Sixth Singing Valentines

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Six years ago, Wah Keung Chan, founder and editor-in-chief of La Scena Musicale, launched a unique idea based on his great love of singing: Singing Valentines became a fundraiser for La Scena Musicale in which singers would donate their time to perform a love song for patrons’ loved ones.

When asked what led to the original idea, Chan explains that he regularly called his own loved ones to serenade them with their favourite songs on special occasions, and that he wanted to give readers a chance to give a special gift to their sweethearts. Even though the idea was originally for Valentine’s Day, the service is available year-round for any occasion!

Last February, the sixth edition of Singing Valentines featured renowned baritone Gino Quilico, who was on the cover of the December-January issue of the magazine. Other singers included Wah Keung Chan (tenor), Chantal Dionne (soprano), Simon Fournier (baritone), Janice Goodfellow (soprano), David Menzies (tenor), Suzie Taffot (soprano), and Priscilla-Ann Tremblay (mezzo-soprano). Above all, the generous collaboration and good humour of the performers assures the success of Singing Valentines year after year, and the LSM team is extremely grateful. For some, it’s a completely new experience.

“It’s different, singing over the phone,” says Gino Quilico. “Now I can say I’ve really done everything!” Singers are delighted to contact donors’ loved ones. “It was a pleasure to participate in the 2016 Singing Valentines! It was a musical, enjoyable, and unique experience, which brought together the passions of singing and love,” says Priscilla-Ann Tremblay. David Menzies tells us that “the clients think it’s a magnificent idea and they’re touched to know that a partner or friend is thinking of them.”

That said, participating in Singing Valentines is not necessarily easy for our singers. They must make themselves available despite busy schedules and handle unforeseen circumstances. That’s what happened when Chantal Dionne suffered an illness that prevented her from singing and had to be replaced at the last minute by her friend Suzie Taffot.

Still unsure of giving your beloved such an unconventional gift? Once again this year, numerous people expressed their satisfaction. Here are some testimonials that are sure to convince you …

“My spouse was very moved …”

“It’s a different idea.”

“It’s a well-considered and surprising gift!”

“Bravo for originality!”

“My mother loved receiving it.”

“Great work!”

“It’s hard to beat perfection.”

Interested in surprising one of your loved ones for a special occasion? Visit www.lascena.ca to order a Singing Valentine.