David André and the Choral & Music Society of Seychelles

David André is a recognized Seychellois musician, guitar teacher, founder of the music conservatory in Victoria, author of the Seychellois anthem, and the director of the Choral & Music Society of Seychelles.
I first heard of David in Paris, when Mme Stevens lent me one of his CDs. Educated in the Seychelles, France, and Canada, David writes songs which are to unite people. His music represents various styles and influences, but above all depicts the Seychellois spirit.
While in France and in the US I often listened to David's songs in Creole. I quickly realized that the tunes are easy to retain. By January 2008 I could already sing several of them with the guitar. "Dir mwan en parol" is my favorite:-)
I managed to contact David way before arriving in the Seychelles. I told him that I like his songs and that I had learned to play them and sing.
When we finally met in October, he was intrigued why I was so much interested in his music. I told him about the Watson and played my versions of his songs for him. Fortunately, he did not seem particularly offended... A great relief. Actually, from word to word, I learned about his Choral Society, and was invited to join the rehearsals...















At first I only listened to one or two concerts - like this one, a holy mass in Baie St Lazare, organized for the Festival Kreol.

















The performance in the Cathedral in Victoria, on Ste Cécile's, marked my first active participation in the Society.
Here you can see me - in the 4th row, unfortunately still missing the peach scarf (:-), yet truly
happy to be part of the group.

















Rehearsing for the concert organized to commemorate the Human Rights Day...


















...and on the day of the concert, Dec. 7 2008, only a few days before my ultimate departure from the Seychelles.
With other female members of the Society.
In the repertoire - a selection from David's "Missa Insularum," as well as the "Ode to Joy."