The Czech Philharmonic Children's Choir visit Iizuka City, Fukuoka, and Tokyo for two concerts this month and next of traditional and folk songs from around the world.

Since it was established in 1932, the choir has become one of the Czech Republic's top ensembles, regularly performing at major international festivals.

At their Japan concerts, they will reveal the full breadth of their repertoire, which ranges from traditional European choral works (including Dvorak's gorgeous "Humoresque" and Bernstein's grandiose "Gloria Tibi") to current Czech folk songs, whose poignant melodies provide a soft contrast to the vibrant music of Mozart.

Unlike the traditional, stuffy atmosphere associated with some classical concerts, the Czech Philharmonic Children's Choir's performances are very much interactive.

Though professionals, the young singers are children excited at meeting kids of similar ages in each country they visit, and they are known to continue their established friendship as pen pals long after their tours have ended.

On this tour, they will collaborate with local children's choirs to sing nostalgic Japanese children's songs and folk songs with titles like "Furusato (Homeland)" and "Natsu no Omoide (Memories of Summer)." They might even invite the audience to pipe up during the climax.

The Czech Philharmonic Children's Choir sings at Iizuka Cosmos Common, Iizuka City, Fukuoka Prefecture on July 31 (3 p.m, 3,000 yen; tel. [0948] 210-606) and at Tokyo Opera City Concert Hall on Aug. 3 (7 p.m.; tel. [03] 3574-0550).

Tickets are 5,000 yen (3,000 yen for children aged 3-14). For more information, visit mv-classic.eplus2.jp/article/46556612.html