“Kokeliko”, the choir that makes the homeless sing
When it does not evoke spring, the poppy is associated with rest, consolation and tranquility. It is in this spirit that was born, a little over a year ago, the choir “Kokeliko“. Its particularity: a somewhat special concept, that of make the voices of homeless people heard.
A choir of homeless people
In 2016, it was during a discussion with Christian Soulie, president of Main trend association 31, that the idea to germinate. The association works in favor of people in precarious situations and social exclusion by providing them with moral, material and educational assistance throughout the year. For his part, Florence, singing teacher and choir director for 16 years, was committed to working with people in precarious situations.
Thus, for five years, the Kokeliko choir takes place every other Saturday afternoon at thefree church, near Matabiau station. Beyond improving their vocal technique, the “Kokeliko” choir allows the social connection or even create it.
Music against social exclusion
Some there are only passing through, others stay there, but all those who have experienced it have found a “real family” there. The group currently has “23 choristers, a third of whom are homeless people“, indicates Florence to The Independent Opinion. Indeed, the choir mixes two audiences: that of volunteers and that of people with street experience. “This Diversity is voluntary for their buyer a sense of belonging to an environment other than that of the street “, explains the choirmaster.
Through music, she encourages the openness of people in precarious situations to fight against isolation.
“When they come through the rehearsal door, there are no more homeless people or any other social label. Everyone is a full-fledged chorister,” she says.
A philosophy that allows them to escape, the time of a few songs, the realities of the street. In addition, “music has respiratory properties and allows relaxation. It is a real pause in the midst of difficulties that they can go through in their daily life “, explains the choir director. And to add:” the goal is to offer them a breath of fresh air. “Indeed, these musical sessions are essential as a parenthesis enchanted in the difficult daily life of these people confronted with the indifference of the street.
Looking for new choristers
From Edith Piaf to Georges Brassens passing by Charles Aznavour, the choristers revisit big names of the French variety. “These are tunes that they know and bring back memories. In addition, during our performances, they are conducive to interaction with the public.” Car the choir Kokeliko gives voice at events such as the music festival but also at funerals or in accommodation centers. A rewarding experience that gives esteem.
Since the beginning of the health crisis, the activities of the choir were weakened. If the budding choristers appreciate this moment of sharing, “we have lost contact with some homeless choristers”, explains Florence. Choir “Kokeliko “ is therefore looking for new recruits among people in precarious situations. “There are no criteria, you just have to love to sing”, encourages Florence. Those interested just need to get in touch with the Main Tendue association or contact the choir directly.
>> Contacts: Florence 07.83.52.15.31 / [email protected]