One of the country’s few dedicated Choirs for people living with and beyond cancer is intensifying its search for a new Musical Director as the clock ticks down to their current leader’s retirement. The Choir is keen to appoint a new person to the role as soon as possible, to facilitate a smooth transition: providing assurance and stability for their enthusiastic members.
The Choir are looking for a talented individual with the skills and experience to ensure they are the best they can be.
Karen Elliott, Founder and Chair said: -‘We are looking for someone to bring out the best in us; challenge and inspire us: to help us scale new heights; take us on wonderful vocal voyages of discovery and keep enjoyment at the heart of all we do.
It’s important they share our ethos, drive and commitment. We know the right person is out there, we just have to find each other! This is a wonderful opportunity to be part of something very special.
We are determined to find the right person for the role and though it wouldn’t be easy, we are willing to consider changing our current rehearsal night from a Monday in order to secure the ideal person to take us forward.’
The forty-strong, mixed voice Choir was established by Karen in 2012, at a time when the therapeutic benefits of singing in a Choir were not widely recognised. The Choir certainly offers an unusual form of support for those going through treatment, moving forward following completion of treatment or living with cancer as a chronic condition, and members have reported favourable effects such as improved breathing, increased energy levels, a more positive outlook and an increased sense of well-being: but it’s their unquestionable love of singing or the desire to give it a try that attracts members to their ranks. Members are passionate about singing and rehearsals are an important part of their weekly routine: their focus is on the music they make together and forthcoming appearances and choral activities.
The Choir has never let cancer define or restrict them: highlights to date include their annual ‘Jingle Bell Sing-A-Long’ concert at the Victoria Hall to which, over the years they have welcomed Besses o’th’ Barn Band and the Greater Manchester Police Band as their guests; recording a CD; being featured on BBC Northwest Tonight, ITV Granada Reports, That’s Manchester and C5 News; appearing at Manchester Cathedral in the ‘Christmas Celebration’ of Greater Manchester Police; their 5th Birthday concert with guests Salford Symphony Orchestra and Affetside Choir; a joint venture with the legendary ‘Houghton Weavers’ and most recently, their appearance at the world-renowned Royal Albert Hall, London, in the ‘Festival of Brass and Voices’, last November.
For anyone interested in the role of Musical Director or in joining the Choir, further details are available from Karen on 01204 595562 / 07773 164235
