INTRODUCTION
The Franco American Male Chorus as it is known today consists of twenty two members from the greater Lowell, MA and greater Salem, NH areas. Interestingly the group has consisted of two and three generation family groups as well as members that originally sang as boys in the St. Jeanne D'Arc of Lowell Boys/Men Choir, as well as the St Louis Church Choir in Lowell. The choir was formally registered as the Franco American Male Chorus in 1948 by the founder, George A. Ayotte, who was the mayor of the City of Lowell at that time. At the passing of Delia Ayotte, accompanist and wife of Mr. Ayotte, their daughter, Fleurette (Flo) Ayotte Sheehy, took over and became the group's very talented and dedicated accompanist. Flo came from a very musical family. Besides her mother and father, her three brothers and sister were all involved in the performing arts, specifically singing, piano and organ playing, her brother Rene is also part of the FAMC. Since 1974, after the passing of her mom, Flo began her long relationship with the FAMC. She has also accompanied La Chorale Orion and the Spindle City Singers. She has also "Touched" the organ in various churches in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. With the last concert the chorus sang in 2008 at the Lawrence Elks Memorial Service, Lawrence, MA held on 12-7-08, Flo retired as the accompanist for the FAMC. All our members wish her well in her retirement! She will truly be missed by all of us.
Director Robert Gaudette and Former Accompanist Flo Sheehy
In 1977, George Ayotte retired and turned the reins over to Robert (Bob) Gaudette, a loyal member since 1948. With his experience as the former Director of the Mary Queen of Peace Church Choir in Salem, NH (35+ years), the group maintains the professionalism exhibited under the former director with his dedication and the technical leadership that he provides. Bob is also director of the Salem Choral Society which he founded in 1972 and he directs a choir at the Holy Family Parish Church in Lowell, MA.
