IF YOU have ever fancied singing in a choir then - no matter how old you are - there’s an opportunity to get your chance in September.
The Department of Education and Children’s Music Service is offering everyone the chance to unlock their “inner divas” at a Family Singing Weekend at St Ninian’s High School from September 10th to 12th.
The informal event is free and will cater for everyone from children aged seven upwards to adults who have always wanted to have a go at singing in a choir but can’t read a note of music. There will also be sections for those who prefer to sing with a score and even classes for teachers who wish to develop their choral conducting skills.
The weekend will comprise four courses running concurrently:
Children Making a Big Noise: Seven to 12-year-olds will learn exciting music from around the world and will join up with adult groups for some parts of the weekend (children must be accompanied by a participating adult).
No Dots Required: Singers aged 13 to 113, who have always wanted to have a go at singing in a choir but don’t read music, will tackle everything from pop, gospel and folk to more serious pieces.
Singing from the Score: For the same age group as No Dots Required but for those who prefer to have the score to jog the grey cells into action. Music will include folk and pop arrangements, standard choral repertoire and some surprises.
Choral conductor training for teachers: Giving those wishing to develop their conducting skills the chance to work with participating children to refine their technique with support and mentoring from the experienced and friendly tutors (limited to six places).
The weekend will end with an informal concert.
Maggie Richardson, Head of Music Service for the DEC and one of four conductors/tutors, said,
“There are so many opportunities, all over the Island, to sing but this event is a little different. It’s a chance for singers from different generations to enjoy learning together, whether they’re complete beginners or more experienced.
“Some activities will involve everyone but for most of the weekend we shall split into four groups so everyone learns music at a pace suitable for their age group and level of experience. The concert at the end of the course will celebrate the music learned during the weekend. The emphasis is strictly on quality learning in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.”
Generous sponsorship from the Lord Cockfield Trust has made the event possible. Maggie Richardson added, “The trustees are keen to open up the joy of singing to those who might not have tried it before so do bring along your children, grandchildren, parents, friends, or just come along by yourself – you’re bound to have made new friends by the end of the weekend.”
For a booking form visit http://www.gov.im/lib/docs/education//familysingingwkend1065.pdf or ring the Music Centre on 01624 686555. Forms should be returned by September 7th.
For those bitten by the singing bug, the Music Service’s Friday Choir meets weekly during term-time from Friday September 24th (1.15pm to 1.45pm) at the Salvation Army Citadel in Lord Street, Douglas.
Maggie started the choir last year and said, “I’m looking forward to seeing everyone again and to welcoming new singers. It’s a great way to rev up for the weekend – many members have said it’s their best 30 minutes of the week. Energising, therapeutic, relaxing, fun, challenging, exciting – everything singing should be!”
