The Undersåkers Choir Christmas show
Client: Undersåkerskören, Åre pastorat
EVENTS
Jack de Hosson
12/17/20234 min read
Every year, the Undersåkers Choir (Undersåkerskören) orchestrates a heartwarming Christmas show, enchanting the audience with their harmonious voices and spreading festive joy to the hundreds of eager listeners.
For many locals, attending these Christmas shows has evolved into a cherished tradition, a 'must-have' in their festive calendar. The popularity has soared to such heights that this year, the choir organized not one, but two back-to-back shows, both of which were completely sold out, amassing an impressive total of 800+ tickets!
In addition to the live shows, the Undersåkers Choir recorded the entire performance and streamed it on Facebook for those who couldn't secure tickets, extending the festive magic to a wider audience.
A christmas tradition
My story
The day before the show, Per Wiklander, the choir leader, reached out to me for assistance in recording the event. I readily agreed, and we devised a plan: capturing stills during the first show and handling video work during the second.
My role was to complement the two stationary cameras already in place, ensuring a more dynamic and engaging recording by introducing additional angles.
And so the next day, at 3pm, my work could commence.
Location
Nestled on a hill, 20 minutes outside of Åre, lies our venue, Undersåkers Kyrka. Arriving at 3 pm, I find people already securing prime seats for the first show. I launch my drone in to the air to get the twilight. During my flight I capture this image along with some videos intended for the live stream.
Stills
Click to view full images.
Video
Here is a highlight video featuring the best shots I captured during show number two. Put your headphones on for this one, as the footage is synced up to the choir singing "Carol of the Bells."
Local legends
This year, the choir consisted of near 100 incredible individuals, including two local musical legends.
Torsten Lind
Per Wiklander
For years, Torsten has graced the choir with his powerful rendition of "Oh Holy Night" at their concerts, making it a staple presentation. Understandably, people were very disappointed when he last year announced that it would be his final rendition. However, to the delight of the audience, he made a return this year with an encore performance. Walking down the church aisle to a thunderous applause from the crowd, sending chills down the spines of the listeners with his captivating voice.
In Åre, Per is well-renowned for his exceptional musical skills. Besides leading the choir, he produces heartwarming songs with his band "Två Blå" and plays impressive basslines on stage. He also organizes music nights at the local bakery and tends to leave people speechless with his piano. As the choir conductor, he not only skillfully brings together about 100 individuals but also adds infectious enthusiasm to their performance. Watching him leaves people amazed and inspired, making him a true legend.
Summary
If you have the chance to attend the Undersåkers Choir's Christmas concert, don't miss it. It will envelop you in a warm, fuzzy Christmas feeling and get you ready for the holidays!
For me, it was an amazing experience and a good challenge, really putting my creative abilities to the test. It has also left me with one of my fondest memories of the year—having 100 beautiful voices piped right through my audio monitoring equipment, in through my ears; stimulating me on a soul level.
So, thank you, Per Wiklander, and Undersåkerskören, for this opportunity, and thank you for delivering such an excellent concert.
'Til next time!
Cheers!
/Jack de Hosson