Vocally Wild creates a newsletter periodically to keep our friends, supporters and followers up-to-date with the activities and events of the choir. It is delivered via our friends email mailing list.
Anyone can subscribe to this mailing list to receive our newsletters as they are released.
To subscribe (or unsubscribe), enter your email address in the box to the right...
Below is a list of all past issues...
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - JANUARY, 2023
Sat, 21 Jan 2023Happy New Year to you all!
Choir’s return is pretty close – how good it will be to see you all again! Bill has selected some new, wonderful and interesting songs for the year so we hope you’re all looking forward to Term 1 with enthusiasm. See below how we’ll kick off on the 7th Feb, plus detail of our planned Welcome Back session!
We’re still on the look-out for a better quality, younger piano so our Piano fund-raising campaign will begin in earnest with an Easter Raffle! More detail of course to follow.
First term dates are below – the 2023 Diary will soon fill up so watch this space!
FIRST REHEARSAL – TUESDAY, 7TH FEBRUARY
As mentioned, Bill has been busy selecting music for us this year, resulting in a wonderful mixture of songs which we should all enjoy. For our first rehearsal we’ll start and finish with a couple of familiar pieces, so please bring Nos. 1 and 7 along in your folders, plus the ‘Crazy for You’ Gershwin Medley. Maggie will arrange printing of ‘On Broadway’ and ‘Due Pupille Amabili’ (listen to this on U-tube if you have a moment, it’s delightful) and these will be ‘available at the table’.
Order for the 7th February rehearsal:
1. This Little Light of Mine
2. Embraceable You
3. I Got Rhythm
4. They Can't Take That Away From Me
5. On Broadway (new)
6. Due Pupille Amabili (new)
7. A Place in the Choir.
Remember you can access the ‘Crazy for You’ practice recordings on the Website. If you have time, you may wish to familiarise yourself with the recordings and the sheet music beforehand, then we will be able to hopefully cover all these on our first evening!
The 'roll points' in the rehearsal recordings of Crazy for You (the Gershwin medley) are
- Embraceable You ~ 3:40-5:08 (bars 112-144)
- I Got Rhythm ~ 5:08-6:28 (144-207)
- They Can't Take That Away From Me ~ 8:07-9:28 (bars 284-303)
If you don’t have the music, Maggie will have copies on the table. Maggie does ask that if you have multiple copies of any sheet music, please return them to her – this will keep our printing costs down. For example, if you have forgotten to bring a certain song to rehearsal and borrow it from the table for the evening, please remember to replace it on your way out. Any Christmas Carols sheet music is also welcome.
WELCOME PARTY – TUESDAY, 28TH FEBRUARY, 6.00 P.M. BEAUMARIS HALL
To welcome everyone, especially our new members, we will be having a get-together at our Hall, (outside at the rear if the weather is good). Come along at 6.00 p.m. and then stay for our rehearsal. (Partners welcome too, of course - they may even like to stay to sing!). Food will be supplied, so just bring your own drinks/glasses. We’ll start our rehearsal as usual at 7.30 p.m. and polish off the rest of the food at ‘break time’ if there’s any left!
Don’t forget, bring your own cup, but we have mugs in the kitchen now, so go in and make a cuppa if you wish to.
MEMBERSHIP
Cherry will be sending out invoices for Semester Fees shortly – please note that there has been an increase of $40 per semester. If you have any queries regarding payment of Casual rates, please write to the Committee for approval. For your information, see “Frequently Asked Questions” on our Website. Go to Contact, then ‘Become a Member’. This should help.
Our membership is pretty healthy; however, we are happy to enrol a few more Vocally Wilders, so if you have friends who might enjoy being part of our choir, do ask them to come along and try us out. Maggie will continue providing Loan Folders for use on the night. It would be especially advantageous if we could entice a few more men to join the ranks of the Tenors, Basses and Baritones!
FESTIVAL OF VOICES – HOBART, JUNE/JULY 2023
We are asking for expressions of interest in the possibility of a group from Vocally Wild travelling to Hobart during late June/early July this year, to take part in a non-competitive festival of choirs; choirs attend from across the country. This Festival is well established, well attended and a joyful activity to take part in. Choirs get to sing in a welcoming, inclusive environment, perform in unusual settings and attend special festival events.
There are many choices. We will select the most suitable dates for us – i.e. between the 30th June to 9th July, and once we know how many will be attending, we’ll work out our best program – some of the choices include:
Choir’s return is pretty close – how good it will be to see you all again! Bill has selected some new, wonderful and interesting songs for the year so we hope you’re all looking forward to Term 1 with enthusiasm. See below how we’ll kick off on the 7th Feb, plus detail of our planned Welcome Back session!
We’re still on the look-out for a better quality, younger piano so our Piano fund-raising campaign will begin in earnest with an Easter Raffle! More detail of course to follow.
First term dates are below – the 2023 Diary will soon fill up so watch this space!
| Tuesday, 7th February | Choir resumes. 7.30 p.m. Beaumaris |
| Tuesday, 28th February | Welcome Party, prior to rehearsal. 6 p.m. |
| Tuesday, 4th April | Last rehearsal for Term 1 |
| Tuesday, 2nd June | Term 2 commences. Note, Tuesday, 25th May, no rehearsal, ANZAC Day. |
FIRST REHEARSAL – TUESDAY, 7TH FEBRUARY
As mentioned, Bill has been busy selecting music for us this year, resulting in a wonderful mixture of songs which we should all enjoy. For our first rehearsal we’ll start and finish with a couple of familiar pieces, so please bring Nos. 1 and 7 along in your folders, plus the ‘Crazy for You’ Gershwin Medley. Maggie will arrange printing of ‘On Broadway’ and ‘Due Pupille Amabili’ (listen to this on U-tube if you have a moment, it’s delightful) and these will be ‘available at the table’.
Order for the 7th February rehearsal:
1. This Little Light of Mine
2. Embraceable You
3. I Got Rhythm
4. They Can't Take That Away From Me
5. On Broadway (new)
6. Due Pupille Amabili (new)
7. A Place in the Choir.
Remember you can access the ‘Crazy for You’ practice recordings on the Website. If you have time, you may wish to familiarise yourself with the recordings and the sheet music beforehand, then we will be able to hopefully cover all these on our first evening!
The 'roll points' in the rehearsal recordings of Crazy for You (the Gershwin medley) are
- Embraceable You ~ 3:40-5:08 (bars 112-144)
- I Got Rhythm ~ 5:08-6:28 (144-207)
- They Can't Take That Away From Me ~ 8:07-9:28 (bars 284-303)
If you don’t have the music, Maggie will have copies on the table. Maggie does ask that if you have multiple copies of any sheet music, please return them to her – this will keep our printing costs down. For example, if you have forgotten to bring a certain song to rehearsal and borrow it from the table for the evening, please remember to replace it on your way out. Any Christmas Carols sheet music is also welcome.
WELCOME PARTY – TUESDAY, 28TH FEBRUARY, 6.00 P.M. BEAUMARIS HALL
To welcome everyone, especially our new members, we will be having a get-together at our Hall, (outside at the rear if the weather is good). Come along at 6.00 p.m. and then stay for our rehearsal. (Partners welcome too, of course - they may even like to stay to sing!). Food will be supplied, so just bring your own drinks/glasses. We’ll start our rehearsal as usual at 7.30 p.m. and polish off the rest of the food at ‘break time’ if there’s any left!
Don’t forget, bring your own cup, but we have mugs in the kitchen now, so go in and make a cuppa if you wish to.
MEMBERSHIP
Cherry will be sending out invoices for Semester Fees shortly – please note that there has been an increase of $40 per semester. If you have any queries regarding payment of Casual rates, please write to the Committee for approval. For your information, see “Frequently Asked Questions” on our Website. Go to Contact, then ‘Become a Member’. This should help.
Our membership is pretty healthy; however, we are happy to enrol a few more Vocally Wilders, so if you have friends who might enjoy being part of our choir, do ask them to come along and try us out. Maggie will continue providing Loan Folders for use on the night. It would be especially advantageous if we could entice a few more men to join the ranks of the Tenors, Basses and Baritones!
FESTIVAL OF VOICES – HOBART, JUNE/JULY 2023
We are asking for expressions of interest in the possibility of a group from Vocally Wild travelling to Hobart during late June/early July this year, to take part in a non-competitive festival of choirs; choirs attend from across the country. This Festival is well established, well attended and a joyful activity to take part in. Choirs get to sing in a welcoming, inclusive environment, perform in unusual settings and attend special festival events.
There are many choices. We will select the most suitable dates for us – i.e. between the 30th June to 9th July, and once we know how many will be attending, we’ll work out our best program – some of the choices include:
- Pop Up Programmes
- Amazing Festival Singers’ Lounge
- Big Sing Bonfire
- Flash Mob opportunity at MONA
- Opportunity to explore Hobart and Tasmania
The intention would likely be for a 5 day, 4 night visit, but of course many may wish to extend their stay for further travel. When we planned to attend in 2020 (the trip was aborted due to Covid), we were to fly and we had booked our own individual accommodation. However, if we get enough interest, we will look at this in more detail and a Touring Package may possibly be preferred. We are required to register, so we need to get an idea of numbers!
Do have a look at this website link – www.festivalofvoices.com - and when we return to rehearsals on 7th February, Cherry will have an expression of interest sheet at the table for you to add your name. At this stage Bill is available for us, so we would have fine accompaniment and direction!
TRAILER
The trailer, which holds our choir risers, will shortly be transformed! Rod Cripps and Russel are designing a conversion which will cover the trailer, including space for our audio/lighting equipment making it more convenient, safer and efficient. We no longer need to rent space for the trailer, as it will be housed by Russel, under cover. Thank you to Russel and Rod for their time and expertise spent on this ongoing project.
GREEN 'LION STAR' SANDWICH TRAY
This was left behind after one of our Carols rehearsals at the Brighton Town Hall. I will bring it to rehearsal on the 7th February, in case it belongs to one of you.
VICTORIAN WELSH CHOIR – SUNDAY, 19TH FEBRUARY, 2023 – 2.00 P.M.
Some of you may wish to attend this! To celebrate St. David’s Day, the Melbourne Recital Centre will present The Victorian Welsh Choir performing beautiful Welsh, English and Latin hymns, together with modern songs by Australian composer, Paul Jarman. All will be sung in four-part harmony. For more detail look up melbournerecital.com.au
No doubt many of you will soon be observing preparation for school – bet this role wouldn’t go down too well these days!
Enjoy the rest of the summer break.
See you soon.
Pat and Committee
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President) 0409 090 448 russelbarnes@gmail.com
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) juliesergienko99@gmail.com
Pat Lowry (Secretary) 0437 697 009 patlow5@bigpond.com
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary cherry@tunnock.info
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
crippsrm@bigpond.com 0458 669 883
Kerry Holmquest Holmquest.k@gmail.com
John Barlow john.barlow300@gmail.com
0411 193 792
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - DECEMBER, 2022
Mon, 5 Dec 2022Well, what a busy year - from our 4 week delayed start in March to last night’s Cricket Club gig; with one more to go!
So much has happened in our ‘Concert Ready’ choir's two semesters: ANZAC Day Service, welcoming Emma in May, Connor’s Run in September, involvement with Bayside Expo and our huge Spring Concert in October, Sandy Beach Friday Social Club Concert plus their 40th Birthday Concert, the Mayflower Uke Concert in November, Bayside Carols in the Park, Hampton Cricket Club in December – and Christmas Eve to go. Phew!
We acquired two pianos! Now we're down to one! We received a Bayside Council grant towards running our Spring Concert; we practised safe singing for most of the year; learnt a huge repertoire ranging from ‘Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy to ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ and all of this guided by our amazing M.D., Bill, and Accompanist, Emma.
Sincere thank you's go to Bill and Emma for their inspirational and enthusiastic leadership. Thanks also go to Russel together with ever reliable ‘roadie’ Rob Tunnock, helped by Allan Lowry and Algis Hutchison and to all who assist at rehearsal nights with equipment and chairs. The amount of equipment we have now is quite remarkable and it takes quite a lot of setting up for the larger engagements.
Thanks also to Carolyn McIntyre who keeps up supplies and looks after our ‘cuppa’ each week at rehearsals, assisted by Michele Connell when Carolyn is away.
For many years Lidia Maslin has looked after the ‘Carols in the Park’ silver and red scarves and made sure they were aired and folded when required. Lidia is handing this role on to someone else now, so if anyone wishes to be the ‘scarves’ guardian, please let me know. They are with me at the moment and I would be quite happy to hand pass them a new home! Kerry Holmquest is the proud 'keeper' of the colourful ones we wore at the Spring Concert!
MESSAGE FROM BILL
Vocally Wild Bunch.
It has been a great delight to work with each of you this year and to be a part of the considerable development and elevation of the standard of our choir. All best wishes to you and your families for a joyous holiday season and a safe and prosperous 2023.
Bill, Music Director.
AND FROM RUSSEL
Vocally Wild has gone from strength to strength in 2023. We started off a bit shakily then found our feet with Bill at the helm and Emma on the oars. The concert in the town hall in October was terrific, and the year culminated with Carols in the Park, and the Xmas party for the Cricket Club. Well done everyone. 2023 will be bigger and better!
Russel, President.
Only two Diary Dates remain, but Committee will meet up in mid-January and will be planning a ‘Welcome’ Social for some time early in Term 1, 2023. If anyone has any ideas or suggestions, please pass them on!
| DATE | DETAIL |
| Saturday, 24th December. 10.00 - 11.00 a.m. Santa arrives at around 10.30 a.m. |
Rotary Christmas Market, Tres Bit Oval, Jetty Road, Sandringham. Bill to accompany us on guitar. Booklet of carols available - come along if you have time! |
| Tuesday, 7th February, 2023 | Term 1 Commences, 7.30 p.m. Beaumaris. |
BAYSIDE CAROLS IN THE PARK
After an uncertain start in planning earlier in the year, this event proved to be a huge success after a weather-worrying morning! Thank you to everyone who took part and sang their hearts out – the choir looked and sounded wonderful and it was such a joy to be performing again with the Southern Area Concert Band - wasn’t Andrew Mathers’ replacement, Frank Ulm, an amazing last minute conductor? Special thanks from all of us to Bayside Councillor, Jo Samuel King and State M.P., James Newbury who both supported the full choir’s return to ‘Carols’ so enthusiastically.
Thank you again to Bill whose role in this year’s Carols was enormous; he took it all in his stride, inspiring and teaching us to sing at this level, plus working with a band conductor he had never met until the night! Thank you, too, to Emma who rehearsed all those songs and carols with us.
Here's a beautiful, happy, cheerful photo of a group of Second Sopranos at the Carols After-Party.
FEES 2023.
You will be hearing from Cherry in a little while, but this is a reminder that fees for 2023 will be $240 per Semester.
GENERAL
- If any non-members who sang with us at the Carols in the Park still have the on-loan folders and music, please could these be returned either to choir on our first day back in February, or dropped off to either Maggie or myself. (See email addresses at end of newsletter).
- If you happened to take home someone else’s folder from the Cricket Club, either let Maggie or I know, or bring it to Choir in February.
- 3 blue scarves left for sale - $25.
- We’re still looking for a ‘home’ for our choir risers trailer, so if anyone knows of an unused, safe, under cover space or garage please contact Russel.
- If new members are interested in the history of the Choir, or any other Choir information, photos, videos, songs,etc. have a look on the Vocally Wild website, vocallywild.org.au Also, keep a look out for Cherry’s Facebook posts, they are always fun and interesting. If you have trouble accessing the Member section of the website, please make contact.
This is an annual event where choirs from throughout Australia meet in Tasmania for a non-competitive joy-filled festival. Choirs get to sing in a welcoming, inclusive environment, perform in unusual settings and attend special festival events. There are Pop-Up programmes; singing in the Festival Singers’ Lounge; the Big Sing Bonfire; MONA Flash Mob, etc. not forgetting the wonderful Salamanca Market. All activities held in Hobart are usually within a reasonable walking distance.
A trip had been planned for 2020, which sadly had to be cancelled due to Covid, but we are now looking at the possibility of V.W. attending in 2023 for 3 or 4 nights. So, during the holidays have a look at the online details, and when we return in February we’ll ask for expressions of interest; there will be time to register and plan, if we decide to go.
https://festivalofvoices.com/act/touring-choirs-2023-registration/
JUDITH DURHAM WORDS
Has anyone heard or seen the new lyrics to an old tune?
Australians let us stand as one, upon this sacred land
A new day dawns, we’re moving on to trust and understand.
Combine our ancient history and cultures everywhere,
To bond together for all time, advance Australia fair.
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance Australia fair.
Australians let us all be one, with peace and harmony.
Our precious water, soil and sun, grant life for you and me.
Our land abounds in nature’s gifts to love, respect and share,
And honouring the Dreaming, advance Australia fair.
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance Australia fair.
Australians let us strive as one, to work with willing hands.
Our Southern Cross will guide us on, as friends with other lands.
While we embrace tomorrow’s world with courage, truth and care,
And all our actions prove the words, advance Australia fair,
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance Australia fair.
And when this special land of ours is in our children’s care,
From shore to shore forever more, advance Australia fair.
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance . . Australia . . fair.
A new day dawns, we’re moving on to trust and understand.
Combine our ancient history and cultures everywhere,
To bond together for all time, advance Australia fair.
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance Australia fair.
Australians let us all be one, with peace and harmony.
Our precious water, soil and sun, grant life for you and me.
Our land abounds in nature’s gifts to love, respect and share,
And honouring the Dreaming, advance Australia fair.
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance Australia fair.
Australians let us strive as one, to work with willing hands.
Our Southern Cross will guide us on, as friends with other lands.
While we embrace tomorrow’s world with courage, truth and care,
And all our actions prove the words, advance Australia fair,
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance Australia fair.
And when this special land of ours is in our children’s care,
From shore to shore forever more, advance Australia fair.
With joyful hearts then let us sing, advance . . Australia . . fair.
Words by Judith Durham. Additional Words by Kutcha Edwards, Lou Bennett, Camilla Cahnce and Bill Hauritz Based on words by P.D. McCormick (1878). Music by Peter Dodds McCormick
ROD CRIPPS' LETTER TO 'THE AGE'
You are most likely to find Rod's letter very interesting:
THERE ARE SO MANY TALENTED VOCALLY WILDERS!
Here are two stunning abstract medium varnished acrylic pieces by
Cecilia Stone,entitled 'Fran's blooms'. The textures are amazing.
and here's Jan Gooding's wonderful portrait of her beautiful 'Minnie'
Remember to kiss and cuddle a friend for Christmas ..
and join our National Treasure, Mr. Leunig and his friends, for a whimsical, musical and peaceful holiday!
THE VOCALLY WILD COMMITTEE WISHES YOU ALL A SAFE, WONDERFUL AND JOLLY CHRISTMAS
AND LOOKS FORWARD TO SEEING YOU ALL AGAIN IN 2023.
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
Kerry Holmquest
John Barlow
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
Kerry Holmquest
John Barlow
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - NOVEMBER, 2022
Sat, 19 Nov 2022Hello!
Our first rehearsal for ‘Carols’ went off so very well! Thank you all for attending. (See notes below.) If you’d like to find out a little more about the soloists who will be performing, see the online Bayside News - "This Week In Bayside" - Bayside City Council comms@news.bayside.vic.gov.au and read more about our Host/Singer (M.C.) Richard Thomas, Amalia Foy, Sienna Katelyn, the Amore Duet, Aydan Calafiore, Cassie McIvor and Oliver Mordaunt. Our M.D. is Ben Brazil assisted by John Turcio - both are also musicians.
