By Danielle Kutchel
It’s been a challenging year for those involved in the arts, but Voices of Casey Inc. choir have kept up their activity, rehearsing via Zoom during Covid restrictions.
WIth 2021 approaching and hope of in-person rehearsals on the horizon, Voices of Casey has announced the appointment of a new music director to lead it into the future.
Kerry Gerraty is a highly qualified musician and director, and will be leading the choir in an exciting program.
“I am thoroughly delighted to be appointed music director of Voices of Casey having been accompanist and assistant MD for this wonderful group a few years ago,” Ms Gerraty said.
“It is such a joy to be able to share my love of music and my sense of fun and I am very excited to nurture and grow the choir to its fullest, all while having a good sing!”
The choir’s aim is to have fun and enjoyment while connecting through singing as a community choir.
Choir manager, Paulien George, said the group had moved to Zoom for practising over lockdown, which had presented some technical issues.
She said members had missed each other’s company and the “camaraderie of harmonising together”, but she is positive that the choir will be able to sing together again next year, in a Covid-safe way.
“Choir singing is a fantastic experience, probably due to the release of neurochemicals such as endorphins,” Ms George said.
“It is great to make music with fellow singers, you get to meet up with people from all walks of life and age groups. A great bond is formed between choir members.
“Often people come to choir feeling pretty down, but at the end of practice they go home with a smile on their face.”
Voices of Casey is hoping to be able to put on a concert for Mother’s Day and later in 2021 to host a festival where singers from other choirs can join with them.
Voices of Casey is a non-auditioned SATB choir. Rehearsals are held each Monday from 7.00-9.30pm at Fiddlers Green Retirement Village, 57 Gloucester Avenue, Berwick.
To express your interest in joining Voices of Casey or stay informed on the choir’s activities, find them on Facebook at ‘Voices of Casey Inc. for Song, Fun and Friendship’ or call 0412 741 195, email voicesofcasey@gmail.com or address your letter to P.O. Box 511, Beaconsfield 3807.
