U3A excited for Christmas Concert return

A GROVEDALE-BASED choir group is brimming with excitement ahead of their biggest concert of the year.

The University of the Third Age (U3A) Geelong Choir will take over Grovedale’s St Cuthbert’s Church on November 29 performing its annual Christmas Concert.

The choir traditionally holds the Christmas Concert at its regular rehearsal space inside Cobbin Farm’s chapel in Grovedale, but choir secretary Dawn Cunningham says an influx of members in recent years has meant the concert is moving to a larger venue.

“Because we now have such a large choir, more than doubling our numbers from 21 to 54 in the past couple of years, I discussed with our music director the need to move the concert to a different venue,” Ms Cunningham said.

“After enquiring about six different venues, it was St Cuthbert’s that got back to us with the good news, and we can’t be more excited.”

The choir has been preparing for the concert since the beginning of the year, meeting each Wednesday afternoon perfecting a 13-strong list of songs, Christmas-related and non-Christmas-related songs.

Ms Cunningham says the choir has made several changes since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Former choir member and founder of the Geelong Welsh Ladies Choir Jeanette John stepped into the music director role to take over from choir founder Margaret Hughes in 2020.

Former accompanist Jan Smith followed suit and retired at the same time, allowing Tyabb-based musician Heather Wickes to become part of the choir’s structure.

“I’ve been a part of the choir for the past 12 years, 10 of which were with Margaret and the past two with Jeanette and Heather, and everyone loves looking forward to rehearsal each week,” Ms Cunningham said.

“Jeanette gets the ball rolling each week and we know it takes a lot out of her each week, so we’re extremely grateful to have her and Heather on-board this year.”

Ms John promised the November 29 performance to be a fun and balanced one.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for the community to connect to some nice music, because not everyone has family to share this time of the year with either,” Ms John said.

“The musical talent that is in the group is tangible and on full display for anyone to see.

“We also have healthy balance of soprano and alto sections. Just come along for a beautiful afternoon of music.”

The concert will run from 1.30pm to 3pm. Entry on the day will be by gold coin donation.U3A Geelong Choir secretary Dawn Cunningham and music director Jeanette John in front of Cobbin Farm’s chapel in Grovedale – the choir’s rehearsal space. Photo: VINNIE VAN OORSCHOT