TUESDAY REHEARSALS
For the next 3 rehearsals, please bring your 'Carols in the Park' sheet music. We will go over the SandyBeach songs after break this Tuesday, so bring these too. If you’re not doing the concert and don’t wish to stay after the break, that is fine, but of course remain if you are happy to sing these again:
As mentioned, the first rehearsal was terrific. Thanks indeed go to Bill and Andrew Mathers (SACB M.D.) and Russel for his excellent planning and setting up of equipment. Thanks also to Rob Tunnock and all of you who helped set up and who brought the tasty food for ‘morning coffee break’. Mosaic will provide food next week; we did have some unopened food from today, so this will be added to next week’s fayre! Don’t forget we will be rehearsing at our Beaumaris venue next Saturday.
Bill will confirm shortly if we are able to add another ‘band/choir Christmas song’ to the programme – watch this space!
Outfits for the Carols in the Park performance: All black – long sleeved tops, pants/skirts – please, no short skirts. Silver scarves will be handed out to the women, Red for the men. At the end of the performance, once you leave the stage, please return your scarves prior to going to the nearby Sports Club for the ‘after-party’!! Yes, this is on! More detail regarding parking, where to meet, location of Sports Club, etc. will be provided shortly.
OTHER CONCERTS - TERM 4
All those involved in the other four concerts during November and December will be contacted with final information prior to the event. If you wish to add your name to the lists, of course you are still welcome to do so.
A booklet of ‘Carols and Christmas Songs’ (which includes some alternative carols to those at Carols in the Park, plus some songs for youngsters), is being printed for use at the Hampton Cricket Club Party and the Rotary Christmas Market. We are so grateful that Bill has offered to be there with us on the 24th December, playing guitar on this occasion, so don’t worry, we’ll now be pitch perfect!!
FINAL TUESDAY REHEARSAL
On Tuesday, 6th December we’ll finish singing at 8.45 p.m., clear most of the chairs away and have a bit of social! Please bring a plate, some drink, or whatever you’d like to share. We have mugs for tea/coffee, but bring your own cup if you wish, glass if you are keen on having wine, etc. Carolyn and I will take all the V.W. mugs home to wash and return them for our first 2023 rehearsal.
FIRST REHEARSAL, 2023
The December Newsletter will announce any further news for 2023, but FYI Term 1, 2023 commences on Tuesday, 7th February. Our plan at this stage is to hold a ‘Welcome Back’ party early in Term 1. Details will be given early in the New Year.
LESLEY COLEMAN (WINNING) – ‘HOME TRUTHS’ - By Lesley
Russel and his business partner, Adrian Panozzo, Better Life Mobiles, supported the making of my short film about family violence, Home Truths. Here is a picture of the two of them with me on the night of our premiere screening for supporters and friends at the Palace Brighton Bay cinema on Thursday 3 November (photo by Vicki Jones, Big Eye Studio).
The film tells the story of eight survivors of family violence. Their stories are both universal and deeply personal.
You can watch the film on our website www.home-truths.com.au We are making it available free of charge for people to watch and use in training, counselling and education settings. An eBook is expected to be completed by the end of the year. This will provide further resources and information about identifying, coping with and surviving family violence. It is being written by a noted Melbourne counselling psychologist, Meredith Fuller OAM.
Thank you Lesley, Russel and Adrian.
PASHMINA SCARVES FOR SALE
Four 100% Cashmere Pashmina scarves - $25.00 each! These were extras purchased by our ‘travelling’ choir ‘Viva Melbourne’ for the aborted Choir Festival trip to Croatia in 2020 (Covid was the culprit!) so if you would like a beautiful scarf, fabulous blue/aqua colour, for yourself or to give as a Christmas present, they will be at Tuesday rehearsals for the next couple of weeks.
HEAVY METAL BAND – 'DISTURBED'
Have you heard Simon and Garfunkel’s song “The Sounds of Silence” by Disturbed? Powerful stuff. Here’s the link - https://youtube.com/watch?v=u9Dg-g7t2l4&feature=share See what you think!
That’s all for now! See you on Tuesday - enjoy everything - you've made a great start!
Please contact any committee member if you have any queries.
Kind regards,
Pat and Vocally Wild Committee
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
Our first rehearsal for ‘Carols’ went off so very well! Thank you all for attending. (See notes below.) If you’d like to find out a little more about the soloists who will be performing, see the online Bayside News - "This Week In Bayside" - Bayside City Council comms@news.bayside.vic.gov.au and read more about our Host/Singer (M.C.) Richard Thomas, Amalia Foy, Sienna Katelyn, the Amore Duet, Aydan Calafiore, Cassie McIvor and Oliver Mordaunt. Our M.D. is Ben Brazil assisted by John Turcio - both are also musicians.
| DATE | DETAIL |
| Monday, 21st November | Rehearsal, Mayflower, 2.00 p.m. |
| Thursday, 24th November | Mayflower Ukulele Concert, 2.30 p.m. |
| Friday, 25th November | SandyBeach 40th Birthday Concert, our set - 7.30 p.m. |
| Saturday, 26th November | Bayside Carols, 2nd rehearsal, Beaumaris, 10.00 a.m. |
| Saturday, 3rd December | Bayside Carols 3rd rehearsal, BTH 10.00 a.m. |
| Tuesday, 6th December | End of Term 4 |
| Saturday, 10th December | Bayside Carols, 4th rehearsal, BTH 10.00 a.m. |
| Sunday, 11th December | Full Bayside Carols rehearsal, BTH 4.00 – 7.00 p.m. |
| Tuesday, 13th December | Bayside Carols in the Park. Arrive no later than 6.30 p.m. |
| Saturday, 17th December | Hampton Cricket Club Christmas Party |
| Saturday, 24th December | Rotary Christmas Market, Sandringham, 10 – 11.00 a.m. |
TUESDAY REHEARSALS
For the next 3 rehearsals, please bring your 'Carols in the Park' sheet music. We will go over the SandyBeach songs after break this Tuesday, so bring these too. If you’re not doing the concert and don’t wish to stay after the break, that is fine, but of course remain if you are happy to sing these again:
- A Place in the Choir
- A Dream in Your Pocket
- Long and Winding Road
- This Little Light of Mine
- You’re The Voice.
- We may have enough time to sing ‘We Wish You A Merry Christmas’
As mentioned, the first rehearsal was terrific. Thanks indeed go to Bill and Andrew Mathers (SACB M.D.) and Russel for his excellent planning and setting up of equipment. Thanks also to Rob Tunnock and all of you who helped set up and who brought the tasty food for ‘morning coffee break’. Mosaic will provide food next week; we did have some unopened food from today, so this will be added to next week’s fayre! Don’t forget we will be rehearsing at our Beaumaris venue next Saturday.
Bill will confirm shortly if we are able to add another ‘band/choir Christmas song’ to the programme – watch this space!
Outfits for the Carols in the Park performance: All black – long sleeved tops, pants/skirts – please, no short skirts. Silver scarves will be handed out to the women, Red for the men. At the end of the performance, once you leave the stage, please return your scarves prior to going to the nearby Sports Club for the ‘after-party’!! Yes, this is on! More detail regarding parking, where to meet, location of Sports Club, etc. will be provided shortly.
OTHER CONCERTS - TERM 4
All those involved in the other four concerts during November and December will be contacted with final information prior to the event. If you wish to add your name to the lists, of course you are still welcome to do so.
A booklet of ‘Carols and Christmas Songs’ (which includes some alternative carols to those at Carols in the Park, plus some songs for youngsters), is being printed for use at the Hampton Cricket Club Party and the Rotary Christmas Market. We are so grateful that Bill has offered to be there with us on the 24th December, playing guitar on this occasion, so don’t worry, we’ll now be pitch perfect!!
FINAL TUESDAY REHEARSAL
On Tuesday, 6th December we’ll finish singing at 8.45 p.m., clear most of the chairs away and have a bit of social! Please bring a plate, some drink, or whatever you’d like to share. We have mugs for tea/coffee, but bring your own cup if you wish, glass if you are keen on having wine, etc. Carolyn and I will take all the V.W. mugs home to wash and return them for our first 2023 rehearsal.
FIRST REHEARSAL, 2023
The December Newsletter will announce any further news for 2023, but FYI Term 1, 2023 commences on Tuesday, 7th February. Our plan at this stage is to hold a ‘Welcome Back’ party early in Term 1. Details will be given early in the New Year.
LESLEY COLEMAN (WINNING) – ‘HOME TRUTHS’ - By Lesley
Russel and his business partner, Adrian Panozzo, Better Life Mobiles, supported the making of my short film about family violence, Home Truths. Here is a picture of the two of them with me on the night of our premiere screening for supporters and friends at the Palace Brighton Bay cinema on Thursday 3 November (photo by Vicki Jones, Big Eye Studio).
The film tells the story of eight survivors of family violence. Their stories are both universal and deeply personal.
You can watch the film on our website www.home-truths.com.au We are making it available free of charge for people to watch and use in training, counselling and education settings. An eBook is expected to be completed by the end of the year. This will provide further resources and information about identifying, coping with and surviving family violence. It is being written by a noted Melbourne counselling psychologist, Meredith Fuller OAM.
Thank you Lesley, Russel and Adrian.
PASHMINA SCARVES FOR SALE
Four 100% Cashmere Pashmina scarves - $25.00 each! These were extras purchased by our ‘travelling’ choir ‘Viva Melbourne’ for the aborted Choir Festival trip to Croatia in 2020 (Covid was the culprit!) so if you would like a beautiful scarf, fabulous blue/aqua colour, for yourself or to give as a Christmas present, they will be at Tuesday rehearsals for the next couple of weeks.
HEAVY METAL BAND – 'DISTURBED'
Have you heard Simon and Garfunkel’s song “The Sounds of Silence” by Disturbed? Powerful stuff. Here’s the link - https://youtube.com/watch?v=u9Dg-g7t2l4&feature=share See what you think!
That’s all for now! See you on Tuesday - enjoy everything - you've made a great start!
Please contact any committee member if you have any queries.
Kind regards,
Pat and Vocally Wild Committee
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
Kerry Holmquest
John Barlow
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
Kerry Holmquest
John Barlow
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - OCTOBER, 2022
Fri, 21 Oct 2022Firstly, a very warm welcome to our new members – an additional three new Vocally Wilders joined us this week. We hope you enjoy all the music and friendship with Vocally Wild. There’s plenty of fun and activity ahead as we lead up to Christmas, so if you can join us for all or some of these concerts, please pop the dates in your diaries! (Bayside Carols rehearsal dates/times to be confirmed). Remember, no choir on Tuesday, 1st November – Cup Day.
SPRING CONCERT
We received many comments on the‘joy’ felt by our audience
and performers last Sunday and
wasn’t it wonderful to have a
full-house with audience filling
up the ‘dress circle’
What a day: 52 Vocally Wilders in ‘full voice’, wonderful musicians in ‘full flight’ and led by our creative and completely ‘full-on’ Music Director, Bill.
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
| DATE | DETAIL |
| Tuesday 1st November | No Choir – Melbourne Cup Day |
| Saturday, 19th November - TBC | Bayside Carols in Park 1st rehearsal |
| Thursday, 24th November | Mayflower Ukulele Concert – small group of 12 |
| Friday, 25th November | SandyBeach 40th Birthday Concert |
| Saturday, 26th November – TBC | Bayside Carols in Park 2nd rehearsal |
| Saturday, 26th November – TBC | Bayside Carols in Park 3rd rehearsal |
| Saturday, 3rd December - TBC | Bayside Carols in Park 4th rehearsal |
| Tuesday, 6th December | End of Term 4 |
| Sunday, 11th December – TBC | Final Bayside Carols rehearsal, evening |
| Tuesday, 13th December | Bayside Carols in the Park |
| Saturday, 17th December | Hampton Cricket Club Christmas Party |
| Saturday, 24th December | Rotary Christmas Market, Sandringham |
SPRING CONCERT
In Russell’s words, “Our Spring Concert was brilliant!”
We received many comments on the‘joy’ felt by our audience
and performers last Sunday and
wasn’t it wonderful to have a
full-house with audience filling
up the ‘dress circle’
at the Brighton Town Hall?
What a day: 52 Vocally Wilders in ‘full voice’, wonderful musicians in ‘full flight’ and led by our creative and completely ‘full-on’ Music Director, Bill.
Emma – magnificent; audience was dumb-struck, the Bayside Mayor brought to tears. Our MC had never heard the Andante maestoso from the ‘Pas de Deux’ played so well.
Charlotte – brilliant; such poise; such flair; watching those creative, elegant dancing fingers was mesmerising.
Jamie – at one with his Viola; such young talent and we were so fortunate to witness Jamie’s premiere performance of his own composition, ‘Caprice for
Viola and Cello’ with his proud sister playing by his side.
Bill –thank you for leading us so enthusiastically and energetically; your confidence that we could perform at a concert such as this, after so long in the wilderness, was inspiring. Did Bill go home and put his feet up after this huge day? No, he rushed off to 3MBS to present his Sunday Late programme and even gave a ‘shout’ out to Vocally Wild at its commencement!
Rob, Stuart and Allan and Rod took many photos/videos. Photos will be uploaded to the V.W.website shortly and 6 videos by Rob and 2 by Allan are already there. Just go to vocallywild.org.au Home Page and click Video Performances. If you have some, please send along any clear, full choir photos, as I’m looking for one, in landscape setting, which can be to be resized into a long, narrow picture, to add to the website rotating Banner.
John Smith, loved and valued past V.W. member, was in the audience and I know he was delighted that ‘A Place in the Choir’ was in our repertoire. John brought this song to our attention in the first place!
TUESDAY REHEARSALS
In addition to the ‘Crazy for You’ Medley, please bring any carols sheets you have at home for the following:
Charlotte – brilliant; such poise; such flair; watching those creative, elegant dancing fingers was mesmerising.
Jamie – at one with his Viola; such young talent and we were so fortunate to witness Jamie’s premiere performance of his own composition, ‘Caprice for
Viola and Cello’ with his proud sister playing by his side.
Bill –thank you for leading us so enthusiastically and energetically; your confidence that we could perform at a concert such as this, after so long in the wilderness, was inspiring. Did Bill go home and put his feet up after this huge day? No, he rushed off to 3MBS to present his Sunday Late programme and even gave a ‘shout’ out to Vocally Wild at its commencement!
Rob, Stuart and Allan and Rod took many photos/videos. Photos will be uploaded to the V.W.website shortly and 6 videos by Rob and 2 by Allan are already there. Just go to vocallywild.org.au Home Page and click Video Performances. If you have some, please send along any clear, full choir photos, as I’m looking for one, in landscape setting, which can be to be resized into a long, narrow picture, to add to the website rotating Banner.
John Smith, loved and valued past V.W. member, was in the audience and I know he was delighted that ‘A Place in the Choir’ was in our repertoire. John brought this song to our attention in the first place!
TUESDAY REHEARSALS
In addition to the ‘Crazy for You’ Medley, please bring any carols sheets you have at home for the following:
- Hallelujah Chorus - Parts recordings for Hallelujah Chorus are now on the website – go to Members, Songs.
- Mary’s Boy Child
- The First Nowell
- Away in a Manger
- Hark the Herald
- Joy to the World
- I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day
Once the full list of songs for ‘Carols in the Park’ is known, sheet music will be provided for you.
CONCERTS - TERM 4
Sheets will be on the table from Tuesday, for you to add your names if you wish to sing at these Concerts:
Mayflower – Ukulele Concert, led by Ron Leigh (Ron’s Music). Thursday, 24th November, 2.30 p.m. (up to 12 singers). (Rehearsal likely Monday, 21st TBC). Patty Chaplin to advise on songs, but will all be well-known oldies! Song sheets to be provided.
SandyBeach 40th Birthday Concert. Friday, 25th November, 6.30 to 9.00 p.m. with Bill and Emma. Russel to take audio equipment. Bill to advise as to which songs we perform. SandyBeach will advise the timing of our 20 minute timeslot.
Carols in the Park. Tuesday, 13th December (Dendy Park, Brighton). Dates and venue for rehearsals to be advised. Bill leads us. All music to be provided. (See below)
Hampton Cricket Club Christmas Party. Saturday, 17th December with Bill and Emma. Carols booklet to be produced.
Rotary Market, Sandringham – Trey Bit Oval, Jetty Road. Saturday, 24th December. 10.00 to 11.00 a.m. whilst Santa visits - a Capella. Carols booklet.
BAYSIDE CAROLS IN THE PARK
Yes, Hallelujah indeed, the full-blown Carols celebration, as it was in 2019, has been reinstated. Many decisions need to be made by Bayside Council and Fruitbowl in the next few weeks, but we will endeavour to assist in any way we can. In fact, today, Russel met with Fruitbowl to give the organisers the benefit of our past experience and he reports that planning is underway. Rest assured, the event will be the best it can be! It will be amazing to get together again with our friends at Mosaic and the Southern Area Concert Band – like old times!
BAYSIDE HEALTH AGEING EXPO
This was an excellent, well attended community event and genuine thanks go to Judy Page, Bayside Council for her support of all Bayside community groups and for promoting our Spring Concert.
The Vocally Wild table displayed many items, brochures and photographs from Vocally Wild over the years, including the very first ‘Carols’ programme from 2002 held at Brighton Town Hall. This event was the ideal opportunity to hand out Membership Forms, Spring Concert flyers and chat about the choir with visitors. The Chatty Café was cheerfully set up outside in its signature ‘yellow’ and it was good to see past member Penny as a Chatty Café organiser. Penny also came to our Concert, a good loyal supporter! Visitors were treated to free coffees and barbecue sausages. It was a busy day and the two Neil Diamond tribute concerts were a sell-out. Thank you to all the Vocally Wilders who looked after our table.
TEA BREAK AT REHEARSALS
May I take this opportunity to say thank you to Carolyn who brings along milk and sets up our tea break each week. She leaves the kitchen spick and span afterwards too!
Remember, we now have many mugs in the cupboard, so if you forget to bring your own, you are welcome to select one from the very assorted shapes and colours we now have! Please either wash your mug afterwards and place it on the t-towel in the cupboard, so it will be dry the next week, or take it home and bring it next week. If this system doesn’t work too well, a roster might be necessary, so mugs will be taken home to our dish-washers (human or mechanical!)
THANK YOU to Emma for bringing along the delicious chocolate mud cake last week – golly, it went in a flash!!
3MBS VICTORIAN YOUNG PERFORMER AWARD
A group of us will be going along to the Abbotsford Convent to support Jamie in his next ‘gig’ on Sunday, 23rd October for his appearance in the Final of the 2022 3MBS Victorian Young Performer Award. 2.30 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Chapel, Abbotsford Convent, 2.00 p.m. Bookings via TryBooking. Come and join us!
Kind regards from
Pat Lowry and all Vocally Wild Committee
Sheets will be on the table from Tuesday, for you to add your names if you wish to sing at these Concerts:
Mayflower – Ukulele Concert, led by Ron Leigh (Ron’s Music). Thursday, 24th November, 2.30 p.m. (up to 12 singers). (Rehearsal likely Monday, 21st TBC). Patty Chaplin to advise on songs, but will all be well-known oldies! Song sheets to be provided.
SandyBeach 40th Birthday Concert. Friday, 25th November, 6.30 to 9.00 p.m. with Bill and Emma. Russel to take audio equipment. Bill to advise as to which songs we perform. SandyBeach will advise the timing of our 20 minute timeslot.
