Plektrum- a choir filled with joy

"Plektrum" is a choir for youths in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. There are about 70 members between 13 and 25 years, in the choir. Two years ago there where about 25 members, so you could say that the choir has expanded. On the repertory there are psalms, pop, gospel, and, well almost every sort of genres you can sing in a choir. What’s joining them is that they all have a christian point in the lyrics.

There are three conductors leading the choir, and I got an interview with one of them; Johanna Gustavsson. When the present conductor had to quit, two years ago, Johanna and her best friend were asked to take over. Now they are three conductors, sharing the responsibility. ‘‘It’s easier that way’’ Johanna says, ’’Because then it’s alright if you sometimes can’t make it for rehearsal, and there isn’t such a big responsibility resting on your shoulders if you share it. There’s also two girls handling the paperwork, and another friend who is in charge for the musicians. So we are a great deal of people helping each other to make it work. It can be difficult sometimes when we have different opinions, but usually we get along very well, and since we’re quite young all of us, we need each other’s support.’’

Johanna tells me, that they have a great time together, and that’s the most important thing, even though it’s nice when the sound is good too. All of the people, both leaders and singers, have a great time together, and no one should be left aside. "Our hope is that if only one of Making plans for the tonights rehearsal. Johanna in the middle. the seventy members are missing, the rest of us would notice.’’ Johanna says. ‘’So, having fun together is one of the main reasons we’re doing this’’

Therefore, there’s no such thing as an entrance-test or something. The only thing that matters is if you like singing. It’s the same thing if you want so sing a solo. It’s not just the elite that counts, but also those who just like to perform and be in the spotlight. But perhaps the most important thing of all, is that "Plektrum" wants to show the audience, but also the members in the choir, with their joy and with the music and lyrics in the songs, that they believe there is a God, loving and supporting, worthy to sing a song for. The big happening coming up, is the concert "Plektrum" is going to give November 20. Then it’s time for the beautiful Lucia-songs when we in Sweden are celebrating St.Lucia-day. Perhaps another concert and then there’s Easter with a week in the mountains filled with singing and skiing. Perhaps you should join choir in your hometown. It could be a wonderful experience.