The Sooke Community Choir wowed audiences with three separate yearend Christmas concerts. The theme, A Christmas Past, highlighted Sooke’s history, and embraced a wide range of old time melodies. Readings from Maywell Wickheim’s new book, and a powerful piano recital, Rachmaninov’s Prelude in G minor, by our talented pianist, Gillian Lemire-Elmore rounded out the show. The choir performed to record, full house crowds, and even earned a standing ovation.
The word around Sooke is that the choir has reached new heights under the directorship of our charismatic new leader, Bruce Ruddell. One choir member explained the dynamics of the group like this: “The truth is, we love to sing and work at making it sound better. Bruce has a way of coaxing the very best vocals from each person, and that is why we are able to offer a concert like we did.”
The performances ended by candle light with the entire audience singing along with Dona Nobis Pachem and Silent Night. It was a truly heartwarming experience for all, to hear the community’s fervent voices resounding in harmony together.
The choir would like to thank all those who made donations for home baked goods during intermission. Together we raised $839 for the Food Bank!
For those who are 17+, the new session rehearsals start up on Wednesday, January 7 at Holy Trinity Church on Murray Rd. The music chosen for the spring term are popular and folk tunes with unique arrangements and exciting rhythms. If you would like to chase those winter blues away, this is a great way to do it. This is a wonderfully social bunch, and there is no ‘max’ age. Remember that your vocal chords need exercise too! Come join the fun and camaraderie.
Visit our website: sookecommunitychoir.com or call Sally at 250-642-3566.
We look forward to seeing you in the New Year, and wish you all the best for 2015.