Carols in the Park. Tuesday, 13th December (Dendy Park, Brighton). Dates and venue for rehearsals to be advised. Bill leads us. All music to be provided. (See below)
Hampton Cricket Club Christmas Party. Saturday, 17th December with Bill and Emma. Carols booklet to be produced.
Rotary Market, Sandringham – Trey Bit Oval, Jetty Road. Saturday, 24th December. 10.00 to 11.00 a.m. whilst Santa visits - a Capella. Carols booklet.
BAYSIDE CAROLS IN THE PARK
Yes, Hallelujah indeed, the full-blown Carols celebration, as it was in 2019, has been reinstated. Many decisions need to be made by Bayside Council and Fruitbowl in the next few weeks, but we will endeavour to assist in any way we can. In fact, today, Russel met with Fruitbowl to give the organisers the benefit of our past experience and he reports that planning is underway. Rest assured, the event will be the best it can be! It will be amazing to get together again with our friends at Mosaic and the Southern Area Concert Band – like old times!
BAYSIDE HEALTH AGEING EXPO
This was an excellent, well attended community event and genuine thanks go to Judy Page, Bayside Council for her support of all Bayside community groups and for promoting our Spring Concert.
The Vocally Wild table displayed many items, brochures and photographs from Vocally Wild over the years, including the very first ‘Carols’ programme from 2002 held at Brighton Town Hall. This event was the ideal opportunity to hand out Membership Forms, Spring Concert flyers and chat about the choir with visitors. The Chatty Café was cheerfully set up outside in its signature ‘yellow’ and it was good to see past member Penny as a Chatty Café organiser. Penny also came to our Concert, a good loyal supporter! Visitors were treated to free coffees and barbecue sausages. It was a busy day and the two Neil Diamond tribute concerts were a sell-out. Thank you to all the Vocally Wilders who looked after our table.
TEA BREAK AT REHEARSALS
May I take this opportunity to say thank you to Carolyn who brings along milk and sets up our tea break each week. She leaves the kitchen spick and span afterwards too!
Remember, we now have many mugs in the cupboard, so if you forget to bring your own, you are welcome to select one from the very assorted shapes and colours we now have! Please either wash your mug afterwards and place it on the t-towel in the cupboard, so it will be dry the next week, or take it home and bring it next week. If this system doesn’t work too well, a roster might be necessary, so mugs will be taken home to our dish-washers (human or mechanical!)
THANK YOU to Emma for bringing along the delicious chocolate mud cake last week – golly, it went in a flash!!
3MBS VICTORIAN YOUNG PERFORMER AWARD
A group of us will be going along to the Abbotsford Convent to support Jamie in his next ‘gig’ on Sunday, 23rd October for his appearance in the Final of the 2022 3MBS Victorian Young Performer Award. 2.30 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Chapel, Abbotsford Convent, 2.00 p.m. Bookings via TryBooking. Come and join us!
Kind regards from
Pat Lowry and all Vocally Wild Committee
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
Kerry Holmquest
John Barlow j
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
Kerry Holmquest
John Barlow j
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - SEPTEMBER, 2022
Fri, 23 Sep 2022Dear Vocally Wild Community,
While the crew calmly attempt to steer the Good Ship “Carols” back on course, it’s 'full steam ahead' for Show Boat “Spring Concert” on 16th October!!
We resume choir for Term 4 on Tuesday, 4th October. Please have your songs in order, ready to shine!
The following Monday,10th and Tuesday,11th, Bill will be in Mildura assessing students but will be flying back late on Tuesday afternoon and should arrive at Beaumaris by around 8.00 p.m. Emma is happy to lead us until Bill arrives. Bill is hoping you will agree to a slightly extended rehearsal, until 10.00 p.m. on this night.
FOR YOUR DIARIES
BAYSIDE HEALTHY AGEING EXPO – Sat., 8th October, 11 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. Brighton Town Hall
The Bayside Healthy Ageing team have organised an amazing Seniors Festival during October, offering a diverse calendar of events, this Expo being just one of them! Pick up one of their Brochures from the Library or any Community Centre – Vocally Wild’s Concert gets a great mention on Page 9. Vocally Wild will have a table at this Expo so bring your family and join everyone for a fun and informative day:
Also, you may like to look at Bayside Council’s Healthy Ageing Guide – it is chocker-block full of information about Clubs, Centres, activities, etc. Vocally Wild gets a gig here too!
On the same day there is a U3A Open Day at the Brighton Courthouse, Carpenter Street, from 12.30 to 4.00 p.m. Did you know that U3A is an international movement, started in France at the Faculty of Social Sciences in Toulouse in 1973?
VOCALLY WILD CONCERT – BRIGHTON TOWN HALL, SUN., 16TH OCTOBER – 3.00 P.M.
As we approach the pointy end of our preparation, please practise as often as you can. We have two rehearsals left, but we’re hoping to have a short, additional rehearsal, at the Town Hall on Saturday, 15th October, at 5.00 p.m. Please check and see if you can make it at that time – we’ll ask for a show of hands on Tuesday, 4th October. It would be an ideal opportunity for us to familiarise ourselves with the venue and make decisions re placement of ourselves and equipment. We are fortunate that we have access to the Hall on the Saturday, so we can take sound/lighting equipment. This will make it much less stressful the following day when set up starts at 1.30 p.m.
Programme: has gone for printing, now we need people to fill the Hall!
Ticketing: Please be proactive and ask your friends and relatives to make their TryBookings as soon as they can. There will be cash ticketing at the door, but for our catering and seating requirements, we really would like pre-booking to be the priority.
Advertising: much has been happening! See promotion of our Concert in Bayside’s Healthy Ageing Seniors Festival Brochure, plus on line - link https://www.bayside.vic.gov.au/explore-bayside/events/vocally-wild-choirs-spring-concert
What to Wear: All black – long sleeved top, pants/skirt (if skirt, please wear black tights/stockings), black shoes/socks. We will all be supplied with very colourful spring-like scarves – these will be handed out on Tuesday, 4th October at rehearsal. If you aren’t able to make this rehearsal, but are committed to singing in the concert, we will have some available the following week.
Bring:
Singers: You’ll be advised of time to arrive closer to the date, but helpers will be asked to arrive from 1.30 p.m.
Helpers: There will be a sheet at 4th October rehearsal. If you are able to offer a family member as a ‘helper’ that would be wonderful. We will need people in the foyer to welcome the audience as they arrive, check their tickets, show them into the hall and help them to seats if necessary. As the hall fills up (hopefully !) some active people might be encouraged to go upstairs to the balcony. We have one non-singing helper so far - Margaret Cox (Don’s wife), who has kindly offered to assist with the afternoon tea arrangements, but we will need several more for this important task. Russel will welcome additional help in setting up the lighting and sound equipment. Chairs and Trestles will need to be set out, but we are hoping to be able to bring out as many chairs and trestles as possible from under the stage the evening before.
TWO RECENT EVENTS
PIANO
We now have two pianos at the Hall! During the break we were able to collect Irina Konstantinova and Sergey Konstantinov’s famous piano and have it delivered. We are extremely grateful to Irina and Sergey for their generosity and to Emma and Bill for making it happen. Russel will now arrange for our ‘new’ piano to be tuned a couple of times and we will make sure Emma is happy with the sound before we remove the ‘old’ one. Here is a little history about our ‘new’ piano:
Irina and Sergey are close friends with Marilyn Rowe, AM OBE, former Director of the Australian Ballet School, who brought them to Australia in 2000. Marilyn gave them the piano, and they have now given it to us!
Irina Konstantinova trained at the prestigious Perm Ballet School in Russia before joining the USSR State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. During her time as a Principal Artist there, Irina danced the lead or solos roles in many famous ballets including Romeo and Juliet, The Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, La Sylphide, Don Quixote and more.
After receiving a laureate from the Grand Prix International Competition in Baku (USSR), Irina accepted a position with the Kirov Ballet (later The Mariinsky Theatre) in St Petersburg. Irina also studied at the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet where she graduated as a fully qualified teacher of the Vaganova method before joining the Australian Ballet School in 2001 as a Classical Teacher and Curriculum Development Assistant.
Sergey Konstantinov studied ballet at the prestigious Vaganova Academy in St. Petersburg and upon graduating, danced with the Ashkabad Opera and Ballet Theatre. Sergey was invited to join the Kirov Ballet (later Mariinsky Theatre) after winning second prize at the Grand Prix International Competition in Baku (USSR).
During his 11 years at The Mariinsky, Sergey performed soloist roles in famous ballets including Swan Lake, Giselle, Nutcracker, Don Quixote, Romeo and Juliet and more. He has additionally worked with acclaimed choreographers such as Ratmansky and Neumiere and has toured Europe, the USA and Asia.
Marilyn Rowe. Between 1980 and 2015, to mark her contributions to ballet in Australia, Marilyn Rowe was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), two Green Room Awards and an Adams Award, the first Victorian Honour Role for Women, which honours her contribution to Victoria and the Nation, the Lord Mayor's Certificate of Commendation presented by the City of Melbourne for her significant contribution to the arts, honoured with a plaque by being included in the Walk of Fame as part of the Melbourne Arts Walk, and the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Australian Dance Awards. Marilyn Rowe House, the residence of The Australian Ballet School, was named in her honour in 2015
We have assured Irina and Sergey that we will take the greatest care of our amazing piano and have thanked them for their generosity.
VOCALLY WILD HAPPENINGS
Stuart McIntyre, OAM.
On the 7th September, Carolyn
and Stuart McIntyre, together with their sons James and Simon, and Stuart's sister, had a very memorable visit to Government House.
Stuart had been awarded the Queen’s Birthday Honour ‘Order of Australia Medal’ for ‘Services to the Community of Brighton’.
They attended the impressive ceremony in the Ballroom followed by Morning Tea on the Terrace Lawn, and by the photograph, it wasn’t just ‘tea’ being offered!
Stuart, of course, has been a loyal Vocally Wild supporter for nigh on 18 years, and has sung with us on many pop-up occasions!
Well done Stuart, and of course Carolyn. We’re very proud of you.
A Day Of Song with Claire Patti by Cherry Tunnock
On a cold Saturday in August I drove down to Queenscliff for a Singing Workshop. It was run by the marvellously talented Claire Patti who has the voice of an angel and can play many instruments from French horn to harp. It was a full day with a friendly group of locals.
William Mulholland. Well done William for your mammoth leading role in “SkyLight” with the Malvern Theatre Company – the largest role yet we understand. We are now very pleased that you’re free from treading the boards to return to Choir!
Facebook: Have you been seeing Cherry’s brilliant Vocally Wild Facebook posts each Sunday? They are entertaining, informative and fun!
OTHER HAPPENINGS
FRED SMITH
Who remembers the amazing Fred Smith? Many of us sang at his ‘Sea Shanty’ concert, a few years ago! Well, Fred has announced a Melbourne presentation of his “Sparrows of Kabul” show. Details: 7.30 p.m. Thursday, 10th November at the Kingston Arts Centre, Moorabbin. Fred will be performing with Carl Pannuzzo, Holly Downes and the Kabul Birds Band. Bookings open on the 3rd October. kingstonarts.com.au
A year ago Fred returned from working on the Kabul evacuation and had to commence a 2-week hotel quarantine stint in Adelaide. He was wired up, not sleeping much but did some writing – including a poem ‘Sparrows of Kabul’. See You Tube, Fred Smith. With his Sparrows of Kabul show he has sought to tell the story in a way that softens, rather than hardens the heart.
PHANTOM AND JOSH PETERMAN SET FOR MELBOURNE RETURN
You know how we love to boast that singing with Vocally Wild is the best step up to a person’s stellar musical career! Well, we do know what happened to Josh Peterman! What a joy it was to witness his professionalism and charisma during one of our wonderful Carols in the Park productions! Josh as you are all aware, has had much success in the West End, London and now will star as the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera at the Melbourne Arts Centre, from 30th October. Bookings: 1300 182 183 or au.thephantomoftheopera.com He will be brilliant!
CHATTY CAFÉ
If you feel like having a chatter, pop in to the Brighton Library, Wilson Street, on Wednesday, 12th October – 2.30 p.m.
AND FOR SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT!
The majestic River Red Gum was recently voted Australia’s favourite tree. River’s Creek Wetlands, Victoria, Barhah-Millewa Forest (either side of the river Murray) is the home to the largest River Red Gum forest in the world. (Yorta Yorta country). Stunning.
Song Lyrics. If you’re looking for words to our repertoire on the Vocally Wild website, go to Home Page (use password first of course), pull down list under Members, then Songs. The screen will then have a box at the left hand side – at the bottom of the box it will say Lyrics. Just click there, and behold!!!!
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
While the crew calmly attempt to steer the Good Ship “Carols” back on course, it’s 'full steam ahead' for Show Boat “Spring Concert” on 16th October!!
We resume choir for Term 4 on Tuesday, 4th October. Please have your songs in order, ready to shine!
1) You're the Voice
2) Don't Dream It's Over
3) Goodnight, Sweetheart
4) Thank You for the Music
5) Lean On Me
6) Jerusalem Morning
7) Bridge Over Troubled Water
8) This Little Light of Mine
9) Siyahamba
2) Don't Dream It's Over
3) Goodnight, Sweetheart
4) Thank You for the Music
5) Lean On Me
6) Jerusalem Morning
7) Bridge Over Troubled Water
8) This Little Light of Mine
9) Siyahamba
10) A Place in the Choir
The following Monday,10th and Tuesday,11th, Bill will be in Mildura assessing students but will be flying back late on Tuesday afternoon and should arrive at Beaumaris by around 8.00 p.m. Emma is happy to lead us until Bill arrives. Bill is hoping you will agree to a slightly extended rehearsal, until 10.00 p.m. on this night.
FOR YOUR DIARIES
| DATE | DETAIL |
| Saturday, 8th October | Bayside Healthy Ageing Expo, B.T.H. |
| Tuesday, 4th October | Term 4 commences |
| Saturday, 15th October Sunday, 16th October |
Final Rehearsal, 5 p.m. BTH. (TBC) Annual Concert, Brighton Town Hall, 3.00 pm |
| Tuesday 1st November | No Choir – Melbourne Cup Day |
| Tuesday, 6th December | Last Rehearsal for Term 4 |
| Saturday, 24th December | Sing Carols at Hampton Cricket Club, early eve. |
BAYSIDE HEALTHY AGEING EXPO – Sat., 8th October, 11 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. Brighton Town Hall
The Bayside Healthy Ageing team have organised an amazing Seniors Festival during October, offering a diverse calendar of events, this Expo being just one of them! Pick up one of their Brochures from the Library or any Community Centre – Vocally Wild’s Concert gets a great mention on Page 9. Vocally Wild will have a table at this Expo so bring your family and join everyone for a fun and informative day:
- Exhibitor Hall: 22 community groups taking part.
- MC – Carol O’Halloran. She will direct people to the Expo stands.
- Main Stage: Two Neil Diamond tribute shows, 1.00 - 2.00 p.m., 3.00 - 4.00 p.m. Cost $5.00. Bookings: healthyageing@bayside.vic.gov.au or phone 9599 4373.
- Coffee cart, sweet treats provided by CWA Bayside.
- Sausage sizzle provided by Brighton North Rotary.
- Also on site, Bayside U3A Open Day and Chatty Café.
Also, you may like to look at Bayside Council’s Healthy Ageing Guide – it is chocker-block full of information about Clubs, Centres, activities, etc. Vocally Wild gets a gig here too!
On the same day there is a U3A Open Day at the Brighton Courthouse, Carpenter Street, from 12.30 to 4.00 p.m. Did you know that U3A is an international movement, started in France at the Faculty of Social Sciences in Toulouse in 1973?
VOCALLY WILD CONCERT – BRIGHTON TOWN HALL, SUN., 16TH OCTOBER – 3.00 P.M.
As we approach the pointy end of our preparation, please practise as often as you can. We have two rehearsals left, but we’re hoping to have a short, additional rehearsal, at the Town Hall on Saturday, 15th October, at 5.00 p.m. Please check and see if you can make it at that time – we’ll ask for a show of hands on Tuesday, 4th October. It would be an ideal opportunity for us to familiarise ourselves with the venue and make decisions re placement of ourselves and equipment. We are fortunate that we have access to the Hall on the Saturday, so we can take sound/lighting equipment. This will make it much less stressful the following day when set up starts at 1.30 p.m.
Programme: has gone for printing, now we need people to fill the Hall!
Ticketing: Please be proactive and ask your friends and relatives to make their TryBookings as soon as they can. There will be cash ticketing at the door, but for our catering and seating requirements, we really would like pre-booking to be the priority.
Advertising: much has been happening! See promotion of our Concert in Bayside’s Healthy Ageing Seniors Festival Brochure, plus on line - link https://www.bayside.vic.gov.au/explore-bayside/events/vocally-wild-choirs-spring-concert
What to Wear: All black – long sleeved top, pants/skirt (if skirt, please wear black tights/stockings), black shoes/socks. We will all be supplied with very colourful spring-like scarves – these will be handed out on Tuesday, 4th October at rehearsal. If you aren’t able to make this rehearsal, but are committed to singing in the concert, we will have some available the following week.
Bring:
- Folders: The normal V.W. folder, with black facing the audience. You will have received the Concert order of music, so please have your music/words in place.
- Water bottle
Singers: You’ll be advised of time to arrive closer to the date, but helpers will be asked to arrive from 1.30 p.m.
Helpers: There will be a sheet at 4th October rehearsal. If you are able to offer a family member as a ‘helper’ that would be wonderful. We will need people in the foyer to welcome the audience as they arrive, check their tickets, show them into the hall and help them to seats if necessary. As the hall fills up (hopefully !) some active people might be encouraged to go upstairs to the balcony. We have one non-singing helper so far - Margaret Cox (Don’s wife), who has kindly offered to assist with the afternoon tea arrangements, but we will need several more for this important task. Russel will welcome additional help in setting up the lighting and sound equipment. Chairs and Trestles will need to be set out, but we are hoping to be able to bring out as many chairs and trestles as possible from under the stage the evening before.
TWO RECENT EVENTS
- Friday Social Club at SandyBeach Centre was hugely successful, and much praised. Thank you to Miranda at SandyBeach Centre for making us so welcome. Thanks to all singers for attending, and indeed special thanks go to Bill and Emma who volunteered their time and were such a hit!! SandyBeach would like us to make a return visit!
- Connor’s Run was once again another very successful event. Thank you to all singers who braved the chill, turned up early and sang so well. Special thanks to Cherry and Rob who arrived at 6.30 for set up, with a huge amount of equipment, and special thanks again to Bill and Emma, who are indeed such treasures!
-
- Steve Hooker (Olympic gold medallist) and his cute little boys were walking past just as we were about to start and Emma played some Christmas music for them and let the littlie try out the keyboard.
- One of the runners decided to have a break and join the choir, sharing my music, for one song. Turned out she used to be in the Southern Area Concert Band. Didn’t get a chance to find out what instrument she played before she took off running again.
- Just as Rob was turning his movie camera to include some runners passing, a little girl amongst the group did a spectacular somersault for our benefit - beautifully caught on the camera.
- Connor’s BGS mates were running as usual in colourful budgie smugglers - bit of eye candy there!
PIANO
We now have two pianos at the Hall! During the break we were able to collect Irina Konstantinova and Sergey Konstantinov’s famous piano and have it delivered. We are extremely grateful to Irina and Sergey for their generosity and to Emma and Bill for making it happen. Russel will now arrange for our ‘new’ piano to be tuned a couple of times and we will make sure Emma is happy with the sound before we remove the ‘old’ one. Here is a little history about our ‘new’ piano:
Irina and Sergey are close friends with Marilyn Rowe, AM OBE, former Director of the Australian Ballet School, who brought them to Australia in 2000. Marilyn gave them the piano, and they have now given it to us!
