By Val Javin
Make Thursday nights memorable by joining the community of music-makers that is Marsh Ladies Choir.
That’s the invitation from the 40-strong group of singers who would love you to experience for yourself the joy of singing, the thrill of performances and the warmth of companionship.
Marsh Ladies Choir create harmonies and memories, every Thursday night – it is, they say, quite simply their favourite night of the week!
And the choir is offering a chance to join them, whether you are a regular singer, someone who has perhaps sung before but not in a choir, or have just never had the opportunity to try singing and would like to give it a try.
All are guaranteed a warm welcome from the singers who are known for their joyous sound, engaging repertoire and loyal supporters.
The choir loves to make music and has shared melodies not just across this country but on tours to Estonia and France. This year, the group celebrated winning form at the Mrs Sunderland Music Festival collecting the Joseph Hancock Trophy for first place in one of the choir classes.
And it could hardly be a better time to join them. Next year, Marsh Ladies Choir celebrates 70 years of singing and is already planning lots of special events to mark that musical milestone.
For in addition to making musical memories, the choir has a vibrant social scene. It’s not all rehearsals. There are walks and theatre trips, garden parties and annual dinners, all creating opportunities to bond, laugh and forge lasting friendships.
The choir says it is dedicated to musical excellence while fostering a spirit of enjoyment. If it sounds like the place for you where community, camaraderie, music and having fun all go together then put Thursday, June 27 in your diary.
That’s when the choir invites you to Sing Ladies, Sing, an open rehearsal where you can see if making music while having fun is for you.
The two hour rehearsal is at Lindley Methodist Church, where the choir meets each week, and starts at 7.30pm. It will offer a taste of the diverse repertoire of songs which you can expect to learn and plenty of opportunity to see where you might fit within the four different vocal parts.
If you aren’t sure where you might fit into the various sections, don’t worry. Choir members, plus musical director Ian Abbott and accompanist Kim Kaye, will ensure you feel right at home and will support and encourage new members to experiment with the various sections in their first few weeks.
After three rehearsals with the choir, new members have a simple audition ensuring a harmonious fit with their wider choir family.
If you’d like to know more, head for the website at www.marshladieschoir.co.uk, message the choir on Facebook or just turn up on June 27. A warm welcome awaits you.
