The first meeting today of an informal 'lunchtime choir', launched by the Department of Education's Music Service, proved a smash success.
The choir, which meets at the Department's Music Service Centre on Lord Street, Douglas, is taken by Head of Music Service Maggie Richardson.
Eighty people turned up today for the first half-hour session after advance coverage in the local media, including isleofman.com.
Maggie says, "Such was the level of interest that a bigger venue is being sought.
"The gathering attracted a wide range of ages and experience, including some people who had never sung in a choir before.
"Two songs were learned by rote in 3 and 4-part harmony.
"The Zulu Song cause a few worried looks at first but the choir gave a very creditable performance, which was followed by delighted applause from the singers.
"There was much laughter and merriment throughout the rehearsal!"
Feedback from budding songbirds has already begun to pour in; one person has contacted Maggie to say, "how much I enjoyed the choir this lunchtime. I haven't had so much fun in a while!"
Maggie explains that everyone is welcome to come along, no matter what their background:
"You could have lots of experience or be a complete beginner.
"Vocal training will be included in every session and the emphasis is on having fun while meeting the challenge of singing in a range of musical styles, from traditional music from around the world and pop, folk and jazz arrangements to more serious, classical styles.
"You might not have sung since you were at school, or you might have been the person told to mime in the Sunday school nativity!
"Equally, you might have a little more experience and just fancy a good sing every Friday lunchtime as a wind down to the weekend.
"Either way, everyone is welcome."
If you would like to join the choir, contact the organisers in advance, on 686555, to indicate your interest, so that they can estimate numbers.
The next rehearsal will be on Friday 9th October at 1.15pm. Please ensure that you allow time for parking and arrive in good time.
Please note: Due to the popularity of the first session, the Department has arranged to move practices to the adjacent Salvation Army Citadel, which is a larger venue. The entrance is roughly opposite the fountain on the corner of Ridgeway Street and Lord Street.