Irina Konstantinova trained at the prestigious Perm Ballet School in Russia before joining the USSR State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. During her time as a Principal Artist there, Irina danced the lead or solos roles in many famous ballets including Romeo and Juliet, The Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, La Sylphide, Don Quixote and more.
After receiving a laureate from the Grand Prix International Competition in Baku (USSR), Irina accepted a position with the Kirov Ballet (later The Mariinsky Theatre) in St Petersburg. Irina also studied at the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet where she graduated as a fully qualified teacher of the Vaganova method before joining the Australian Ballet School in 2001 as a Classical Teacher and Curriculum Development Assistant.
Sergey Konstantinov studied ballet at the prestigious Vaganova Academy in St. Petersburg and upon graduating, danced with the Ashkabad Opera and Ballet Theatre. Sergey was invited to join the Kirov Ballet (later Mariinsky Theatre) after winning second prize at the Grand Prix International Competition in Baku (USSR).
During his 11 years at The Mariinsky, Sergey performed soloist roles in famous ballets including Swan Lake, Giselle, Nutcracker, Don Quixote, Romeo and Juliet and more. He has additionally worked with acclaimed choreographers such as Ratmansky and Neumiere and has toured Europe, the USA and Asia.
Marilyn Rowe. Between 1980 and 2015, to mark her contributions to ballet in Australia, Marilyn Rowe was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE), two Green Room Awards and an Adams Award, the first Victorian Honour Role for Women, which honours her contribution to Victoria and the Nation, the Lord Mayor's Certificate of Commendation presented by the City of Melbourne for her significant contribution to the arts, honoured with a plaque by being included in the Walk of Fame as part of the Melbourne Arts Walk, and the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Australian Dance Awards. Marilyn Rowe House, the residence of The Australian Ballet School, was named in her honour in 2015
We have assured Irina and Sergey that we will take the greatest care of our amazing piano and have thanked them for their generosity.
VOCALLY WILD HAPPENINGS
Stuart McIntyre, OAM.
On the 7th September, Carolyn
and Stuart McIntyre, together with their sons James and Simon, and Stuart's sister, had a very memorable visit to Government House. Stuart had been awarded the Queen’s Birthday Honour ‘Order of Australia Medal’ for ‘Services to the Community of Brighton’.
They attended the impressive ceremony in the Ballroom followed by Morning Tea on the Terrace Lawn, and by the photograph, it wasn’t just ‘tea’ being offered!
Stuart, of course, has been a loyal Vocally Wild supporter for nigh on 18 years, and has sung with us on many pop-up occasions!
Well done Stuart, and of course Carolyn. We’re very proud of you.
A Day Of Song with Claire Patti by Cherry Tunnock
On a cold Saturday in August I drove down to Queenscliff for a Singing Workshop. It was run by the marvellously talented Claire Patti who has the voice of an angel and can play many instruments from French horn to harp. It was a full day with a friendly group of locals.
We started with learning some Puirt-a-beul (Scottish Mouth Music) which was extremely challenging and our attempts created a lot of laughter. Moving on we learnt two beautiful songs in parts - Wild Mountain Thyme and Sweet Carnlough Bay. In between singing all of us had brought food to contribute to morning tea and lunch and we thoroughly enjoyed chatting around the groaning tables of deliciousness. Midway through the afternoon a surprise was sprung upon us and we all decamped to the local pub to give the patrons a flash mob experience. What a hoot! We were surprisingly well received considering the manager had to mute the football and horseracing on the big screens there. Lots of cheers, applause and drinks all round to celebrate such a fun day together. |
William Mulholland. Well done William for your mammoth leading role in “SkyLight” with the Malvern Theatre Company – the largest role yet we understand. We are now very pleased that you’re free from treading the boards to return to Choir!
Facebook: Have you been seeing Cherry’s brilliant Vocally Wild Facebook posts each Sunday? They are entertaining, informative and fun!
OTHER HAPPENINGS
FRED SMITH
Who remembers the amazing Fred Smith? Many of us sang at his ‘Sea Shanty’ concert, a few years ago! Well, Fred has announced a Melbourne presentation of his “Sparrows of Kabul” show. Details: 7.30 p.m. Thursday, 10th November at the Kingston Arts Centre, Moorabbin. Fred will be performing with Carl Pannuzzo, Holly Downes and the Kabul Birds Band. Bookings open on the 3rd October. kingstonarts.com.au
A year ago Fred returned from working on the Kabul evacuation and had to commence a 2-week hotel quarantine stint in Adelaide. He was wired up, not sleeping much but did some writing – including a poem ‘Sparrows of Kabul’. See You Tube, Fred Smith. With his Sparrows of Kabul show he has sought to tell the story in a way that softens, rather than hardens the heart.
PHANTOM AND JOSH PETERMAN SET FOR MELBOURNE RETURN
You know how we love to boast that singing with Vocally Wild is the best step up to a person’s stellar musical career! Well, we do know what happened to Josh Peterman! What a joy it was to witness his professionalism and charisma during one of our wonderful Carols in the Park productions! Josh as you are all aware, has had much success in the West End, London and now will star as the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera at the Melbourne Arts Centre, from 30th October. Bookings: 1300 182 183 or au.thephantomoftheopera.com He will be brilliant!
CHATTY CAFÉ
If you feel like having a chatter, pop in to the Brighton Library, Wilson Street, on Wednesday, 12th October – 2.30 p.m.
AND FOR SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT!
The majestic River Red Gum was recently voted Australia’s favourite tree. River’s Creek Wetlands, Victoria, Barhah-Millewa Forest (either side of the river Murray) is the home to the largest River Red Gum forest in the world. (Yorta Yorta country). Stunning.
WEBSITE:
www.vocallywild.org.au
Song Lyrics. If you’re looking for words to our repertoire on the Vocally Wild website, go to Home Page (use password first of course), pull down list under Members, then Songs. The screen will then have a box at the left hand side – at the bottom of the box it will say Lyrics. Just click there, and behold!!!!
Here's to keeping the dream alive!
Kind regards,
Pat and Committee
Pat and Committee
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Kerry Holmquest
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
John Barlow
Geoff Peters
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Kerry Holmquest
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
John Barlow
Geoff Peters
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - AUGUST, 2022
Sat, 20 Aug 2022Firstly, a huge thank you to Bill, Emma and 22 Vocally Wilders for coming along to SandyBeach to perform for the Friday Social Club. We are extremely grateful to Bill and Emma for volunteering their time and “raising us up” to be able to sing well with confidence at our first concert for some time. It was a lovely day, there was a happy, grateful audience, and I know we singers felt the joy! I wasn’t able to stay afterwards, but Bill remained behind to chat and dance! Bill happened to have known both the “Beach Daddies” (Peter Sullivan and Adrian Scott - former Air Supply and LRB keyboard player) for many years! Miranda, from SandyBeach sent a kind message of thanks saying the audience had enjoyed our performance immensely. By the way, Bill reports that the ‘Beach Daddies’ were also very impressed with the choir!!
We’ve received many positive comments about Vocally Wild recently; how we sound, mentioning the good positive vibes from our Tuesday rehearsals. Thank you all for your positivity; it seems we are now getting past the stressful Covid years and can look forward to a busy and exciting future.
Please read later in the Newsletter Russell’s ‘poetic’ review of Charlotte Miles’ first solo professional performance, and check out our concert planning! We really have a busy time ahead, so here is an update of our Diary – note a new ‘gig has been added - we have been invited to sing once again at the Hampton Cricket Club Christmas Party on the evening of Saturday, 17th December.
`
MEMBERSHIP (Cherry)
Many thanks to the majority of choir members who promptly paid the extra $40 fee invoiced to see us through to the end of the year. For those of you who haven’t yet paid, please do so. If you require your invoice to be re-sent, please contact Cherry – (Cherry has a new email address).
Regarding Membership, another 10 members would be ideal, so if you know anyone who would like to come along to a Vocally Wild rehearsal as a ‘try out’, please make contact.
CONCERT
Plans are now well on the way.
Invitations: We will be sending invitations and flyer out shortly. A flyer will be sent separately, via email, which you may wish to send on to friends and family. Cherry will bring a hard copy for you all to rehearsal. We’ll get extras printed for taking to community noticeboards, shops, etc. and for handing out at the Healthy Ageing Expo. (Details later). Any help in sending or distributing these flyers will be gratefully received. We are hoping to have a ‘full house’ at the Brighton Town Hall on Sunday, 16th October!!
Catering: food will be purchased, so ‘sigh of relief’ you won’t be receiving a request to ‘bring a plate’!!!
Seating: Chairs will be provided for choir to sit on during instrumental performances, so you won’t need to stand for the whole concert! If you happen to have any easy to handle ‘fold up’ chairs, please let us know. Seating for choir will be on the stage and on the floor area in front of the stage.
Music: We will be holding our music folders for the concert. Fourteen songs!! We’re currently looking at a suitable, cheap, light and easy to handle folder, so if you have any brilliant ideas, we’d be very happy to hear them. These will be our ‘performance’ folders should we be able to find something suitable.
Helpers: We will be taking the sound and lighting equipment to Brighton Town Hall on Saturday, 15th, and setting up the equipment from 1.30 p.m. on Concert day, so if you are willing to help the day before, or come early on the Sunday, please let us know. The Hall is being used in the morning, which makes the set up timing crucial, as we need to ensure all chairs are in place plus trestles for food, the equipment and lighting. A sheet will be at choir for names of helpers.
More information about the concert will appear soon - In the meantime, enjoy our rehearsing! We are awaiting some music from the USA so we can add “Let Me Be There in Your Morning” as a tribute to Olivia Newton John to our repertoire. Perhaps look it up on Utube – it’s a catchy, country and western style piece. As you know, we already have our tribute to Judith Durham.
CONNOR’S RUN
Thank you to those who have put their names down for this powerful and feel-good event. Bill and Emma will be there, for which we’re very grateful. Please consider coming along – it is fun, different, and very worthwhile.
Details: Sunday, 11th September. 7.30 a.m. set up and we’ll start singing as the first runners fly past! Meeting place: outside South Melbourne Life Saving Club, Middle Park. Susie Forbes will be out bike riding the course today and will send some photos of our location, which I can forward on to anyone who would like them.
Helpers: Russel won’t be able to come his year, so if anyone would like to help with the set-up, please step forward. Cherry, her hubby Rob and I will be loading our cars on the Tuesday rehearsal night prior to the 11th, so many hands will make light work. There is plenty to do on the morning of the 11th, so please offer help if you can. We won’t be taking the choir risers this year. If anyone has an easy to erect marquee which we can borrow, please let me know. We really would like to keep Emma (and the equipment) warm and out of the wind/rain if possible! We singers will just brave the wind, rain, storm and tempest as usual, or maybe this year it will be sunshine and pleasant blue skies!
CHARLOTTE MILES (Charlotte's professional debut by Russel) – Melbourne Recital Centre
Charlotte was magnificent
She walked onto the stage and sat alongside the conductor, with her cello, in front of 100 musicians
Centre stage. The focus of everyone's attention
She seemed so at home there, in the place she so naturally belonged
Then the music started. Beautiful music from mostly strings and also other instruments
Charlotte's cello dominated the performance. Magical playing, beautiful timing.
Charlotte brought the music from the composer's score to our ears, in a way which was joyfully absorbing
And when it was over, the concert was continued by the audience. We applauded, the orchestra applauded, the conductor beamed and Charlotte bowed.
A great event from an orchestra of talented musicians, making beautiful music.
And Charlotte at the centre of it all.
BAYSIDE HEALTHY AGEING SENIORS EXPO – Saturday, 8th October – 11.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m.
Vocally Wild will share a table at this Expo with another community group. (22 community groups will take part). This is an ideal opportunity to present our choir to the community via membership forms, concert flyers, photographs, photo books, etc. (if anyone wishes to lend their photo book from one of the Italy trips, it would be wonderful). We feel sure that many visitors will be interested to learn about our upcoming Concert!
Some other attractions will be:
CHOIR RISERS/TRAILER
We currently house the Risers and Trailer in Mentone at a rental of $600 per year. We are wondering if you know anyone who has some spare, under cover, safe space for us to store the trailer at a minimal, or zero, cost if possible. Please contact Russel if you have any ideas.
MAGGIE AND ROD’S OUTBACK ADVENTURE
Veteran Car Club of Australia – Brisbane to Broome Veteran Car Rally
Forty three veteran cars departed Caboolture Historical Village on the 18th July. The photo is of Maggie in all her wonderful glory on the 6th day at Barkly Homestead – the half way mark. These cars are all over 100 years old! They were due to arrive in Broome on 11th August, but there’s no further news from Maggie yet!! What an adventure for these enthusiasts, driving across the top of Australia in their ancient vehicles.
Here is Maggies report, from half-way:
We are now in Kununurra having completed 3,431 kms and with 1,076 kms to go in the old car. Not without issues! A bad tyre needing changing for a new one in Mt. Isa and Rod worked on bearings in that wheel. Moving on, we sailed along until Daly Waters, when the crew decided to improve the sloppy steering – with success. Onward we went until we discovered a water leak at Timber Creek. Rectified that but it was short lived and required more water in the radiator every 25 kms until we reached Kununurra. More work to be done tomorrow on a rest day!! No rest for the wicked!!! I think we still have our senses of humour!!! I had to tow another car that had broken down on the road into Kununurra today. All part of the fun. It’s hot and humid and the best place to be is in the pool! Enjoy the cool weather while you can. Keep up the singing. I’m afraid I have not looked at the music since Orange!
Amazing they are! Let’s hope the final leg went without mishap and their continuing adventures are going well. I guess that anyone or anything over 100 years old would definitely need “Tinkering, Topping up and Towing” at some stage – so Maggie and Rod, you’re very impressive!
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
'Skylight' - written by David Hare, directed by Michelle Swann.
26th August to 10th September.
William Mulholland is a regular member of V.W. but we haven't seen him recently as he has been preparing for his role as 'Tom Sergeant' in Malvern Theatre Company's 'Skylight'. If you're interested in seeing this brilliant play.
Tickets: The early bird priced tickets will probably have gone now, but if you wish to attend contact aumalverntc sales.ticketsearch.com or malverntheatre.com.au Venue: 29 Burke Road, Malvern East.
'All the very best William' from us all. (Do we still say ‘break a leg’?)
Jerry Wong in Solo – Free Piano Concert – Friday, 26th August, 8.00 to 8.30 p.m.
The piano concert is by Jerry Wong at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, (where Emma is an accompanist). Entry is free, but you must be registered. Programme: Love and Longing: Music of Liszt, Frank Liszt. Chapelle de Guillaume Tell, Au lac de Wallenstadt, Vallee d’Obermann. https://www.temporubato.com.au/tempo-concerts/friday-jerry-wong
LAST BUT NOT LEAST - from Russel
Do you have a speaker we can use? We need several of
these to use as foldback speakers. They need to be active speakers, i.e. they plug into the mains. They are sometimes called PA speakers.
Best regards,
Pat and Committee
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
We’ve received many positive comments about Vocally Wild recently; how we sound, mentioning the good positive vibes from our Tuesday rehearsals. Thank you all for your positivity; it seems we are now getting past the stressful Covid years and can look forward to a busy and exciting future.
Please read later in the Newsletter Russell’s ‘poetic’ review of Charlotte Miles’ first solo professional performance, and check out our concert planning! We really have a busy time ahead, so here is an update of our Diary – note a new ‘gig has been added - we have been invited to sing once again at the Hampton Cricket Club Christmas Party on the evening of Saturday, 17th December.
| DATE | DETAIL |
| Sunday, 11th September – 7.30 a.m. | Connor’s Run |
| Tuesday, 13th September | Last Rehearsal for Term 3. |
| Tuesday, 4th October | Term 4 commences |
| Saturday, 8th October- 11.00 a.m. – 3.00 p.m. | Healthy Ageing Expo, Brighton Town Hall |
| Sunday, 16th October – 3.00 p.m. | Annual Concert, Brighton Town Hall |
| Tuesday 1st November | No Choir – Melbourne Cup Day |
| November and December | Carols - Saturday rehearsals (TBC) |
| Tuesday, 6th December | Last Rehearsal for Term 4 |
| Possibly Tuesday, 13th December | Carols in the Park (TBC) |
| Saturday, 17th December – early evening | Hampton Cricket Club Xmas Party |
MEMBERSHIP (Cherry)
Many thanks to the majority of choir members who promptly paid the extra $40 fee invoiced to see us through to the end of the year. For those of you who haven’t yet paid, please do so. If you require your invoice to be re-sent, please contact Cherry – (Cherry has a new email address).
Regarding Membership, another 10 members would be ideal, so if you know anyone who would like to come along to a Vocally Wild rehearsal as a ‘try out’, please make contact.
CONCERT
Plans are now well on the way.
Invitations: We will be sending invitations and flyer out shortly. A flyer will be sent separately, via email, which you may wish to send on to friends and family. Cherry will bring a hard copy for you all to rehearsal. We’ll get extras printed for taking to community noticeboards, shops, etc. and for handing out at the Healthy Ageing Expo. (Details later). Any help in sending or distributing these flyers will be gratefully received. We are hoping to have a ‘full house’ at the Brighton Town Hall on Sunday, 16th October!!
Catering: food will be purchased, so ‘sigh of relief’ you won’t be receiving a request to ‘bring a plate’!!!
Seating: Chairs will be provided for choir to sit on during instrumental performances, so you won’t need to stand for the whole concert! If you happen to have any easy to handle ‘fold up’ chairs, please let us know. Seating for choir will be on the stage and on the floor area in front of the stage.
Music: We will be holding our music folders for the concert. Fourteen songs!! We’re currently looking at a suitable, cheap, light and easy to handle folder, so if you have any brilliant ideas, we’d be very happy to hear them. These will be our ‘performance’ folders should we be able to find something suitable.
Helpers: We will be taking the sound and lighting equipment to Brighton Town Hall on Saturday, 15th, and setting up the equipment from 1.30 p.m. on Concert day, so if you are willing to help the day before, or come early on the Sunday, please let us know. The Hall is being used in the morning, which makes the set up timing crucial, as we need to ensure all chairs are in place plus trestles for food, the equipment and lighting. A sheet will be at choir for names of helpers.
More information about the concert will appear soon - In the meantime, enjoy our rehearsing! We are awaiting some music from the USA so we can add “Let Me Be There in Your Morning” as a tribute to Olivia Newton John to our repertoire. Perhaps look it up on Utube – it’s a catchy, country and western style piece. As you know, we already have our tribute to Judith Durham.
CONNOR’S RUN
Thank you to those who have put their names down for this powerful and feel-good event. Bill and Emma will be there, for which we’re very grateful. Please consider coming along – it is fun, different, and very worthwhile.
Details: Sunday, 11th September. 7.30 a.m. set up and we’ll start singing as the first runners fly past! Meeting place: outside South Melbourne Life Saving Club, Middle Park. Susie Forbes will be out bike riding the course today and will send some photos of our location, which I can forward on to anyone who would like them.
Helpers: Russel won’t be able to come his year, so if anyone would like to help with the set-up, please step forward. Cherry, her hubby Rob and I will be loading our cars on the Tuesday rehearsal night prior to the 11th, so many hands will make light work. There is plenty to do on the morning of the 11th, so please offer help if you can. We won’t be taking the choir risers this year. If anyone has an easy to erect marquee which we can borrow, please let me know. We really would like to keep Emma (and the equipment) warm and out of the wind/rain if possible! We singers will just brave the wind, rain, storm and tempest as usual, or maybe this year it will be sunshine and pleasant blue skies!
