The choristers rose bright and early to prepare for the folk music competition. There was excitement in the air as the choir assembled for the bus ride to the Academy and the Great Hall.

The Traditional Folk Music Competition had 14 choirs in competition. Our Choir went fifth and sang "Ah! Si Mon Moine Voulait Danser" followed by "She's Like a Swallow".

Their performance, as we know now, was outstanding. The audience cheered and clapped after the first dance. During the second song, the judges put down their pencils and just listened. You could feel the emotion and longing of "Swallow" flow over the audience. Every chorister knew that they had given the best performance of their young careers.

After lunch the Choir had common song rehearsal. The choir then proceeded to Brooks Hall to give a concert with the Seattle Children's Chorus, Phoenix Girls Chorus, and the Sympatti Choir. As they got off the bus, Ms. Voigts informed them that they had won. A loud cheer was raised for a full 30 seconds.

Slightly motivated to give another performance, the choir performed 40 minutes of music, including there award winning folk music to an appreciative standing room only crowd. At the end the Choir received a standing ovation. People now know who the Saskatoon Children's Choir is.

By winning the award our choir had to repeat their performance for the Winner's Concert. The "SCC Auxilary" consisting of several mom's, repaired and ironed the folk costumes for one more performance.

At the concert, the choir again performed beautifully to the delight of over 3000 music lovers. The brightly colored costumes, dancing, and musical voices won over all. I could hear praise and discussion from people all around me.

At the end of the performance, Phoebe was presented with the trophy, and a 250 dollar award donated by The Inn at Westview.

At last the choir returned to the hotel, tired but still wanting to share the winning experience.

Choristers read and sent email to family and friends to share the news. There was quite a line up.

Tomorrow will be a relaxing day. A chance to sleep in and do some touring in the afternoon before the Gala closing concert.

Question of the day - What is the best thing(s) about being in the Saskatoon Children's Choir?

(Editors Note: This question was asked in the morning, before the award announcement)

"Having Ms. Voigts as our conductor"

"I am in it,we have strict chaperones,the best conductor in the world, and Bonnie playing the piano"

"Our conductor, and being able to meet tons of people"

"1. Everything is very organized"
"2. Many fun things happen"
"3. Our choir director is the most wonderful choir director in the world"
"I love being in the SCC. It feels just like home"

"The nice kids in the choir and how organized we are"

"Our great conductor who teaches us better than anyone else can. The SCC rocks"

"Our conductor Ms. Voigts is an excellent conductor and very generous to everyone"

"All the costume changes"

"Being able to perform at festivals and our conductor"

"Having the best conductor"

"Having Phoebe Voigts as our conductor"

"Being able to sing heavenly. All of us in being friends and helping each other"

A Slide Show taken by Mrs. Anderson's Group