Trip to Vienna a fantastic experience

In the early hours of November 28th, 20 members of the Glaslinn Ladies’ Choir set off on a 5 day visit to Vienna, Austria. The choristers were accompanied by their musical director Antoinette Baker, accompanist Ruth O’ Shea and loyal supporter Kathleen Canty. From start to finish the trip was a wonderful experience and a great success. The choir’s first performance was in the historic St Stephen’s Cathedral in the heart of Vienna. Among the audience was Bandon native Blaithin (daughter of Sean and Roisin Kelleher) with her 3 week old baby daughter.

The following afternoon the choir sang at the Christmas Market in front of the renowned Schonbrunn Palace. The large crowd there was charmed by the Christmas carols and traditional Irish music sung by the choir and its soloists Una Ryan, Mairead Casey, Joan Barry and Caroline McSweeney.

The choir had a packed schedule visiting many of the historic attractions of this most beautiful area such as the Vienna State Opera House, the Heiligenkreuz monastery and Belvedere Castle. The atmospheric Christmas markets afforded opportunities for shopping and sampling the local gluhwein. The choir also managed a few impromptu performances on the street and in restaurants!

Choir member Mary O Donoghue was ever ready to capture all the photo opportunities that arose. A great spirit of camaraderie and fun prevailed for the 5 days. Indeed the trip was so successful that plans for a trip in 2014 have already been mooted.

Above is the Choir visiting the Belvedere Palace. Visit the Photos page to see more photos of the trip.