Powell River Chorus is celebrating 60 years this month with a birthday concert.
A major institution in the city since 1955, the mixed men’s and women’s choir is holding its Diamond Jubilee Concert in the equally venerable, and newly restored, Dwight Hall.
“This is our birthday, come help us celebrate,” invited Janice Gunn, current president of the 70-member choir.
Accepting members without audition, the chorus is adept at singing four- and eight-part harmonies. Members range in age from 30 to the late 80s—with a former member Ted Hocking (now 101) even lying about his age to remain as a member, said Gunn.
“The music really celebrates the anniversary of the choir,” said Walter Martella, director and conductor for over 10 years, promising the event will include choir-picked favourites such as traditional choral songs, gospel music, as well as Abba and Beatles hits. Accompanist Maryna Gray will be at the piano to accompany the chorus.
“There aren’t that many choirs here who have been around this many years,” explained Martella, also director of Powell River Academy of Music. “Plus, the choir represents every walk of life in the community.”
There will be speeches at the event, including one prepared by charter member Dick Hibberd, 89, as well as guest performances by Chor Musica Men’s Choir, EnsemBelles women’s choir and the mixed Academy Chamber Choir.
Don James and Nancy Hollmann, prior conductors, will also be guests at the event.
“We don’t have to make our own entertainment anymore, but the choir is bigger than it ever was,” said Hollmann, who has an over-30-year history with the choir. “People sing to keep their memory working and for overall well-being.”
With financial support from Catalyst Paper Corporation and First Credit Union the chorus will also begin archiving materials this year, including past recordings, with the hope of setting up a website.
Hollmann said she hopes the anniversary event will prove to be a trip down memory lane for all and encourages members, current and past, to bring old photos of past events or performances if they’d like.
The Diamond Jubilee is at 7:30 pm on Wednesday, June 10, at Dwight Hall, with doors opening at 6:45 pm. There is table seating at the event, with settings for up to 10 guests per table, as well as bar service with beer and wine available for purchase.
Tickets $20, are available at Rockit Music, and include appetizers made by chorus members. Cake is also promised.
For more information readers can visit the website or call Gunn, 604.485.3825.