CHARLOTTE MILES (Charlotte's professional debut by Russel) – Melbourne Recital Centre
Charlotte was magnificent
She walked onto the stage and sat alongside the conductor, with her cello, in front of 100 musicians
Centre stage. The focus of everyone's attention
She seemed so at home there, in the place she so naturally belonged
Then the music started. Beautiful music from mostly strings and also other instruments
Charlotte's cello dominated the performance. Magical playing, beautiful timing.
Charlotte brought the music from the composer's score to our ears, in a way which was joyfully absorbing
And when it was over, the concert was continued by the audience. We applauded, the orchestra applauded, the conductor beamed and Charlotte bowed.
A great event from an orchestra of talented musicians, making beautiful music.
And Charlotte at the centre of it all.
BAYSIDE HEALTHY AGEING SENIORS EXPO – Saturday, 8th October – 11.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m.
Vocally Wild will share a table at this Expo with another community group. (22 community groups will take part). This is an ideal opportunity to present our choir to the community via membership forms, concert flyers, photographs, photo books, etc. (if anyone wishes to lend their photo book from one of the Italy trips, it would be wonderful). We feel sure that many visitors will be interested to learn about our upcoming Concert!
Some other attractions will be:
- MC – Carol O’Halloran.
- Two Neil Diamond Tribute performances (1.00 p.m. and 3.00 p.m.)
- Sausage sizzle provided by Brighton North Rotary.
- Coffee cart, sweet treats, provided by CWA Bayside.
CHOIR RISERS/TRAILER
We currently house the Risers and Trailer in Mentone at a rental of $600 per year. We are wondering if you know anyone who has some spare, under cover, safe space for us to store the trailer at a minimal, or zero, cost if possible. Please contact Russel if you have any ideas.
MAGGIE AND ROD’S OUTBACK ADVENTURE
Veteran Car Club of Australia – Brisbane to Broome Veteran Car Rally
Forty three veteran cars departed Caboolture Historical Village on the 18th July. The photo is of Maggie in all her wonderful glory on the 6th day at Barkly Homestead – the half way mark. These cars are all over 100 years old! They were due to arrive in Broome on 11th August, but there’s no further news from Maggie yet!! What an adventure for these enthusiasts, driving across the top of Australia in their ancient vehicles.
Here is Maggies report, from half-way:
We are now in Kununurra having completed 3,431 kms and with 1,076 kms to go in the old car. Not without issues! A bad tyre needing changing for a new one in Mt. Isa and Rod worked on bearings in that wheel. Moving on, we sailed along until Daly Waters, when the crew decided to improve the sloppy steering – with success. Onward we went until we discovered a water leak at Timber Creek. Rectified that but it was short lived and required more water in the radiator every 25 kms until we reached Kununurra. More work to be done tomorrow on a rest day!! No rest for the wicked!!! I think we still have our senses of humour!!! I had to tow another car that had broken down on the road into Kununurra today. All part of the fun. It’s hot and humid and the best place to be is in the pool! Enjoy the cool weather while you can. Keep up the singing. I’m afraid I have not looked at the music since Orange!
Amazing they are! Let’s hope the final leg went without mishap and their continuing adventures are going well. I guess that anyone or anything over 100 years old would definitely need “Tinkering, Topping up and Towing” at some stage – so Maggie and Rod, you’re very impressive!
WHAT’S HAPPENING?
'Skylight' - written by David Hare, directed by Michelle Swann.
26th August to 10th September.
William Mulholland is a regular member of V.W. but we haven't seen him recently as he has been preparing for his role as 'Tom Sergeant' in Malvern Theatre Company's 'Skylight'. If you're interested in seeing this brilliant play.
Tickets: The early bird priced tickets will probably have gone now, but if you wish to attend contact aumalverntc sales.ticketsearch.com or malverntheatre.com.au Venue: 29 Burke Road, Malvern East.
'All the very best William' from us all. (Do we still say ‘break a leg’?)
Jerry Wong in Solo – Free Piano Concert – Friday, 26th August, 8.00 to 8.30 p.m.
The piano concert is by Jerry Wong at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, (where Emma is an accompanist). Entry is free, but you must be registered. Programme: Love and Longing: Music of Liszt, Frank Liszt. Chapelle de Guillaume Tell, Au lac de Wallenstadt, Vallee d’Obermann. https://www.temporubato.com.au/tempo-concerts/friday-jerry-wong
LAST BUT NOT LEAST - from Russel
WE NEED MORE SPEAKERS FOR OUR CONCERT AT BRIGHTON TOWN HALL.
Do you have a speaker we can use? We need several of
these to use as foldback speakers. They need to be active speakers, i.e. they plug into the mains. They are sometimes called PA speakers.
Best regards,
Pat and Committee
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
John Barlow
Geoff Peters
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
John Barlow
Geoff Peters
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - JULY, 2022
Mon, 11 Jul 2022How quickly the holidays passed and here we are in Term 3. A 'warm' welcome is extended to you all, especially our recent new members. We hope you're enjoying choir and looking forward to a stimulating and exciting semester. It was heartwarming to see so many of you at rehearsal last Tuesday on such a chilly night.
Vocally Wild is on a 'Membership Drive'!! To secure the viability of the choir, we need to be proactive in this area. We are a 'performance choir' receiving excellent direction and musical accompaniment, so if you have friends or acquaintances who love singing, mention that they are welcome to come along for a complimentary visit on a Tuesday night. Please contact Cherry, or suggest to your contacts that they visit the Vocally Wild Website for further information.
Look what Cherry's been up to: Amazing!!
Vocally Wild is on a 'Membership Drive'!! To secure the viability of the choir, we need to be proactive in this area. We are a 'performance choir' receiving excellent direction and musical accompaniment, so if you have friends or acquaintances who love singing, mention that they are welcome to come along for a complimentary visit on a Tuesday night. Please contact Cherry, or suggest to your contacts that they visit the Vocally Wild Website for further information.
FOR YOUR DIARY
| DATE | DETAIL |
| Friday, 19th August - 1.00 p,m. | Sing for Friday Social Club, SandyBeach |
| Sunday, 11th September - 7.30 to 11.30 a.m. | Connor’s Run |
| Tuesday, 13th September | Last Rehearsal for Term 3. |
| Tuesday, 4th October | Term 4 commences |
| Saturday 8th October | Bayside Healthy Ageing Expo |
| Sunday, 16th October - 3.00 p.m. | Annual Concert, Brighton Town Hall,. |
| Tuesday 1st November | No Choir – Melbourne Cup Day |
| November and December | Carols - Saturday rehearsals (TBC) |
| Tuesday, 6th December | Last Rehearsal for Term 4 |
| Tuesday, 13th December ? | Carols in the Park (TBC) |
A little more about some of the dates above:
SANDYBEACH CENTRE FRIDAY SOCIAL CLUB - Friday, 19th August. 1.00 p.m.
We are looking for singers to perform to a small group at the Social Club. As this will be one of our local community offerings, on a smaller than usual scale, we will be unaccompanied and sailing under our own steam! We'll sing a selection of about 7 or 8 items from our repertoire; hopefully uncomplicated pieces, but we know the Social Club members will love every minute!
So if you're happy to 'give it a go' and join in the fun, please pop your name on the sheet Cherry will place at the rear of the hall. Thank you! The sheet will be available each week.
BAYSIDE HEALTHY AGEING EXPO - Saturday, 8th October
This will be at the Brighton Town Hall and Vocally Wild will have an information table. We we will have more detail closer to the time but we hope that some of our members might like to volunteer to be at the venue to chat to visitors and promote the choir. Bayside Healthy Ageing are to present many activities during the month of October, so watch out for the information as it appears.
CONNOR'S RUN - Sunday, 11th September
It will be an early start - to catch those quick off the mark runners as they flash past! 7.30 a.m. We'll be singing on and off during the three hours to 11.30 - the faithful and loyal stragglers need to be seranaded too!! We are so grateful that Bill and Emma will be directing us. Taking part in this event is always a rewarding experience, so we hope many of you will be happy to come along..
Cherry will have a sheet on a table at the rear of the hall for you to indicate your willingness to take part. Thank you! The sheet will be available each week.
VOCALLY WILD'S 'SPRING' CONCERT - BRIGHTON TOWN HALL - Sunday, 16th October.
We are starting to plan this 'musical treat' for the community! For those of you who are new to Vocally Wild, we were awarded a small grant by Bayside Council to arrange a 'renewal' event post Covid, and our concert's focus is to 'celebrate the choir's return to singing after a couple of years of disruption and to showcase young, local, and exceptionally talented musicians'.
The 90-minute programme will commence at 3.00 p.m., followed by afternoon tea. As the full running costs will not be covered by the grant, there will be an entry fee of $15.00 (Adult) and $8.00 (12-16 yrs), Children free. The event should conclude before 6.00 p.m. As the date draws closer we will arrange for most ticket sales via Try Booking but other arrangements will be made for ticketing if necessary.
Further details will emerge in due course.
Cherry will have a sheet on a table at the rear of the hall for you to indicate your willingness to take part. Thank you! The sheet will be available each week.
ADMINISTRATION
- Fees Refund Policy: With effect from today's date, the Committee regrets to point out that once fees have been paid for the Semester, there will be no refunds given. We remind members of Vocally Wild's many running costs which are constant and need to be paid in advance and it is not financially viable, these days, for us to return funds.
- Website: Please note that the Committee has purchased a SSL Certificate for the Harmony Site (Vocally Wild Website) which makes it a safe and secure https place. You will see the 'lock' symbol at the top of the page. By the way, if you are having trouble accessing anything on the website, please contact me on 0437 697 009 and I will try to assist you.
Look what Cherry's been up to: Amazing!!
Rising : 2022 Festival Singing in the Night Chorus – 26 May to 18 June at
The Wilds, Sidney Myer Music Bowl beside the Rinky Dink (ice rink)
by Cherry Tunnock
In March I joined a group of 120 singers from all over Melbourne to rehearse every Saturday at the Australian Institute of Music in King Street.
What a fun challenge to learn ten 80’s & 90’s songs completely by heart with many tricky harmonies and riffs for all three parts – Rolling in the Deep, Time After Time, Don’t Stop Me Now, Dancing Queen, Dancing on My Own, Sweet Dreams, Say My Name, I Wanna Dance with Somebody, Rosanna, In Your Eyes – under the enthusiastic instruction of talented music directors, Alex and Elisha.
Our first nervously exciting performance was at St Paul’s Cathedral and it was live streamed to Fed Square. We wore beautiful wool felt costumes designed by RMIT Fashion Design students. Next was a private thank you performance at the Bowl for staff and families of Royal Melbourne Hospital. Then followed 12 more performances at the Music Bowl where, in groups of 25 on each side of the ice rink per night, we belted out and danced our way through each set. This was no standing still choir and I was thrilled to finally be able to move and sing to my heart’s content.
Afterwards a few of us would head to the Up-High Bar for hot Negroni’s, from where this photo was taken, and we’d be mobbed by people overwhelmed with emotion at the joy we had brought to them. Young men were even asking for selfies with us – hilarious! So many laughs, so many steps on my FitBit (between 18,000 – 23,000 per night). This was truly the most enormous and thrilling experience that I’ll never forget.
MORNING MELODIES - VICTORIAN COLLEGE OF THE ARTS - Monday,1st August.
Some of you may be interested in this. Graduating V.C.A. students of 2020 to 2022 will explore the great love songs, exciting choruses and powerful ballads that have defined musical theatre over a hundred years. For further information, and to book, please access www.artscentremelbourne.com.au
And finally, what a splendid language we have!!
Kindest regards,
Pat and all the Committee.
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
Kerry Holmquest
John Barlow
Geoff Peters
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - JUNE, 2022
Fri, 17 Jun 2022Firstly, may I give you the great news that Bayside Carols in the Park will be taking place this December and Vocally Wild will be performing? Heard from Robert (the horse’s mouth) so life as we knew it is starting to return!
Secondly, thank you to Emma who played two wonderful pieces for us on her birthday three weeks ago. Wow, Emma, we all loved it and appreciate what you did very much.
This Tuesday, 21st June, will be our last rehearsal for this Semester when our plan is to:
1) Finish "Leaps and Bounds"
2) Refresh/rehearse "Bridge Over Troubled Waters"
3) Refresh/rehearse "Long and Winding Road"
4) Refresh/rehearse "House of the Rising Sun"
5) Refresh/rehearse "Lean on Me"
Term three commences on Tuesday, 12th July. (See Diary dates below). Date for the Carols is usually the 2nd Tuesday in December with four weekly rehearsals on Saturday mornings prior to the performance. All dates/venues to be confirmed of course but this is just to give you very early advice).
Maggie will be away after the holidays until late September, so Cecilia and Teresa will look after the music and visitor/new member folders until she returns. Thank you Cecilia and Teresa – we know you’ll do a great job! Russel returns late June. All the very best to all of you who plan to travel, or are already away. Enjoy safe and happy journeys.
FOR YOUR DIARIES
| DATE | DETAIL |
| Tuesday, 21st June | Last Rehearsal for Term 2. |
| Tuesday, 12th July | Term 3 commences |
| Friday, 19th August | Sing for Friday Social Club, SandyBeach |
| Sunday, 11th September | Connor’s Run |
| Tuesday, 13th September | Last Rehearsal for Term 3. |
| Tuesday, 4th October | Term 4 commences |
| Sunday, 16th October | Annual Concert, Brighton Town Hall, 3 p.m... |
| Tuesday 1st November | No Choir – Melbourne Cup Day |
| November and December | Carols - Saturday rehearsals (TBC) |
| Tuesday, 6th December | Last Rehearsal for Term 4 |
| Possibly Tuesday, 13th December | Carols in the Park (TBC) |
SANDYBEACH FRIDAY SOCIAL CLUB – Friday, 19th August
Miranda Turner, who used to be a Vocally Wilder, works for SandyBeach and has invited us to sing for the SandyBeach Friday Social Club. We’re looking for about 15 people to come along to sing about half a dozen songs for this wonderful community group, so if you’re interested, please fill in the form we will have on the table at rehearsals. It will be there for next Tuesday night and after the holidays. Our time to sing should be 1.00 p.m., but this will be confirmed. As a community choir, we like to do some of these events, so hopefully you can join us.
CONNOR’S RUN – Sunday, 11th September - Sth Melbourne Lifesaving Club, Middle Park
During Term 3 will be inviting you to put your names on the list for this amazing event. Challenging starting time – 7.30 a.m. til 11.30 a.m. and often it’s chilly and windy, but this is a very worthwhile charity to commit to. For those of you who are not familiar with Connor’s Run, it is a fun run to raise funds for research into brain cancer in children. Vocally Wild has participated in the entertainment part of this annual event several times now and 2022 will be its 10th Anniversary. Bill and Emma have very kindly offered to direct and play for us.
VOCALLY WILD ANNUAL CONCERT – Sunday, 16th October. 3.00 p.m.
Next term we will be starting to plan seriously for this event, which promises to be extra-ordinary, what with our singing, of course, but we’re also showcasing some very special young talented guest performers. We will have much to say about this concert next term, but in the meantime we need to think about our invitation lists, etc. so if you know of someone you feel would like a special invitation, please let me know. Bayside Council will be directly involved - they have granted us $1,000 towards our ‘recovery’ concert. We will be able to give you more information shortly.
Regarding our performance – the programme will be developed next term and the Committee is very keen for us to be able to sing confidently without needing to refer to our music and words, if this is at all possible! I’ll shortly be sending out the words for all of our repertoire, if this will help. In the meantime, don’t forget that many of our songs have our ‘parts’ recordings on the Vocally Wild website, which should help us enormously. Bill suggests we sing along with the recordings, following the music. (Remember that most of the recordings don’t include the piano intro., they begin a few bars before the singing starts).
If you're unfamiliar with the Vocally Wild website, here is how to access the recordings:
·Open the website – vocallywild.org.au
·Sign in with your name and password.
·Go to the Dropdown heading ‘Members’
·Drop down and click on ‘Songs’.
You will see them all there either on Page 1 or Page 2 (in alphabetical order). (If you have a problem with your password, please let Cherry or I know -
IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM CHERRY (MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY)
It’s nearly our six-monthly membership renewal time. Watch out for your Invoice for the next Semester, which will be emailed during the last week of June. Please note that this payment will secure your membership for our very welcome return to singing at Bayside Carols in the Park.
Fees: I am currently singing in the “Wilds” choir with the membership secretary from Melbourne Singers of Gospel, a very similarly run choir to ourselves, with usually around 100 members …a little less since Covid, also like us. We’ve had some lovely discussions together. They also use the Harmony software for their website. Interestingly, she was shocked that their fees are nearly double ours … $280 per Semester!
See you on Tuesday and we hope you all have a wonderful winter break.
Kindest regards,
Pat and all the Committee
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
John Barlow
Geoff Peters
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
John Barlow
Geoff Peters
Vocally Wild Choir proudly acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and we pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - MAY, 2022
Sat, 21 May 2022Hello all,
Firstly, many of you will know that we now have a wonderful new piano accompanist – Emma Lippa.
Emma has played with us for the past two weeks and we are loving the music!! A huge welcome to Vocally Wild, Emma, from all of us. Emma and Bill have hit the ground running and, together with our very loyal choir members, they are proving that Vocally Wild has now well and truly bounced back from the past two years or so of uncertainty and is now ‘Up and Singing’ again with joy and confidence.
Emma, who lives locally, has had a stellar career – twenty eight years with the Bolshoi Ballet, twenty years with the Australian Ballet during which times she attained many high awards, travelled extensively and worked with numerous luminaries from the dance world. Her full Profile is on the Vocally Wild website under the dropdown headings “About” or “Home.” Please read this impressive resume of her career – Emma has much more, of course, to tell! There are some delightful photographs there too.
Some flyers will be placed in community areas in the next few days advising that Vocally Wild is well and truly up and singing again and that our membership is currently open for new male and female singers (soprano, alto, tenor, bass/baritone). (See Cherry’s report below).
We are letting people know how much we are enjoying singing with Bill and Emma; that we have a varied repertoire and how we’re looking forward to our exciting concert in October. At present there is no waiting list, so we are encouraging past members, those considering returning, or anyone interested, to come along and try us out. If you would like a flyer to forward on to friends, please let me know on Pat Lowry, or contact Cherry on cherry@cham.com.au
Now here is the latest news. I won’t repeat the Diary dates at this stage as there is no change, apart from:
However, we do hope soon to be able to put some very special dates in for our Christmas ‘Carols in the Park’ – please all keep your fingers crossed!!
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The A.G.M. went well last Wednesday with a record attendance, as far as I can remember!!! We even had two members attend via telephone! Minutes of the Meeting were sent to all present, but if any choir member wishes to receive the Minutes or the Reports attachments, please let me know on. I’ll send them to you. The Music Director and Membership Secretary reports are, however, shown below.
Thank you to Russel for chairing the meeting and to Sue Beazley who conducted the Election of Office Bearers. We now have two new members, John Barnes and Geoff Peters. Welcome to you both! Sylvia has resigned from the committee but is happy to continue offering her help with greeting visitors and new members and providing their folders. Thank you Sylvia.
The new Committee comprises:
Thank you to you all for being part of this busy yet very worthwhile committee for the year ahead.
If you read the Minutes you will note some timely messages regarding the ANZAC Service and March, the thanks to so many people who have assisted during the past year, some remarks on the general direction of the choir, discussion on fees and how we can keep them at the low rate they currently are, and our beautiful old lady Piano, etc. This newsletter would be too long if these were printed here, so do read them if you care to
MUSIC DIRECTOR’S REPORT
VOCALLY WILD INC. ~ Annual General Meeting Report from the Music Director
18th May 2022
It is great to be back into it once again. I wish to report that everything is proceeding noticeably well and according to plan.
