Musical unity: European Union Choir celebrates 60 years of song

The EU might have 28 countries and 24 official languages, but that doesn't stop this Brussels-based choir from making harmonious music together.

The European Union Choir has been reflecting the union's diversity since the enactment of the Treaty of Rome, making this 60th year a special time to celebrate through music.

"I am really happy to be here and to have joined this beautiful music ensemble that performs not only in Belgium, but in many European cities," says choir member Maxim Bedo. "We have a very nice repertoire because we have done many different creations, and we have a very dynamic musical programme with diverse singers."

Members of the European Union Choir sit on their wooden chairs, patterned in a U shape that is divided by different vocal sections in the spacious white chapel of the Royal Military Academy. Every Thursday evening, more than 80 members of different nationalities, languages and sounds use their unique voices to practise the music that has brought them together over the last six decades.

Marco Michelon, from Italy, joined the choir as a way to meet people from all over the world. "It is interesting to me to meet many new people and all of us sing the same thing, but in different voices,” he says. "So I come from Italy but the guy on my side can be Spanish or Maltese or from Northern Europe."

Diverse backgrounds

Members are not just from the EU - with Russia and some African nations also represented. They all come with a different background and story, which makes this choir all the more special.

Maria Monica Bojin is from Romania. She says being a member of the choir has made her proud to not only be from Romania, but to be an EU citizen. "I think it is a wonderful way to draw the attention to the unity of Europe by creating a choir with people from all over Europe," Bojin said.

The EU choir is hosting a concert on Friday 23 March to honour the last 60 years of both the EU and the choir itself. Musical director Dirk De Moor has been directing the choir for almost half of its life.

"Everyone is trying to make this tradition go further," Bedo adds. "I am quite sure we will celebrate 70, 90, 100, and who knows, maybe a 1,000-year anniversary."

For the special 60th anniversary celebration, the EU choir will be presenting pieces from Rossini, with just two pianos, an accordion and the strong voices of its members. The concert will be held at the Brussels Conservatory.

The choir will also have more concerts throughout the year, including a performance of Beethoven's 9th on 9 September, a 60th-anniversary gala performance at Bozar on 2 December and their traditional Christmas concert on 15 December.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the EU choir, you are invited to attend one of their weekly rehearsals. Email chantezavecnous.cue@gmail.com or visit their website for more information.