Their Voice in new Inter-EMS Choir, Concert Set for September 23
Delémont, Jura – A new choir comprised of residents from across the Jura’s EMS (establishments for the elderly) has formed, offering a unique possibility for connection and creative expression. The initiative, spearheaded by the Jur’anciens association, currently includes approximately 120 residents and their caregivers.
The choir prepared by initially rehearsing a selection of a dozen songs within their individual institutions before coming together for joint practices. According to Audrey Kohler, president of Jur’anciens, the project’s core aim is to “highlight the residents and get them out of the EMS walls.” She emphasized the inclusive nature of singing, stating, “Singing is something that all our elders can do, whether they have physical or even psychic problems.”
Participants are enthusiastic about the choir’s impact. “I love singing! When I was young, I sang a lot,” shared Solange, a choir member. Rosemonde added, “What I like is to meet all together and find people that we had never seen again. It’s splendid! For christmas, it’s a little outing!”
Etienne Ory, the choir director and a music teacher, believes the age of the singers is irrelevant. “The vital thing is to try to transmit the pleasure of making music, of singing,” he said, with piano accompaniment provided by Michel Siegenthaler.
The choir will present a one-hour concert on Tuesday, September 23rd, at 4 p.m.at the Jura Theatre in Delémont. Admission is free.
