The Vernon Kalamalka chapter of Sweet Adelines International is about to share 35 years of memories when it gives a performance at the Halina Centre Nov. 29.
The choir’s history goes back to the early 1970s when a group of Vernon women met to sing barbershop harmony as a prospective chapter of Sweet Adelines International.
After years of hard work, recruitment and refining their art, 37 members were granted chapter charter in August, 1980.
Their first appearance on stage was at a regional contest with Sweet Adeline members from the U.S. at the Seattle Opera House in spring, 1981.
The following year saw regional boundaries realigned and the Vernon group became part of a newly-formed and only all-Canadian region, featuring members from B.C., Alberta and Saskatchewan.
After several submissions, the name Vernon Kalamalka was approved by the group.
Through the decades, the chorus has appeared on many stages, both in competition and at the Vernon Recreation Centre and the Vernon Performing Arts Centre. Members have also worked on various fund-raising projects.
They have performed at special celebrations, seniors’ care facilities, and major events such as the B.C. Summer and Winter Games, and the Olympic Torch Relay.
Along the way, the chapter has received awards such as second place for small chorus in Vancouver in 1995.
Although small in numbers, VKC recently received a standing ovation for their regional appearance in Vancouver. Other special memories include the group’s invitation to the Austrian Alps Music Festival in 1997, the stage show, A Century of Song, in 2000, and the combined performance with the Okanagan Harmony Chorus and other Sweet Adelines chapters at three concerts in the Okanagan.
This year also marks the 70th anniversary of Sweet Adelines International.
The singers will share these and other memories at their performance Sunday, Nov. 29 at 2:30 p.m. in the Halina Centre (Vernon Rec. Centre) Everyone is welcome to join the group for refreshments and door prizes.
