By Val Javin
Have you heard how good singing is for you? It helps relieve stress, improves memory and lung function and boosts general wellbeing – and what’s more – IT’S FUN!
If you do fancy singing and making new friends at the same time then Marsh Ladies Choir has an invitation just for you.
On Thursday February 16, the choir is holding an Open Rehearsal at its base in Lindley Methodist Church (7.30pm).
All you have to do is turn up and listen to the choir sing some of its much-admired mix of musical styles from classical and folk tunes to swing, jazz and songs from the shows.
You will receive a warm welcome from the singers and from musical director Ian Abbott and accompanist Kim Kaye and if you like what you hear, you can join in.
The choir sings in four different parts and if you know what part you sing then you can start there. If not, you can try out the different sections during your first few weeks with the choir. After a few rehearsals, MD Ian will listen to you sing just to ensure that you are in the right part of the choir to suit your voice.
Known throughout the region for its joyous sound, engaging repertoire and its loyal supporters, Marsh Ladies Choir has taken its music on tour to France and Estonia in past years as well as across the UK.
Last year, they were the guests of Penrhyn Male Voice Choir in North Wales and the Welsh choir is making the return trip in April to sing alongside Marsh Ladies Choir in Huddersfield.
When they are not singing, the choir has a strong social side organising walks, picnics, an annual dinner and theatre trips offering lots of opportunities to chat, laugh and get to know each other.
The choir likes to have fun but is serious about making music and works hard at singing well, so much so that last autumn they came home with a trophy after winning one of the classes at Holmfirth Music Festival.
MLC, which was founded in 1955, currently has about 40 members and is keen to share the fun of singing and show just how good singing is for you. Rehearsals are held on Thursdays at Lindley.
For more information about the Open Rehearsal or if you can’t make that date and still want to see if singing and Marsh Ladies Choir are for you, go to the website www.marshladieschoir.co.uk, email the choir at info@marshladieschoir.co.uk or message via Facebook.
Whichever route you take, you will receive a warm welcome. Happy singing.
