Amabile Women’s Choir to sing Gold Medal Anthems at 2013 ISU World Figure Skating Championships®

OTTAWA, ON: London’s own Amabile Women’s Choir will add a special touch to the medal ceremonies at the upcoming 2013 ISU World Figure Skating Championships®. The group has been selected to sing the national anthem of the gold medallist at each of the four medal ceremonies. Medals will be awarded in the pair, men’s, ice dance and ladies categories.

The group consists of more than 50 female singers who range in age from 12 to adult, all conducted by Brenda Zadorsky. To ensure they have a wide repertoire to cover all potential champions’ national anthems, the choir has been hard at work. They have learned the words and music to a wide range of countries’ anthems in preparation for the event, which runs March 11-17 at the Budweiser Gardens in London, Ontario.

“Amabile was one of the first groups to approach us about being involved with the event,” said Jackie Stell-Buckingham, Director of Events for Skate Canada. “We had the opportunity to hear them sing during one of our site visits, and realized they could add something very special to the medal ceremonies.”

Typically an instrumental version of the anthem is played following the presentation of the gold, silver and bronze medals to the athletes. “We’re excited to present the anthems in the language of the athlete, and from such a polished, professional group of singers,” added Stell-Buckingham. “This is just one more example of how the community in London has responded to create a very special international event.”

“Our singers are used to acting as ambassadors for London when they travel the world, but to have the world come to London is going to be an unbelievable experience” said Lisa McCracken, Choir Manager. “We are extremely honoured to be given this opportunity.”

The first medal ceremony featuring the choir will take place following the conclusion of the pair event at approximately 3:00 p.m. on Friday, March 15th.

A few tickets remain for the events, and can be purchased online at www.budweisergardens.com, by phone toll-free in North America at 1.866.455.2849 or International direct at +1 (484) 875.7493, and in-person at the Budweiser Gardens box office.

For more information on the Amabile Choirs, please visit http://www.amabile.ca