You may have noticed that Sea Shanties are sweeping the internet. Starting as an TikTok trend, the catchy folk songs have become entrenched in all corners of the web. Originally made to help get sailors through difficult times, they are now helping people get through the pandemic.
Sea Shanties have a strong tradition in Atlantic Canada, and for their upcoming digital concert Chor Leoni enlisted the assistance of Montréal’s acclaimed La Nef, and shanty authority Seán Dagher. Shanties! A Musical Voyage is an hour filled with rollicking songs of the sea, haunting laments, and hearty sea shanties. Ahead of the trend the concert was originally presented by Early Music Vancouver in February 2020, and recorded in the Chan Centre for Performing Arts at UBC. Viewers will feel like they’re aboard a classic ship, with more than 50 voices bringing these exhilarating sea songs to life without having to worry about sea sickness.
Shanties! premiers online March 6th and available for viewing until March 14th. Chor Leoni has made the presentation free to everyone across Canada who RSVPs, so we can share the experience from the best seat in our house, and sing along from the sofa. If you’re so inclined and able, you might consider making a tax-deductible donation to Chor Leoni with your RSVP to help support their digital concert season. RSVP for Shanties! A Musical Voyage at chorleoni.org/shanties