Many choir MDs find that one size definitely doesn’t Fit all when it comes to sheet music for their community choirs. You may be running a mixed ability choir, or a choir with a limited vocal range. It may be (as the case sadly is with many communit...

the Musical Magic of theater and Cinema 2/27/15

[A version of this article first appeared as a post on my blog From the Front of the Choir]   Here in the UK the arts seem to cater for just three age groups.   Photo by vintagedept   If you don’t Fit into one of these, t...

Mood Swing is made up of about 20 members. Some have been here since the beginning, some joined this year and others Fit somewhere in the middle. We have an exacting standard of singing - we are just not sure what that exactly is! One of the most impo...  moreMood Swing is made up of about 20 members. Some have been here since the beginning, some joined this year and others Fit somewhere in the middle. We have an exacting standard of singing - we are just not sure what that exactly is! One of the most important facets of Mood Swing is that we have fun with what we do and it comes across not only in our singing, but also in our performances. We may not have perfected laughing and singing at the same time, but we give it a fair go! Since 2001, Mood Swing have been wowing audiences with our full sounds and suave choreography. With a range of music from '20s swing, African songs, traditional gospel, contemporary hits and fun ditties arranged in three and four parts, Mood Swing have something for all ages. Fabulously led by Lisa Schwabe, Mood Swing have been singing around Melbourne at concerts, churches and private functions to the delight of all who see and hear us. Don't you be the one to miss out!  less

Zulu church/ protest song: "the walls of Jericho are falling." Understood to be a reference to the fall of apartheid. As sung by the Polokwane Choir, taught by Northern Harmony. This is from the OK Chorale's first ever public concert in Woodbridge, Suf...  moreZulu church/ protest song: "the walls of Jericho are falling." Understood to be a reference to the fall of apartheid. As sung by the Polokwane Choir, taught by Northern Harmony. This is from the OK Chorale's first ever public concert in Woodbridge, Suffolk, UK on 24 March 2012. Not the best of lighting! Also a bit shouty in places as it was many of the singers' first time in front of an audience. www.chrisrowbury.com  

Just a clip from a piece we did at our annual outreach concert today. Winter's Night

This piece is a song of consolation about a loved one who feels his time is drawing near. Just before he leaves, he reassures his loved ones who remain after him with the words of consolation: 'In my mind all is beautiful'. the theme would Fit perfectly f...  moreThis piece is a song of consolation about a loved one who feels his time is drawing near. Just before he leaves, he reassures his loved ones who remain after him with the words of consolation: 'In my mind all is beautiful'. the theme would Fit perfectly for funeral. the piece is available in the following arrangements : - for SATB Choir & piano. - for SSA Choir & piano. - for Solo voice, SAT choir & piano. - for Solo voice & Piano. As the piece hasn't been performed by a choir yet, you can listen to the original version. Here are the lyrics: Calmly, my soul is ready to go. Now, it is time to say 'Goodbye'. Yes, it is time to say 'Goodbye'. In my mind all is beautiful. In my mind, all is beautiful in my mind. Still my heart is so close to your heart, But the time comes to say 'Goodbye'. Sadly, it's time to say 'Goodbye'. In my mind all is beautiful. And from up there, I will ask all the angelsTo take care of you my love. And, I will pray every day and I will wait 'Til you come find me above.  less

In 1982 a dream and a vision came alive. Trying to Fit LCGC into a neat slot is virtually impossible. LCGC is known for their up-tempo gospel flair, swing-beat, R’n'B, traditional and soulful arrangements, with their invigorating choreography and vocal gy...  moreIn 1982 a dream and a vision came alive. Trying to Fit LCGC into a neat slot is virtually impossible. LCGC is known for their up-tempo gospel flair, swing-beat, R’n'B, traditional and soulful arrangements, with their invigorating choreography and vocal gymnastics – LCGC is outstanding to watch! It’s 40+ members perform just about anywhere, private corporate functions, after-show parties, conferences, schools, cabaret functions, clubs, weddings, christenings, funerals, prisons, churches, open-air festivals, theatres and concert halls. LCGC have sung on the soundtrack for Walt Disney’s “the Lion King”, performed for Nelson Mandela during his famous visit to London, officiated at many celebrity weddings and supported Madonna on stage during Live 8. they represent the best of British and have been sponsored by the British Council at international festivals in Europe, Africa and Israel. A choir used to making history, they were the choir chosen to perform at the memorial concert for the victims of July 7th London ...    less

Sweet Kate, of late Ran away and left me 'plaining: “Abide,” I cried, “Or I die with thy disdaining.” “Tee! hee! hee!” quoth she, “Gladly would I see, Any man to die with loving. Never any yet, Died of such a Fit, Neither have I fear of proving.”...  moreSweet Kate, of late Ran away and left me 'plaining: “Abide,” I cried, “Or I die with thy disdaining.” “Tee! hee! hee!” quoth she, “Gladly would I see, Any man to die with loving. Never any yet, Died of such a Fit, Neither have I fear of proving.” “Unkind, I find Thy delight is in tormenting, Abide,” I cried, “Or I die with thy consenting.” “Tee! hee! hee!” quoth she, “Make no fool of me, Men I know have oaths at pleasure; But their hopes attained, they belay they feigned, And their oaths are kept at leisure.”  less

Notations Children's Choir is Calgary's newest children's choir for ages 7 - 12 years in the NW of Calgary. Other age group sessions will follow. No auditions, no fundraising and once a week rehearsals to Fit busy schedules. ​the choir rehearsals will...  moreNotations Children's Choir is Calgary's newest children's choir for ages 7 - 12 years in the NW of Calgary. Other age group sessions will follow. No auditions, no fundraising and once a week rehearsals to Fit busy schedules. ​the choir rehearsals will teach vocal technique, voice production and projection, learning to sing in two part harmony, movement and rhythm, help build confidence, solo singing opportunities, performances and overall to have fun singing!! Repertoire will include popular chart songs, disney, music theatre and other genres.  less