Choir sings With One Voice

BALLARAT’s With One Voice choir is not only in-song after a pandemic break, but moving to a new home at Sturt Street’s City Oval Bowling Club.

The expanding initiative of Creativity Australia is locally sponsored by UFS Dispensaries and the Buninyong & District Community Bank. CA launched the choir in Ballarat in 2019.

As its members reunite for a new year of “friendly and relaxed” rehearsals, and the ensemble begins to transition to their fresh space, conductor Suzanne Hobson said excitement is “palpable.”

“We are really growing as a musical group, and quite frankly, sounding wonderful,” she said.

“Rehearsals have begun, every Wednesday night at 6pm. Singing has been, for these members, a way of connecting with others, developing their musical skills and being part of something very special indeed.

“The group warms up and there is focus and concentration as the choir launches into their songs. No singing or music-reading experience is necessary and there are no auditions. There are also plenty of light moments and laughs, and a strong team spirit.”

Members come from diverse communities and backgrounds, they are of all ages – with some older children accompanied by an adult – and the repertoire of music is varied.

“It includes everything from early and world music, to popular songs through the ages. Current choir favourites include Gershwin’s Summertime, The Seekers’ I’ll Never Find Another You, and the beautiful traditional Bella Mama,” Ms Hobson said.

“Some members join for a purpose, to expand their musical knowledge and skills, or to develop their English. Some find that it’s a great place to meet people, to grow self-confidence, or to have some much-valued me-time.”

A light supper follows each rehearsal where members can mingle in a COVID-safe way.

“This is when a ‘wish list’ is made available; a book in which people can request or offer a gift to other members. Anything from an item of furniture, to helping someone in their garden,” she said.

There is no need to book to try, but anyone interested is encouraged to visit bit.ly/2XSNmHD.