Not that they needed it, but Surrey-based Lyric Singers has a reason to celebrate. Twenty reasons, in fact.
While the choral group is currently in its 21st year, the choir is marking 20 years of performance.
The group was founded in 1994 by Marjorie Boerma, a Surrey resident who believed there was an audience for choral music in the community. She placed a newspaper ad and gathered enough talent for three separate choirs.
Eventually, the three choirs folded into one and after nine years, Boerma resigned to move to the U.S.
“My emphasis first and foremost was on a variety high-quality repertoire, and bringing in singers with potential, teaching choral and vocal technique,” she recalls.
“We often tackled tough pieces, always putting on enjoyable and well performed concerts. I had the time of my life in the nine seasons I conducted the Lyric Choirs, and am so grateful it has carried on so splendidly.”
Following in Boerma’s footsteps was Nancy Rahn, who is the current artistic director of the group. Lyric Singers remains focused on performing the best choral music, past and present, supporting Canadian composers and striving for excellence as it performs its extensive repertoire in Surrey and throughout the Lower Mainland.
The group’s Boar’s Head Madrigal Dinner is a huge hit and the group has collaborated with world-class musicians including Rita Costanzi and Heidi Kreutzen, as well as members of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Phoenix Chamber Choir and Electra Women’s Choir.
A concert celebrating two decades is scheduled this Saturday (May 2). Called The Best of Lyric, it takes place at Holy Trinity Cathedral (514 Carnarvon St., New Westminster) at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20.
For more information, call 604-340-4353, email lyricsingersbc@gmail.com or check www.lyricsingers.ca
