05/06/2026
Mickelham Choral Society had the privilege to perfom at a concert in Sinalunga at the end of May. MCS kindly provided us with some photos and notes from this event, where Gianni Bagnoli, our DDTTA counter-part in Sinalunga attended the concert and organised a very nice and warm welcome to this great returning choir. I have included below, Gianni's comments on the concert and continuous cultural exchange between Dorking and Sinalunga.
Extract from a letter sent to Juliet Hornby (Mickleham Choral Society) by Gianni Bagnoli (Flos Vocalis, Sinalunga)
What we have experienced together has been far more than a series of
concerts. It has been a journey that began many months ago, built step
by step through enthusiasm, dedication, friendship and a shared love for
choral music. Looking back, it is remarkable to think how an idea born
in September 2025 has grown into something so meaningful and memorable.
First of all, thank you, Juliet. Your musical vision, your enthusiasm
and your ability to bring people together made all of this possible.
What began as a project linked to important personal milestones became
an experience capable of connecting communities, cultures and
friendships across countries. Your passion has inspired all of us, and
it has been a privilege to work and perform alongside you.
A special thank you also goes to Ambie. Behind every successful project
there is often a great deal of unseen work, and throughout these months
we have witnessed an extraordinary level of care, commitment and
organisation. From the first planning stages to the final details of the
visit, everything was handled with generosity, kindness and remarkable
dedication. Please accept our sincere gratitude for everything you have
done.
And of course, our thanks go to every singer of the Mickleham Choral
Society. From the very first rehearsal together, we felt not only your
musical quality, but also your warmth, openness and genuine friendship.
We shared rehearsals, concerts, meals, conversations, laughter and
unforgettable moments that helped transform colleagues into friends.
The concerts in Chiusi and Sinalunga will remain among the most
cherished memories of our choir. Seeing the audience rise to its feet at
the end of the Gloria in both venues was deeply moving, but perhaps even
more meaningful was the atmosphere created among all of us throughout
these days. The music was beautiful, but the human experience behind it
was even more valuable.
The final Mass on Sunday morning felt like the perfect conclusion to a
journey that celebrated not only music, but also friendship, hospitality
and mutual understanding. It reminded us that music has a unique power:
it brings people together in ways that words alone often cannot.