The 2021 Christmas Choir presented outstanding performances and were emphatically congratulated for each of them by organisers and audiences alike. A hearty well done to all members involved.
The 2022 ANZAC Service Choir did a fine job and were very deserving of the congratulations bestowed upon them by attendees and the Beaumaris RSL.
Once again this year, I commend the membership for their willingness to follow my guidance and suggestions and willingness to learn new material, techniques and perspectives. Thank you to the committee for managing the ensemble with dedication, diligence, persistence and insight during very difficult times. Special thanks are extended to accompanist Sarah Barnett for her hard work and commitment.
Positive development continues to occur in a range of domains, notably
1) intonation
2) phrasing
3) rhythmic accuracy
4) diction
5) observation of dynamics/volumes
6) balance
7) blend
8) breath control
9) breathing & support techniques
10) music-reading skills.
Please bring a pencil to rehearsals for making annotations on music where requested. This should ensure that everyone is doing the same things(s) at the same place(s).
Dr W. E. (Bill) Miles
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY’S REPORT – Cherry Tunnock
Vocally Wild has had another difficult 12 months, due to Covid. We had one rehearsal in July, 2021, then had to shut down for the rest of the year. Then we delayed our return in 2022 for one month, which was not ideal, but necessary under the Covid climate.
There are currently 69 fully paid up members. Sadly, for a wide assortment of reasons, 29 members have left the choir over the last 12 months. However, we have acquired eight enthusiastic new members, with 3 more about to join.
I have cleared the Waiting List and it’s been quite a treat to say “Yes” whenever someone enquires about joining Vocally Wild. A first since I became Membership Secretary in 2018.
There are 13 prospective members who have contacted me, expressing interest in trying us. Most of these people are yet to visit a rehearsal, due to being away on holidays, work commitments or getting Covid.
I am not disheartened by the lessening of numbers, as there are constant enquiries about joining and I know, as we are settling into singing again, there is still a lot of interest in people joining choirs.
Thank you to all on the Committee who have assisted me in the peripheral needs of the Membership role.
Vocally Wild Facebook
I have also been looking after the V.W. Facebook page since February, 2022 and try to put in an update every week, usually on a Sunday. I’d be thrilled to receive any ideas or suggestions of content going forward.
FACEBOOK
Reiterating Cherry’s message above - have any of you been viewing Cherry’s Facebook messages lately? They are original, inspiring messages, giving important information together with delightful photographs, so please take a look.
WEBSITE
Communication takes many forms these days, so if you want to find out anything about the choir, its leaders, what’s happening currently, songs to be sung, look at photos/videos, if you wish to practise songs via recordings, see profiles, see Cherry’s Facebook posts, refer friends to the choir; etc. please look up the Vocally Wild website – vocallywild.org.au Years ago Teresa set this website up for us – she did a wonderful job and now we are attempting to make full use of it.. So do give it a go!! Cherry is happy to assist anyone who has forgotten their password!
SONGS FOR REHEARSAL – TUESDAY, 24TH MAY
This information was forwarded recently, via Bill, but it’s repeated here if anyone missed it. Our songs for Tuesday will be – Revisit ‘You’re The Voice’, Finish – ‘Don’t Dream it’s Over, Start – ‘Keep a Dream in Your Pocket’ and Start ‘Leaps and Bounds’.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST
Pat and Committee
Vocally Wild Choir
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
John Barlow
Geoff Peters
Firstly, many of you will know that we now have a wonderful new piano accompanist – Emma Lippa.
Emma has played with us for the past two weeks and we are loving the music!! A huge welcome to Vocally Wild, Emma, from all of us. Emma and Bill have hit the ground running and, together with our very loyal choir members, they are proving that Vocally Wild has now well and truly bounced back from the past two years or so of uncertainty and is now ‘Up and Singing’ again with joy and confidence.
Emma, who lives locally, has had a stellar career – twenty eight years with the Bolshoi Ballet, twenty years with the Australian Ballet during which times she attained many high awards, travelled extensively and worked with numerous luminaries from the dance world. Her full Profile is on the Vocally Wild website under the dropdown headings “About” or “Home.” Please read this impressive resume of her career – Emma has much more, of course, to tell! There are some delightful photographs there too.
Some flyers will be placed in community areas in the next few days advising that Vocally Wild is well and truly up and singing again and that our membership is currently open for new male and female singers (soprano, alto, tenor, bass/baritone). (See Cherry’s report below).
We are letting people know how much we are enjoying singing with Bill and Emma; that we have a varied repertoire and how we’re looking forward to our exciting concert in October. At present there is no waiting list, so we are encouraging past members, those considering returning, or anyone interested, to come along and try us out. If you would like a flyer to forward on to friends, please let me know on Pat Lowry, or contact Cherry on cherry@cham.com.au
Now here is the latest news. I won’t repeat the Diary dates at this stage as there is no change, apart from:
- confirmation that Connor’s Run will be going ahead on Sunday, 22nd September (10th year) and we will be stationed at the South Melbourne Life Saving Club, Middle Park as we have in more recent times..
- Miranda Turner has confirmed our booking to sing at the SandyBeach Centre during their Friday Afternoon Social Club on 19th August.
However, we do hope soon to be able to put some very special dates in for our Christmas ‘Carols in the Park’ – please all keep your fingers crossed!!
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The A.G.M. went well last Wednesday with a record attendance, as far as I can remember!!! We even had two members attend via telephone! Minutes of the Meeting were sent to all present, but if any choir member wishes to receive the Minutes or the Reports attachments, please let me know on. I’ll send them to you. The Music Director and Membership Secretary reports are, however, shown below.
Thank you to Russel for chairing the meeting and to Sue Beazley who conducted the Election of Office Bearers. We now have two new members, John Barnes and Geoff Peters. Welcome to you both! Sylvia has resigned from the committee but is happy to continue offering her help with greeting visitors and new members and providing their folders. Thank you Sylvia.
The new Committee comprises:
| Russel Barnes: President | Maggie Cripps: Music Production & Management |
| Julie Serglienko: Treasurer | Kerry Holmquest: |
| Pat Lowry: Secretary | John Barlow |
| Cherry Tunnock: Membership Secretary | Geoff Peters |
Thank you to you all for being part of this busy yet very worthwhile committee for the year ahead.
If you read the Minutes you will note some timely messages regarding the ANZAC Service and March, the thanks to so many people who have assisted during the past year, some remarks on the general direction of the choir, discussion on fees and how we can keep them at the low rate they currently are, and our beautiful old lady Piano, etc. This newsletter would be too long if these were printed here, so do read them if you care to
MUSIC DIRECTOR’S REPORT
VOCALLY WILD INC. ~ Annual General Meeting Report from the Music Director
18th May 2022
It is great to be back into it once again. I wish to report that everything is proceeding noticeably well and according to plan.
The 2021 Christmas Choir presented outstanding performances and were emphatically congratulated for each of them by organisers and audiences alike. A hearty well done to all members involved.
The 2022 ANZAC Service Choir did a fine job and were very deserving of the congratulations bestowed upon them by attendees and the Beaumaris RSL.
Once again this year, I commend the membership for their willingness to follow my guidance and suggestions and willingness to learn new material, techniques and perspectives. Thank you to the committee for managing the ensemble with dedication, diligence, persistence and insight during very difficult times. Special thanks are extended to accompanist Sarah Barnett for her hard work and commitment.
Positive development continues to occur in a range of domains, notably
1) intonation
2) phrasing
3) rhythmic accuracy
4) diction
5) observation of dynamics/volumes
6) balance
7) blend
8) breath control
9) breathing & support techniques
10) music-reading skills.
Please bring a pencil to rehearsals for making annotations on music where requested. This should ensure that everyone is doing the same things(s) at the same place(s).
Dr W. E. (Bill) Miles
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY’S REPORT – Cherry Tunnock
Vocally Wild has had another difficult 12 months, due to Covid. We had one rehearsal in July, 2021, then had to shut down for the rest of the year. Then we delayed our return in 2022 for one month, which was not ideal, but necessary under the Covid climate.
There are currently 69 fully paid up members. Sadly, for a wide assortment of reasons, 29 members have left the choir over the last 12 months. However, we have acquired eight enthusiastic new members, with 3 more about to join.
I have cleared the Waiting List and it’s been quite a treat to say “Yes” whenever someone enquires about joining Vocally Wild. A first since I became Membership Secretary in 2018.
There are 13 prospective members who have contacted me, expressing interest in trying us. Most of these people are yet to visit a rehearsal, due to being away on holidays, work commitments or getting Covid.
I am not disheartened by the lessening of numbers, as there are constant enquiries about joining and I know, as we are settling into singing again, there is still a lot of interest in people joining choirs.
Thank you to all on the Committee who have assisted me in the peripheral needs of the Membership role.
Vocally Wild Facebook
I have also been looking after the V.W. Facebook page since February, 2022 and try to put in an update every week, usually on a Sunday. I’d be thrilled to receive any ideas or suggestions of content going forward.
Reiterating Cherry’s message above - have any of you been viewing Cherry’s Facebook messages lately? They are original, inspiring messages, giving important information together with delightful photographs, so please take a look.
WEBSITE
Communication takes many forms these days, so if you want to find out anything about the choir, its leaders, what’s happening currently, songs to be sung, look at photos/videos, if you wish to practise songs via recordings, see profiles, see Cherry’s Facebook posts, refer friends to the choir; etc. please look up the Vocally Wild website – vocallywild.org.au Years ago Teresa set this website up for us – she did a wonderful job and now we are attempting to make full use of it.. So do give it a go!! Cherry is happy to assist anyone who has forgotten their password!
SONGS FOR REHEARSAL – TUESDAY, 24TH MAY
This information was forwarded recently, via Bill, but it’s repeated here if anyone missed it. Our songs for Tuesday will be – Revisit ‘You’re The Voice’, Finish – ‘Don’t Dream it’s Over, Start – ‘Keep a Dream in Your Pocket’ and Start ‘Leaps and Bounds’.
OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST
- I love to mention concerts by people we have sung with in the past!! David Hobson will be singing with the wonderful Victoria Welsh Choir and Bhan Tre (all female Celtic band) on Sunday, 29th May (2.00 p.m.) at the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall, so if you’re interested, please look up melbournerecitalcentre.com.au Tickets from $80 ($75 concession).
- Another reminder about ‘Let’s Get Loud’ (Sat. 11th and Sun. 12th June) = Gospel, Contemporary, World, Opera, New Works, Rock and More. Join Melbourne International Singers’ Festival for a weekend of amazing vocal workshops with Australia’s finest choral conductors. Enquiries: 0419 337 283 or misf@playitforward.org.au
- Mairi McIntosh, OAM, wrote to us on behalf of John de C Douglas, OAM, thanking Vocally Wild for taking part in the ANZAC Service Wreath and Book Laying at the Beaumaris R.S.L. Mairi advised that the book has been donated to St. Leonard’s College.
Pat and Committee
Vocally Wild Choir
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Emma Lippa (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
John Barlow
Geoff Peters
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - APRIL, 2022
Fri, 29 Apr 2022VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - MARCH, 2022
Thu, 17 Mar 2022Hello everyone,
It's so good to be back at choir and a very warm welcome is extended to you all, including our accompanist, Sarah Barnett and three new members. We hope you have a happy and rewarding time with Vocally Wild.
Last Tuesday's rehearsal was busy, productive and sounded wonderful by all accounts. Bill is very pleased with how things are coming along and he thanks everyone for their attentiveness, focus and fine attitude. Our Covid-safe systems seem to be working and as we navigate the weeks ahead, we trust that everyone remains safe and cared for.
Sarah's profile is posted on the vocally Wild website, but briefly Sarah is a local from Sandringham, she holds a B.Ed. Music (Piano Major) and has taught piano privately and in classrooms. Sarah has also spent many years in the U.S.A. and in Caribbean nations. She performs professionally on the Caribbean Steel Pan and has much experience in this field, founding and directing the Caribbean community of Victoria's Steel Pan Band. Do read her full and interesting profile on the website. Go to drop down menu ABOUT and then CHOIR DIRECTOR when you get an opportunity.
We're very happy with our newly acquired piano - soon, thanks to Russel, it will have new wheels, for ease of movement, and have a re-tune (it had one earlier this month, but a second is normal for elderly pianos). May we also say a big thank you to Rob Tunnock who is our new Choir Roadie! Rob comes early each week to assist Russel with all our equipment set up. We are very grateful. Also, thank you to all of you who help set up and put away the equipment and chairs, at the end of the evening. It's quite a task.
As you know Term 1 had to be delayed by four weeks, so we wll need our skates on in preparation for the ANZAC commitments. More on this below.
We have plenty of news, so here goes ... first, some Diary Dates:
| DATE | DETAIL |
| Tuesday, 12th April | Last rehearsal for Term 1 |
| Sunday, 24th April | ANZAC Parade and Service (from 1 p.m.) |
| Tuesday, 26th April | Choir Term 2 commences, normal rehearsal |
| Wednesday, 18th May | Vocally Wild A.G.M. |
| Tuesday, 21st June | Last rehearsal for Term 2 |
| Sunday, 26th June | Tentative date for V.W. Concert, B.T. Hall |
| Tuesday, 12th July | Choir Term 3 commences, normal rehearsal |
| Tuesday, 13th September | Last rehearsal for Term 3 |
ANZAC DAY PARADE AND SERVICE
BEAUMARIS RSL COMMUNITY ANZAC COMMEMORATIVE MARCH & SERVICE
SUNDAY, 24TH APRIL, 2022
ASSEMBLY 2:15PM
Beaumaris Concourse Green, Reserve Road, Beaumaris
FALL IN 2:30PM
STEP OFF 2:45PM
SERVICE 3:00PM
BEAUMARIS MEMORIAL COMMUNITY CENTRE, FORECOURT and CENOTAPH
96 Reserve Road, Beaumaris
WET WEATHER ROUTINE
In the event of inclement weather the service will be moved indoors. Afternoon Tea and Refreshments to follow at Beaumaris Bowls Club
SUNDAY, 24TH APRIL, 2022
ASSEMBLY 2:15PM
Beaumaris Concourse Green, Reserve Road, Beaumaris
FALL IN 2:30PM
STEP OFF 2:45PM
SERVICE 3:00PM
BEAUMARIS MEMORIAL COMMUNITY CENTRE, FORECOURT and CENOTAPH
96 Reserve Road, Beaumaris
WET WEATHER ROUTINE
In the event of inclement weather the service will be moved indoors. Afternoon Tea and Refreshments to follow at Beaumaris Bowls Club
Next week, after the tea break, we will commence rehearsals for this annual event which we always love attending. Cherry will provide a sheet for names of those who will be singing, so we can ascertain seating numbers, etc. Please could you complete this in the next two weeks? Thank you. If you are not able to attend and don’t want to join in the rehearsals of the songs for the Service, you are of course welcome to leave after or at tea break.
Hopefully our new members will decide to come along as it is a wonderful community event to take part in. Maggie will have all the relevant music available. It is the Army’s turn this year turn to conduct the service - the songs/hymns will be:
The Recessional (God of our Fathers),
O God Our Help in Ages Past,
I Vow to Thee My Country,
I am Australian
My Country,
N.Z. and Australian National Anthems.
Vocally Wild will donate $60 to Beaumaris RSL for tthe purchhase of book/s for the Wreath - Book Laying Ceremony. (The books are generally given to local schools.) Bill or Russel will present the gift on our behalf.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – WEDNESDAY, 18TH MAY
The Vocally Wild AGM will take place in the Beaumaris Tennis Clubrooms (next to our rehearsal hall) at 7.30 p.m. on 18th May when one of the main items on the Agenda will be the election of our choir committee. There are two extra places vacant, so please give it some thought and consider becoming a member yourself or nominating somebody; we would be more than pleased to hear from you. More detail to follow.
BAYSIDE GRANT FOR CONCERT – SUNDAY, 26TH JUNE
We have received a $1,000 grant from Bayside Council which is to be used to plan and present a community concert to showcase Vocally Wild ‘in recovery’ after Covid and to introduce young local musical talent to the community.
Brighton Town Hall has been tentatively booked for this date (we’re familiar with this venue for concerts) and an afternoon timeslot, 2.30 p.m. is planned, followed by afternoon tea (and scones?!!) We have already started learning some of the pieces for our repertoire and we’ll no doubt have the usual fun and excitement during our preparation for this event later in June. More to follow of course, but it’s wonderful to have something to plan for.
MEMBERSHIP
We have 71 paid up members with up to 7 possible newcomers. However, we can now open up our ‘Waiting List’ so if you have any friends or family who may wish to join us, do let them know. They can come along for a ‘visit’ during our Tuesday rehearsals – Maggie has made up Visitor Folders for their use. Contact is easily made via our Website or via Cherry direct, or any committee member.
Please note Cherry’s item below:
Vocally Wild Choir database information
Have you visited your personal page in the Vocally Wild database lately? Do any of your details need updating?
We now have a new COVID19 section which we’d appreciate you completing as follows:
Have you visited your personal page in the Vocally Wild database lately? Do any of your details need updating?
We now have a new COVID19 section which we’d appreciate you completing as follows:
Below your name, click on Update member details.
Click the COVID19 tab and enter your vax details.
Then click Save (down the bottom).
If you’ve forgotten your Login or need any further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact Cherry Tunnock at
Please also check that your email, phone and emergency contact details are correct. Thank you. Also, while we are talking about Members:
- Our good friends and loyal V.W. choristers for many years, now retired, Ken and Heather have sent this message: "Thanks for heartwarming messages. We are missing the enjoyment of choir and singing with you and want to convey our thanks to all of the choir for over 12 years of singing."
- Lesley Winning, our tireless and enthusiastic community member, is now on the Board at Pets of the Homeless and a volunteer at the Lort Smith Pet Therapy Programme. Lesley is no longer a Board Member at Family Life, but continues to support this wonderful organisation.
With the likely increase in Covid infections because of a new strain, we feel it important that we continue our vigilance and follow health and safety guidelines as far as possible, for example - doors to be left open, masks optional, bottles of hand sanitiser readily available, distancing re chairs, etc. and we do ask that if you are not well, or have any symptoms at all, in the interests of everyone, please don't attend choir.
MUSIC
If you are thinking of rehearsing our songs at home, this is a reminder that practice recordings, in parts and together, of many of our current songs are on the website. For example, our new song 'A Place in the Choir', plus Bridge Over Troubled Waters', 'Jerusalem Morning', 'Long and Winding Road', etc. are all there. Go to the website, pull down the Members list, then go to Songs. Easy, and the recordings are very helpful - just have your folder, look at the words and music and listen and sing along to your part. Fun too!!
A list of all the songs we are currently learning, plus the ANZAC ones, is posted on the website, under ABOUT, then "Have a Listen"!
MORE MUSIC OUT AND ABOUT
- Did you happen to read Tony Way's article in the Age on 22nd February, 2022 - entitled "Marvellous Tchaikovsky fundraiser?" He was referring to the Melbourne Recital Centre's annual Tchaikovsky Marathon. Bill's daughter Charlotte took part and Tony Way's comments were, "Young cellist,Chalotte Mies, embraced the elegant restraint and good humour of the variations on a Rococo Theme with assured technique and honeyed tone." Well done to Charlotte, what a brilliant career ahead!.
