Femke has been singing alto and soprano since 2015.
What does singing mean to you?
‘As a child I played the flute, but as an adult I enjoy singing more. Singing is closer to yourself because you use your own voice. And when all the voices in the choir come together and you become part of a whole, it’s magical.’
How important is it to you that we are a queer choir?
‘I think it’s a very valuable addition. The atmosphere in the choir is good. There is a safety and familiarity with each other. In the rest of my life, I actually meet very few fellow queer people, so this is a great way to connect with my community. Next year, in 2023, we will sing at the remembrance of the dead at the gay monument. I like that.
‘I also find it valuable that we sing classical music in particular. We reclaim music that comes from a tradition that has sometimes harmed and excluded us. Because we sing it, texts can take on a different meaning again.
‘Once I joined this choir, I felt I had found my ‘niche’. We share more than being lhbti.’
What is your fondest Gala choir memory?
‘The ‘Amasing’ lgbti Choirs festival, where we got to sing at the Concertgebouw. But during every rehearsal, there are moments when it works out! That searching with the notes on paper suddenly becomes music! Those are highlights every time.’
What is your favourite piece from the current repertoire?
‘Exsultate jubilate by Jenkins. A challenging piece with a nice build-up from small and soft to almost hysterical.’