What would Christmas be without its choirs? Ivory Coast also celebrates this tradition, although the country is only a third Christian. Today, we take you to discover the interfaith choir Chœur à Cœur, based in the Ivoire Trade Center in Cocody, in Abidjan.
The originality of this choir lies in its desire to offer a Christmas show for parents and children of all origins. Under the direction of Manolli Ekra, the concert brings together 70 choristers, including 30 children and 30 adults, as well as several soloists and an orchestra.
Chœur à Cœur’s repertoire ranges from English songs and gospel to classics performed with tom-toms as part of musical tales. This combination of genres and musical styles appealed to Nahikey Zadi, one of the group’s soprano soloists. Coming from the soul and R’n’B scene, she particularly appreciates the diversity of this choir which brings together amateurs, professionals, children, pianists, kora players, and offers a true Ivorian cultural immersion.
To ensure that all Ivorians are reached, the organizers have chosen an inclusive program, mixing traditional Christian songs and Muslim songs in Arabic. This open-mindedness and desire to bring together attracted spectators from different faiths, such as Khadidja Niang, a mother of two Muslim children who sees in this initiative an opportunity to evolve towards a more tolerant and open society. other.
This audacious bet was crowned with success, with nearly 700 spectators present for this performance of Chœur à Cœur. For nearly two hours, they were transported by the harmonious voices of the choristers and were able to appreciate the cultural richness and religious diversity of Côte d’Ivoire.
What would Christmas be without its choirs? In Abidjan, the Chœur à Cœur choir reminds us that the magic of music and diversity can transcend religious boundaries and unite people around universal values such as peace, tolerance and festive joy. Christmas in Ivory Coast takes on a unique and special dimension thanks to this interfaith choir which celebrates the spirit of Christmas in all its splendor.