- Who could forget MIRUSA and her wonderful rehearsal and performance with us at Carols in the Park? Under What's On at the Arts Centre you'll find she is performing as Special Guest for Tenor MARK VINCENT's concert at Hamer Hall on 1st May. They will be performing musical hits from London's West End to Broadway. Go to www.artscentremelbourne.com.au to book.
- Also in May, another wonderful artist we have performed with, David Hobson, joins the Victoria Welsh Choir to perform once again at the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall, M.R.C. in the St. David's Day Concert on Sunday, 29th May, 2.00 p.m. For further information contact enews@melbournerecital.com.au or www.melbourner.om.au
- Janet Bassett-Smith has forwarded information (via her friend and ex-choir member Jennifer Coghlan Bell) about forthcoming concerts at St. Andrew's Church, Brighton,. The next one will be on 22nd May - Johann Sebastian Bach's Musical and Spiritual Odyssey - Dr. Calvin Bowman, Organ. A short lecture and complete performance of Bach's great masterpiece which is based on Luther's Catechism. See more detail regarding this and other concerts throughout the year on - www.standrewsbrighton.org.au
- MoJo - Mordialloc Jazz Orchestra - Big Band Sunsets. These have already started! For further informatiion contact publicity@mojoswingcom.au or google Mordialloc Jazz Orchestra.
- Our choir belongs to A.N.C.A. (Australian National Choral Association). The magazine "Sing Out" is now being delivered on line, so if you are interested, Vol. 39, No. 1 is now available. If you would like me to forward you a copy, please let me know.
- Bayside Healthy Ageing. Bayside Council is committed to supportting older residents to participate, contribute and connect with a sense of belonging to the Bayside community and their Healthy Ageing Team is undertaking a survey to better understand how to support people 55+ years to 'age well'. The survey will take about 10 minutes, so if you would like to take part, please contact www.surveymonkey.com/r/HealthyAgeingBayside2022
- Ukraine and Floods. The world and local news is so devastating at the moment. If you feel the need to donate, here are some links to reliable organisations:
- www.unrefugees.org.au/donate
- www.redcross.org.au
- Maggie's Maggie and Moggie!! If you can, look at this - it's amazing. VID-20200524-WA0000.mp4
Take care everyone. See you next Tuesday.
Looks as though we'll be rehearsing:
'Jerusalem Morning'
'Lean on Me'
'This Little Light of Mine'
plus a couple of our ANZAC items.
Enjoy!
Looks as though we'll be rehearsing:
'Jerusalem Morning'
'Lean on Me'
'This Little Light of Mine'
plus a couple of our ANZAC items.
Enjoy!
Pat
Bill Miles (Music Director) Sarah Barnett - (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) Sylvia Ring Kerry Holmquest Website address: www.vocallywild.org.au |
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - FEBRUARY, 2022
Thu, 17 Feb 2022
I can just hear you all singing "HALLELUJAH" when you read this:
Vocally Wild Choir will resume Term 1 on Tuesday, 1st March, 7.30 p.m. at the Beaumaris Community Hall, Reserve Road, Beaumaris. Wow, what a wait, but now we can all look forward to being together again. We will need to continue Covid-safe rules, see below, but the obvious joy and delight will be our combined voices in harmony once again!
We will be warmly welcoming Sarah Barnett, our new accompanist, and nine new-comers, some of whom are newly signed up members, and some will be visiting to check us out! We hope they enjoy their first night, which of course will be a busy one.
So, for the news and please forgive me -there is plenty!! Much to say, so do read to the end!!!:
FIRST NIGHT OF REHEARAL
We will be warmly welcoming Sarah Barnett, our new accompanist, and nine new-comers, some of whom are newly signed up members, and some will be visiting to check us out! We hope they enjoy their first night, which of course will be a busy one.
So, for the news and please forgive me -there is plenty!! Much to say, so do read to the end!!!:
FIRST NIGHT OF REHEARAL
- To give you confidence, Covid-safe practices, as last year, need to be followed. Unfortunately they are necessary., but hopefully this situation won't last too long:
- Masks need to be worn whilst indoors and singing. (Even though some indoor wearing of masks may soon not requiired, we still feel it is important to continue with them initially.)
- Proof of double vaccination is required. Boosters of course, are preferred but proof not required to be shown..
- All safety equipment will be available - masks, shields, gloves, sanitiser, etc. for your use.
- Your temperature will be taken on arrival by a hands free thermometer.
- Electric fans will be placed strategically around the room to direct the air flow to the outside.
- Doors will be open.
- Chairs will be spaced 1 metre apart.
- Timing
- 7.30 p.m. prompt start.
- 8.40 p.m. - announcements if there are any. (Please advise Russel if you have an announcement and try to keep it to 2 minutes if possible).
- 8.40 to 8.55 p.m. - Tea Break. (Carolyn McIntyre will bring the usual tea, coffee, milk, but please could you bring your own cup. Just go into the kitchen and make up your own brew! Plenty of hot water. Thank you).
- 9.30 p.m. Close. (Lock up to be complete by 10.00 p.m.)
- Chairs
- Chairs to be placed in same positions, in a semi-circle, as last year. We plan to publish a chair roster shortly, but on the first night we will endeavour to set out as many chairs as we can; if you do come early it would be wonderful if you could help. Chairs will need to be packed away in stacks of 10. There is a trolley to assist.
- Music
- Bill has set out the following songs. Maggie will provide the music for newcomers and they will be handed a folder. Some of us may not have all the music, so if you don't have them at home, Maggie will have a sheet on her music table for you to indicate which sheets for the future nights you don't already have. It is very useful for her to have an idea of how many extra copies will need to be printed. So, please check your cupboards and files and dig out as many of these as you can and put them in your folders:
Bridge Over Troubled Waters
House of the Rising Sun
Lean on Me
Long and Winding Road
A Place in the Choir
Second 2 or 3 rehearsals
Goodnight Sweethears
Jerusalem Morning
Siyahamba
Thank You for the Music
This Little Light of Mine
Third 3 or 4 Rehearsals
Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy
New Material:
Don't Dream it's Over
Keep a Dream in Your Pocket
Leaps and Bounds
You're the Voice
- Badges. If you can remember where it is, please could you wear your name badge - this will help us all and in particular our new members and visitors. Thank you.
ANZAC DAY PARADE AND SERVICE
We are once again invited to take part in the Beaumaris RSL ANZAC Day Parade and Service on Sunday, 24th April (ANZAC Day being the next day, the 25th). Full details will be sent in due course, but choir will be required to attend from 1.00 p.m. for joint rehearsal with the St. Leonard's Band. The March steps off at 2.45 p.m. and the Service commences at 3.00 p.m. This year the Army will conduct the Service. Please put this date in your diary if you enjoy taking part in this, always wonderful, community event.
VOCALLY WILD CONCERT
Bayside Council has awarded us a $1,000 grant. This is to be used to plan and present a community concert to showcase Vocally Wild in 'recovery' and for us to introduce some young musical talent to the community. We will confirm the date shortly, but it could be late June/early July, or October. The venue will be Brighton Town Hall. This will be an exciting event for us to prepare for.
OTHER MUSICAL EVENTS
We will of course have further news of events for our diaries, but first things first, let's get started and let our voices freely soar!
FACEBOOK - WEBSITE
Cherry is now the Facebook Administrator, and I look after the Website. We will endeavour to keep both these platforms up to date, so you will know where to look for information if you need it.
If you have any choir photographs you would like to see on either of these sites, please let Cherry or I know. If you want to read about the Choir's 'glorious' history, see some recent photographs, listen to recorded practice music, look at staff profiles, look at past music videos of Vocally Wild, etc., do check out the website. Just go to www.vocallywild.org.au and go to the Home Page. From there you can look at the various pull down lists. The website is a work in progress, so any icomments you make will be welcome. I will endeavour to get round to adding song words, etc. all good fun and there are endless possibilities!
If you have forgotten your website password, please contact Cherry and she will organise a new one for you.
Cherry would love you to write a 'Post' for Facebook, so do let her know. It is better to add a photograph to a post - this makes people take notice! To find Vocally Wild in Facebook, just enter Vocally Wild Choir!
YOUNG, AMAZING TALENT
Bill has a very talented family. Some of you who sang in the community carols in December will have met Jamie, Bill's son, who plays a magical Viola. Bill's daughter, Charlotte, is a brilliant Cellist who is constantly in demand with requests to play in various parts of the country. This weekend, for example, Charlote will be playing Tchaikovsky's 'Variations on a Rococo (Cello Concerto) in the closing concert of the 3MBS Tchaikovsky Marathon at the Melbourne Recital Hall on SATURDAY NIGHT, 19th February, 8.00 p.m. It is a live concert being streamed through Australian Digital Concert Hall. Subscription for the 72 hour streamed broadcase (Saturday to Tuesday) can be purchased from : https://www.melbournerecital.com.au/events/2022/tchaikovsky-marathon-concert-5/, and tickets for the live performance from this site: https://www.melbournerecital.com.au/events/2022/tchaikovsky-marathon-concert-5/.
CONNOR'S RUN
Hopefully Vocally Wild will be singing at the annual Connor's Run event later in the year, but Cherry has brought to our attention this news of a very worthy Australia Day Honours recipient. Many of you will be very interested:
Medal (O.A.M.) of the Order of Australia in the General Division was awarded to Mrs. Mary Elizabeth DAWES, Sandringham, Victoria for her service to the community through charitable organisations. Mary is the founder (in 2013) and Chief Executive Officer of the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation and funds are raised for The Royal Children's Hospital Foundation. Mary's other awards and recognition include: Local Hero, Electoral Division of Goldstein in 2016 and Bayside Citizen of the Year, 2015.
LESLEY COLEMAN (WINNING)'S NEW PROJECT
Lesley is such a community minded and talented person! Amongst other things, she supports and leads the Family Life Charity, she supports Dogs of the Homeless, and Lesley now has a new project which she thought Vocally Wild might be interested in. In her words:
I am making a short film about family violence, told from the point of view of the survivors of violent relationships. We know that family violence has become even worse over the past two years, so this project is both timely and very important.
The film will be accompanied by an eBook that details the psychological underpinnings of the issue and provides advice on where and how to get help. It will include teaching materials. We have worked with Family Life on the script and counselling psychologist, Meredith Fuller OAM is our associate producer and will write the eBook.
If anyone would like more information, here is the website address: https://home-truths.com.au
We are running a crowd funding campaign to help us make this film. If you would like to contribute to this project, please click on this link https://www.pozible.com/profile/lesley-coleman-4 The funding campaign ends on February 25.
CHATTY CAFE - Come for a Chat - by Penny Repse
We all know Vocally Wild members love to chat, so this sounds perfect for you.
Chatty Café is a community organisation which is all about helping people connect for a chat. It’s a simple concept which started in the UK in 2017 with the focus on providing ways to bring people together of all ages and from all walks of life.
Bayside locals started the Australian arm a couple of years ago but, unfortunately, the covid lockdown restrictions slowed it down but now it’s up and running again locally. The importance of the program has been recognised with Bayside Council and the State Government’s South East Metro Partnerships supporting Chatty Café as a way of helping the community reconnect.
Bayside’s initiative will be used a model to get the program up and running in other parts of the state. Venues as diverse as the Royal Brighton Yacht Club, Éclair, Our Casa and Paperboy cafés in Hampton, Castlefield, Cheltenham, Highett and Hampton Community Centres, Sandringham Library, Bayside Nursery, RAW Garden and Sandy Beach Kiosk are all hosting Chatty Café tables. See below for local venues, days and times, plus new venues and days are being added all the time.
Initially the tables are hosted by volunteers, including Vocally Wild member Penny Repse, who welcome and encourage visitors to get to know each other. Then it’s up to people to chat.
The program has been so successful in the UK that more than 1,400 venues take part around the country, and it has now spread to Poland and Gibraltar with interest growing the Canada and the US. You might like to be involved as a volunteer, or just come along for a ‘chat’. Everyone is welcome so tell your friends, family, neighbours, anyone who might like a chat. Check out the website at chattycafeaustralia.org.au or, if you’re interested in volunteering, email Helen Boulton, the Volunteer Manager, at helenb@thechattycafe.com.au or talk to Penny Repse on 0439 995 850 to find out more.
Also, calling any cake-makers! Chatty Cafe like to provide a snack for the 'chatters' at the community centres. If anyone is willing to make a cake, or similar, for morning teas, on a Roster basis, it would be very much appreciated. Please contact Penny.on her phone number above or pennyrepse@gmail.com
Local Chatty Cafes
| Monday | Cheltenham Community Centre, 8 Chesterville Road, Cheltenham from10.00am |
| Tuesday | A W Oliver Pavilion, Summit Avenue, Hampton East !0.00am - 11.00am Highett Neighbourhood House, 2 Livingston St, Highett from 10.00am |
| Wednesday | Hampton Community Centre, 14 Willis Street, Hampton 11.15am-12noon Eclair Cafe, 275 Hampton Street, Hampton 10.30am - 12noon Sandringham Library, 8 Waltham Street, Sandringham 11.30am-12.30pm |
| Thursday | Cheltenham Community Centre, 8 Chesterville Road, Cheltenham from 10.00am |
| Friday | Castlefield Community Centre, 505 Bluff Road, Hampton East 10.00am - 11.30am |
| Plus extra sessions | Monday 28 February: special session at Bay Road Cafe, Bay Road Nursery 112-114 Bay Rd, Sandringham from 10.00am Early March - Beaumaris Concourse. details TBC Royal Brighton Yacht Club – weekly sessions coming up, details TBC Sandy Beach Kiosk – weekly sessions coming up, details TBC |
VIDEOS OF CAROLS AT LANDCOX PARK
Last but not at all least, Rob Marshall (Isobel Marshall) has kindly sent a link so you can see videos of the carols group at Landcox Park in December.
Robert advises: To view the Vocally Wild Landcox Park videos , click this OneDrive link:
https://1drv.ms/f/s!At_eFlBDq-dBgu9I0GZwTTgIpo-Q1w
Thank you Robert and Isobel.
Last but not at all least, Rob Marshall (Isobel Marshall) has kindly sent a link so you can see videos of the carols group at Landcox Park in December.
Robert advises: To view the Vocally Wild Landcox Park videos , click this OneDrive link:
https://1drv.ms/f/s!At_eFlBDq-dBgu9I0GZwTTgIpo-Q1w
Thank you Robert and Isobel.
NOW, FOR THOSE DOG LOVERS:
Kindest regards, and 'See you on the 1st March",
Pat and the Committee.
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Sarah Barnett (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
Sylvia Ring
Sarah Barnett (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
Sylvia Ring
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - JANUARY, 2022
Wed, 19 Jan 2022CHRISTMAS 2021
Thu, 16 Dec 2021
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - DECEMBER, 2021
Wed, 1 Dec 2021This is the last newsletter for 2021, as we gear up for a couple of weeks of busy choral activity! It seems that in the blink of an eye we’re making up for the past inactive year! Without our usual wonderful Carols in the Park involvement for yet another year, we’re now ‘Getting in the Mood for Christmas’ with Bayside’s Community Christmas Programme, starting with “Light the Rock at Black Rock’ this Friday and concluding with the Hampton Cricket Club Christmas party on Sat. 18th December! See below our gig dates.
If any of you would like to join in the fun, who haven’t already committed, please let me know and come along to sing – you’ll know the carols and a songbook will be provided! (37 singers will sing at the various gigs, with 27 coming to Black Rock House and 23 to Landcox Park, etc. so you won’t be singing solo at any of them!) If you can’t commit to any of the dates, but you do happen to hear joyful sounds in the community and see your colourful Vocally Wild choir, wave ‘hello’ and join in anyway!
I assume many of you are now aware that our dear Patrice has resigned from Vocally Wild – I don’t think she will mind me saying that her thumbs and wrists are suffering more with arthritis lately. Knowing Patrice, she always likes to play at her very best and with such painful hands, it must be so difficult. We will be saying farewell to her on Sunday, 12th December at our Social gathering. Details below. Bill is currently searching for a replacement for Patrice, so that we will be ready for 1st February Term 1 start.
DIARY - DECEMBER
Note:
A Carols songbook to be distributed to singers for their use at each of the gigs. If you wish to bring your music sheets, please do so and if you are missing any, let me know so that I can send an email copy. Maggie will bring a set or two to rehearsals.
At Black Rock House we sing three items – Mary’s Boy Child, Hark the Herald and Rudolph.
At our other performances, the Carols sets are: Set 1 - Joy to the World, We Three Kings, Mary’s Boy Child, Deck the Hall, Rudolph, Away in a Manger, Ding Dong. Set 2 – O Come all ye Faithful, Holly Jolly Christmas, Silent Night, 12 Days of Xmas, The First Nowell, Good King Wenceslas, Santa Clause is coming to Town. Set 3 - Hark the Herald, God Rest You Merry Gentlemen, Once in Royal David’s City, Jingle Bells, While Shepherds Watched, Angels We Have Heard on High, We Wish You a Merry Christmas. Bill will advise which sets we will be doing.
Singers will be advised via email re time-slot and exact location for the Foreshore gigs.
Thanks indeed go to everyone involved in organising these Carols, in particular Bill and his son Jamie, who have put in much preparation and made themselves available for all these events during a very busy time for musicians. May I also mention that Rod Cripps has come to our rescue (again!); this time re the Carols Songbooks? One of the printer’s machines wasn’t able to staple them together, so Rod went to his ‘special place’ where he has an industrial sewing machine and we will see the results tomorrow (Thursday)! Allan Lowry is to be Russel’s ‘roadie’ apprentice for all the gigs, so a big thankyou goes to Allan too!
SOCIAL – SUNDAY, 12TH DECEMBER - 4.00 to 7.00 p.m.
PATTY CHAPLIN’S UKULELE BAND
Last week four of us sang with Patty’s Ukulele band (led by wonderful Ron Leigh playing brilliantly on his own melodic uke) at Mayflower Aged Care Home’s independent living residents. It was a happy and exhilarating experience to be singing once again, and by all accounts, the residents thoroughly enjoyed themselves. They loved all the ‘golden oldies’ and I still can’t get “Pearly Shells” and “Maggie” out of my head! Thank you indeed Ron, Patty, Pat and June – the ‘best band in the land’, together with singers Carolyn, Sue B, and John B – I feel we did a good job, and oh boy, was it fun to be singing again!
FAMILY LIFE HAMPERS
Christmas is certainly a time for giving, and Family Life were delighted at your generosity! Maggie and were able to thank most of you, but there was one ‘mystery’ donor who left very yummy looking goodies at my place and I didn’t get chance to see who it was! Please identify yourself to me, as I would love to say thank you, personally, for your thoughtfulness. Eight rather large bags were delivered to Family Life for their Hamper campaign.
Zoe from Family Life sent a huge thank you … “for Vocally Wild’s generosity toward our Community Christmas Drive”.
GIVING DAY FOR PETS OF THE HOMELESS
Lesley says a big ‘thank you’ on behalf of the Pets of the Homeless charity to those of you who donated to this very worthy cause.
MESSAGE FROM SUE BEAZLEY
Our past Alto member of many years Nell
Jackson has just been awarded has just been
awarded 1st Prize in the Craft Section at the Ballarat Show for her Christmas Tree teapot Class 17000 - Craftwork - Any Article. Sure still many in choir would remember Nell and would be interested in knowing of her success. Nell and Ross now live in Ballarat and she is heavily involved in the wonderful Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage located in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens and the Crafts Council of Ballarat. Nell now has a whole room set up for her craft work at her house, filled with bits of material, ribbons, buttons, dressmaker’s models, etc. and markets her creations via her business called The Rats Pyjamas. Very excited for her, she is such a lovely lady.
