In May of 2008, the Capella of Calvin College set off on a 2-week tour of the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, culminating with the Florilège Vocal de Tours, a renowned international choral competition in Tours, France. Little did they know that a video crew was coming along to film behind the scenes. If you thought you knew the Capella, prepare to be shocked and amazed at what the men and women of Capella are really like...But seriously folks, "Swets in the Hall" is a bit of a behind the scenes look at Capella's 2-week tour of Europe, presented in a reality tv-like format. We hope you enjoy the show!
This is it. The Grand Prix. It's down to four choirs. The entire tour has led up to this moment. How will Capella fare on their biggest stage yet? Can they cap this feel good story with a victory, or will they be sent home in shame and defeat? We invite you to sit back and enjoy the ride...
Here we have the continuation of the Swets in the Hall Series Finale... Join Capella as they bring their European Tour to a close and reflect on what an incredible experience it has been.
Episode 7 takes us to Day 2 of the Florilège Vocal de Tours International Choral Competition. The stakes are much higher than the first round and tensions are rising. Will Capella have what it takes to advance to the Grand Prix round?
Episode 6 sees Capella arrive in Tours for the start of the Florilège Vocal de Tours International Choral Competition! Are they ready for such a big stage, or will their nerves get the best of them? Can Dr. Navarro lead them on a successful run against older, more experienced choirs from all over the world? Let's find out!
Episode 5 chronicles Capella's time in Caan, including their visit to the Normandy Beaches and the American Military Cemetery and Memorial, accompanied by that absolutely incredible tour guide...
Episode 4 takes us from our wonderful host family stays in Kapelle back to the bus for the ride to France! Too much time together on a bus can lead to some pretty ridiculous things being said and done, so... consider yourself warned!
This episode covers a lot of bus time, with all the hilarity that entails. In between the bus trips, Capella also visits a church in Leiden to participate in their morning worship, stops in Kapelle for another stay with host families, and takes a day trip to Brugge, Belgium. And at the end of the episode we meet a certain someone...
Episode 2 takes us across the pond to the Netherlands, where the Capella enjoys such things as a canal ride through Amsterdam, a concert in the beautiful St. Janskerk in Gouda, and a night on the town with some hilarious host parents!
Episode 1 introduces you to the Capella of Calvin College and chronicles the rehearsal period leading up to tour, as Dr. Navarro tries to get the Capella ready for the tour and competition. Tensions run high as the tour departure date draws nearer and preparation is lacking.
Performance of Eric Whitacre's "i thank You God for most this amazing day", sung by the Capella of Calvin College under the direction of Dr. Joel Navarro and the University of the Philippines Singing Ambassadors under Ed Manguiat, performed while both choirs were competing in the 37th Florilège Vocal de Tours in Tours, France.