PLANNING FOR 2022
Term 1 commences Tuesday, 1st February. It seems a fair way away, but time will fly of course! We are looking forward to starting off with many of our well-known songs for the first six weeks, so we can sing with fun and joy whilst getting back into the swing of things after such a long break. So if you want to dig out your sheet music for any of the following titles during the break, please do so. Songs will be selected from these and we’ll advise during January which ones we’ll need for our folders.
It will be a busy month ahead for everyone, so enjoy the Christmas festivities and the carol singing if you’re taking part. Thinking of you all over the festive season, especially some who are coping with health concerns; may the next couple of months be good to you all. A Very Happy Christmas and let’s hope there is much:
Very best wishes, Pat, Bill and Vocally Wild Committee
If any of you would like to join in the fun, who haven’t already committed, please let me know and come along to sing – you’ll know the carols and a songbook will be provided! (37 singers will sing at the various gigs, with 27 coming to Black Rock House and 23 to Landcox Park, etc. so you won’t be singing solo at any of them!) If you can’t commit to any of the dates, but you do happen to hear joyful sounds in the community and see your colourful Vocally Wild choir, wave ‘hello’ and join in anyway!
I assume many of you are now aware that our dear Patrice has resigned from Vocally Wild – I don’t think she will mind me saying that her thumbs and wrists are suffering more with arthritis lately. Knowing Patrice, she always likes to play at her very best and with such painful hands, it must be so difficult. We will be saying farewell to her on Sunday, 12th December at our Social gathering. Details below. Bill is currently searching for a replacement for Patrice, so that we will be ready for 1st February Term 1 start.
DIARY - DECEMBER
| Thur. 2nd | 6.00 pm | 1st Rehearsal (Use Small St. crossing to be safe!!) | Shelter – opp. Small St. Hampton |
| Fri. 3rd | 5.00 pm | Black Rock Village - Bluff Road. Decision on set up space to be made at 4.45 p.m. |
‘Light the Rock at Black Rock’ (Meet near 22A Bluff Road) |
| Mon. 6th | 6.00 pm | 2nd Rehearsal | Shelter, as 2nd |
| Wed. 8th | 5.45 pm 7.10 pm |
Peg Gill/Sue Hardy’s – Warm up. Black Rock House, Ebden St. Near Second Street. |
2 & 3/14 Fourth St. Under Morton Bay Fig Tre |
| Sat. 11th | 5.00 pm | Sandringham Foreshore | Location, time etc. TBA |
| Sun. 12th | 4.00 pm | End of year Social, Beaumaris Hall | |
| Tue. 14th | 5.00 pm | Landcox Park, East B’ton Off Milroy | Location, time etc. TBA |
| Wed.15th | 5.00 pm | Black Rock Foreshore | Location, time etc. TBA |
| Sat. 18th | 7.30 pm | Hampton Cricket Club | Party commences earlier |
Note:
A Carols songbook to be distributed to singers for their use at each of the gigs. If you wish to bring your music sheets, please do so and if you are missing any, let me know so that I can send an email copy. Maggie will bring a set or two to rehearsals.
At Black Rock House we sing three items – Mary’s Boy Child, Hark the Herald and Rudolph.
At our other performances, the Carols sets are: Set 1 - Joy to the World, We Three Kings, Mary’s Boy Child, Deck the Hall, Rudolph, Away in a Manger, Ding Dong. Set 2 – O Come all ye Faithful, Holly Jolly Christmas, Silent Night, 12 Days of Xmas, The First Nowell, Good King Wenceslas, Santa Clause is coming to Town. Set 3 - Hark the Herald, God Rest You Merry Gentlemen, Once in Royal David’s City, Jingle Bells, While Shepherds Watched, Angels We Have Heard on High, We Wish You a Merry Christmas. Bill will advise which sets we will be doing.
Singers will be advised via email re time-slot and exact location for the Foreshore gigs.
Thanks indeed go to everyone involved in organising these Carols, in particular Bill and his son Jamie, who have put in much preparation and made themselves available for all these events during a very busy time for musicians. May I also mention that Rod Cripps has come to our rescue (again!); this time re the Carols Songbooks? One of the printer’s machines wasn’t able to staple them together, so Rod went to his ‘special place’ where he has an industrial sewing machine and we will see the results tomorrow (Thursday)! Allan Lowry is to be Russel’s ‘roadie’ apprentice for all the gigs, so a big thankyou goes to Allan too!
SOCIAL – SUNDAY, 12TH DECEMBER - 4.00 to 7.00 p.m.
- Beaumaris Community Hall. We will set up under the tree behind the hall - we have access to the hall if weather’s inclement and the kitchen, washrooms etc. are for us to use.
- Please bring a plate for the share table/drink/glasses/nibbles. Tea/coffee, etc. will be available, plus a few nibbles to start with. I will bring some cups, but if you have a keep cup handy, please bring! (If you prefer not to bring a share plate, due to health concerns, that’s fine – just bring something to nibble anyway for yourselves.)
- We will use the white chairs belonging to Bayside (from small hall) so you don’t need to bring chairs. We should be able to carry out some of the larger tables, but if you want to bring your own collapsible table, please do so. There will be plenty of room.
- Farewell to Patrice. We’ll have a card for you to sign when you arrive, if you wish to. Patrice’s twin sister, Joan, will be joining us too.
- As per Cherry’s flyer, we will need to safely check in, and follow Covid safety guidelines. All attending will be double vaxxed, as per regulations.
PATTY CHAPLIN’S UKULELE BAND
Last week four of us sang with Patty’s Ukulele band (led by wonderful Ron Leigh playing brilliantly on his own melodic uke) at Mayflower Aged Care Home’s independent living residents. It was a happy and exhilarating experience to be singing once again, and by all accounts, the residents thoroughly enjoyed themselves. They loved all the ‘golden oldies’ and I still can’t get “Pearly Shells” and “Maggie” out of my head! Thank you indeed Ron, Patty, Pat and June – the ‘best band in the land’, together with singers Carolyn, Sue B, and John B – I feel we did a good job, and oh boy, was it fun to be singing again!
FAMILY LIFE HAMPERS
Christmas is certainly a time for giving, and Family Life were delighted at your generosity! Maggie and were able to thank most of you, but there was one ‘mystery’ donor who left very yummy looking goodies at my place and I didn’t get chance to see who it was! Please identify yourself to me, as I would love to say thank you, personally, for your thoughtfulness. Eight rather large bags were delivered to Family Life for their Hamper campaign.
Zoe from Family Life sent a huge thank you … “for Vocally Wild’s generosity toward our Community Christmas Drive”.
GIVING DAY FOR PETS OF THE HOMELESS
Lesley says a big ‘thank you’ on behalf of the Pets of the Homeless charity to those of you who donated to this very worthy cause.
MESSAGE FROM SUE BEAZLEY
Our past Alto member of many years Nell
Jackson has just been awarded has just been
awarded 1st Prize in the Craft Section at the Ballarat Show for her Christmas Tree teapot Class 17000 - Craftwork - Any Article. Sure still many in choir would remember Nell and would be interested in knowing of her success. Nell and Ross now live in Ballarat and she is heavily involved in the wonderful Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage located in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens and the Crafts Council of Ballarat. Nell now has a whole room set up for her craft work at her house, filled with bits of material, ribbons, buttons, dressmaker’s models, etc. and markets her creations via her business called The Rats Pyjamas. Very excited for her, she is such a lovely lady.
PLANNING FOR 2022
Term 1 commences Tuesday, 1st February. It seems a fair way away, but time will fly of course! We are looking forward to starting off with many of our well-known songs for the first six weeks, so we can sing with fun and joy whilst getting back into the swing of things after such a long break. So if you want to dig out your sheet music for any of the following titles during the break, please do so. Songs will be selected from these and we’ll advise during January which ones we’ll need for our folders.
| Goodnight Sweetheart Bridge Over Troubled Water Jerusalem Morning Long and Winding Road A Place in the Choir Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy May the Road Rise (Irish Blessing) Life in a Northern Town House of the Rising Sun |
Thank you for the Music Rolling in the Deep People Get Ready All You Need is Love We Built this City This Little Light of Mine Skyfall I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing |
It will be a busy month ahead for everyone, so enjoy the Christmas festivities and the carol singing if you’re taking part. Thinking of you all over the festive season, especially some who are coping with health concerns; may the next couple of months be good to you all. A Very Happy Christmas and let’s hope there is much:
Very best wishes, Pat, Bill and Vocally Wild Committee
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - NOVEMBER, 2021
Sat, 6 Nov 2021| Bill Miles (Music Director) Patrice Marshall - (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) Sylvia Ring Kerry Holmquest |
Hello everyone!
Many of you have probably been wondering if there would be a possibility of choir resuming this year, but Committee has agreed that the best thing to do under the circumstances is to plan a cheerful, happy, safe and joyful singing return for our “recovery choir” in 2022. Therefore, the start date will be Tuesday, 1st February, 2022 at the Beaumaris Community Hall. Our decision of course is based on caution, but also guided by the current regulations for the hall which restrict numbers to 55 (one person per 4 sq.m.).
PATRICE
More information is below regarding our safe start up, but our news at this moment is that sadly, but completely understandably, our wonderful Patrice has decided to ‘hang up and rest her twinkling fingers’ and retire from being our accompanist. Patrice has kindly mentioned that she will be available for us until we find another pianist; a very thoughtful gesture. We’ll have the opportunity to give her an appropriate ‘farewell’ in the New Year when I know there will be many complimentary words spoken about her. We will all want to express how much Vocally Wild has benefitted and flourished musically because of her excellent musicianship and beautiful, sunny personality.
RESUMPTION OF CHOIR – REGULATIONS AND PLANNING
When choir resumes on Tuesday, 1st February, in order to protect our choir community and ensure that everyone attending feels comfortable and safe, we will be following the Vic. Government safety guidelines to the letter. Our activity is regarded as ‘high risk’, so we feel we must ensure the following:
- On arrival, members will need to show their QR Code with their up-to-date double vaccination certificate.
- If proof of vaccination cannot be provided, it will be assumed that you are not double vaccinated and unfortunately won’t be allowed into the hall.
- Names and vax status will be marked off on our Membership Role and a nominated Covid Marshall will be on hand.
END OF 2021 SOCIAL
We have an opportunity to get together for an end of year social for members, partners and children on SUNDAY, 12TH DECEMBER, 4.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. We will confirm the inside/outside venue shortly, but it will be a BYO plate to add to the ‘share’ table and BYO drinks. Tea/Coffee and snacks will be provided. More detail to follow, but put this date in your diaries!! It will be really good to at least catch up with one another face to face even if we haven't sung a note for months!!!
(Note: to attend this event, all eligible attendees will need to be double vaccinated, as per the information above.)
FAMILY LIFE HAMPERS
Some donations have been received (thank you!!) If you too would like to join in this drive to assist Family Life in their continuous efforts to help those less fortunate than ourselves, please drop off your offerings before Thursday, 18th November to:
Maggie (60 Herbert Street, Parkdale - )
Pat (178 Were Street, Brighton East - )
Pat (178 Were Street, Brighton East - )
Containers are on the front porches to welcome your goodies. Maggie, Sylvia and I will make up the hampers and if necessary add some items not already included, and drop them off to Family Life in good time before the 1st December. Please select from any of these items, ensuring they are within use by date:
|
|
|
REMEMBRANCE DAY
As we approach the 11th hour of the 11th month, many of us will be thinking of those
who died whilst protecting our nations during wars and conflicts.
who died whilst protecting our nations during wars and conflicts.
Some of you have been knitting poppies to raise funds; look at Lidia’s creative abilities – I think she has since made many more than these!
Also here is a beautiful poem, (one of many of course which give us much food for thought.)
Also here is a beautiful poem, (one of many of course which give us much food for thought.)
“Lest We Forget”.
LOCKDOWN ACTION!
Many other talented Vocally Wilders have been really creative recently.
Look at Penny Wolf’s delightful painting of her partner Alan’s ‘Lockdown Hair”!
Penny now has an online shop featuring her artwork on many products. Here is the Google link:
PepeWatercolour.redbubble.com
Also,have you looked at the V.W. website recently?
Go to Home Page. Then ‘About Us’ - you’ll see Sue Hardy’s grand-daughter Rosie’s artwork. Rosie has the right sort of ambitions I feel!
That’s all for now, but more information will follow shortly regarding our Social gathering venue.
Cherry will send round a flyer.
Also, if there is news from Bayside Council about the possibility of us taking part in any local community outside Carol singing, I’ll be in touch with those who have said they’d like to be involved.
Let me know if you want to be added to the list!
Kind regards,
Pat and V.W. Committee.
patlow5@bigpond,.com
IF YOU WISH TO RESPOND TO ANY NEWSLETTER ITEMS, PLEASE EMAIL THE COMMITTEE MEMBER DIRECT (ADDRESSES ABOVE) RATHER THAN VIA THE HARMONY WEBSITE. THANK YOU !
NEWSLETTER - SEPTEMBER, 2021
Mon, 20 Sep 2021|
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Patrice Marshall - (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) 0409 090448 Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) 0437 697 009 Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) 0458 669 883 Sylvia Ring
Kerry Holmquest
|
Hello everyone!
This is a 'keeping in touch' newsletter - sorry but that's all we can do at the moment. News doesn't look too good for choirs in Victoria, alhough the general direction regarding vaccination levels is moving upwards week by week.. Apparently South Australia doesn't permit choirs to sing indoors yet, without a mask, so we still have a little way to go! Our newly acquired piano is sitting there waiting patiently for Patrice to come along and give it some of her brilliant attention!
Sadly, at the end of August, Bob Adams, a kind, friendly, lovely man, and enthusiastic Broken Voices and Vocally Wild member some years ago, passed away after being unwell for a little while. Bob was an original chorister with our choirs and so loved singing; he had a beautiful voice. He actually went on to sing with one of the Melbourne classical choirs and in the early days, when V.W. numbers weren't so large, returned to join us for Carols in the Park on some occasions. A message of condolence was sent to Wendy and family from us all.
It was disappointing that we couldn't take part in Connor's Run this year - it being cancelled, as we had expected. However, it should be all systems go for a bigger and better occasion in 2022.
Did any of you see the recent Bayside Council video about the Thomas Street Park, Hampton? Our very own John Barlow had a starring role - great John! What a wonderful asset to the community this park is (and you too of course, John) - there's something for everyone there!
Message from Cherry
Dear Members,
It's so disappointing that we can't sing our cares away at present. Fingers crossed we'll be back together again this year. Please be assured that the time we've missed will be reflected in our fees going forward. In the meantime, do think of choir and have a bit of a sing to our practice songs. If you can't access our website for any reason, please don't hesitate to contact me and I'll reset your Login.
Warmest,
Cherry (Membership Secretary)
cherry@chyam.com.au
Message from Bill and Patrice
Bill and Patrice send their very good wishes, they are thinking of you all and looking forward to returning when possible. They both say "Stay safe and well."
As spring has arrived, with 'sun and
shower and blossom',
let's hopeyou are all feeling positive and looking forward to better things.
Here's a touch of Leunig to add to our spring feelings!
Do keep in touch, hang in there, and enjoy
all the beautiful music around us.
For example, Marg Brown sent me a
wonderful video of Handel's Hallelujah Choris with a difference. I'm unable to add it to this Newsletter, but for your enjoyment will send it as an attachment in an email shortly.
Good thoughts to you all and if you would like to share any news in a newsletter, do let one of us know..
Pat and the Committee.
NEWSLETTER - AUGUST, 2021
Thu, 19 Aug 2021
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Patrice Marshall - (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
Sylvia Ring
Kerry Holmquest
Patrice Marshall - (Accompanist)
Russel Barnes (President)
Julie Sergienko (Treasurer)
Pat Lowry (Secretary)
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management)
Sylvia Ring
Kerry Holmquest
Hello everyone,
This is a 'keeping in touch' newsletter - sorry I can't announce a 'getting togethre' date yet, but this is to say hope you are all doing ok and making the most of this current situation the best you can!
We do have some lovely news though! Let me tell you the "Piano' story!!
"OPTIMISM"
As you know, we haven't had the use of a piano in our Beaumaris venue and Patrice was doing wonderful things with the Yamaha Keyboard. However, we wanted her to have a piano - Patrice and the Piano just go together, - so, we started planning how we could get one, investigating prices etc. Firstly, we had to receive permission from Bayside Council and, thankfully,they confirmed we could place one in the hall, as long as we agreed to protect it, be responsible for any damage, etc. Great news!
Second! Acquiring one! Russel had said originally that he owned an 'old' piano that he had been given, but he didn't think it was good enough! So, Maggie nominated her amazing "engineer/musician/organ-fixer extraordinaire/fix everything" Rod (who is a very active member of the Organ Society of Australia, Victorian Branch) to go to Russel's and check the piano out. He did this and gave it a definite thumbs up! Next was to ask Patrice to try it out. This she did, taking along her twin sister Joan. Russel thoroughly enjoyed their beautiful 'duet' live concert and was thrilled when Patrice and Joan gave their approval!
Third step (amidst lockdown) as you can see 'Optimism' (Russel's name for the piano) was moved to the Beaumaris Hall, and as soon as is safe, we will arrange for a piano tuner.
Sorry this is becoming the 'dog's tail' story - but then we needed a piano stool for Patrice! Well, believe it or not, Russel was out on his bike and saw one on a nature strip! "Ideal." he thought, (mechanics working well, just needed a bit of upholstery work). So, he took it home! Voila! (Upholstery work is now being carried out as we speak!.
In the meantime, Russel had ordered a cover on line, which has now arrived and we 're considering how to secure and label it. So, all we have left to do is get back to choir and sing! Perhaps a bottle of champers is needed for Optimism's Christening when the time comes!
CONNOR'S RUN
Susie Forbes, who is organising Connor's Run for 12th September, has been in touch.. The Run hasn't yet been cancelled, but she's not confident that it will go ahead. However, if it does, she has changed our location to the front of the South Melbourne Life Saving Club, where she thinks we will be better protected from the winds (remember last time?); More on this in due course.
POPPIES
Rose Olson (Kate's mum) is organising Red or Purple poppies to be sold for 'Remembrance Day' (11th November) to raise money for Legacy. Legacy is a wonderful organisation which looks after soldiers and their families. If you are happy to knit or crochet any poppies, Rose would be so grateful. She has quite a number of the red now, but is keen to have more purple ones. The purple poppies represent all the animals that have been slaughtered in all wars - horses, donkeys, dogs, pigeons. It's a wonderful gesture and if you'd like to help, please contact Rose on rosie@hillgrove.com. (Rose has some purple wool if you need any. The purple ones usually have a black or green centre; the red ones have a black centre). I have a knitting pattern if you would like a copy.
AUSSIE MUSIC
Creative Learning, Arts Centre, Melbourne, have generously provided us with free Aussie music arrangements, which we have gratefully saved for a time when we can sing again! The songs are: 'Don't Dream it's Over', 'Leaps and Bounds', 'You're the Voice' and 'Keep a Dream in your Pocket'. Can't wait to exercise our vocal chords again!!
MEETING
The Committee will have a 'zoom' meeting on the 25th August, so if there is anything you'd like to mention or ask, please let one of us know. We all miss choir and look forward to being together again.
STAY POSITIVE
Did you happen to hear Dr. Steven (not sure of his surname), Mental Health practitioner last week on the ABC morning radio? He had some excellent positive messages and did recommend that we try to look on positive side and not to get too bogged down into the negatives. Pretty sound advice if we can do it. Penny Wolfe and Sylvia Ring have wonderful ways of keeping calm and carrying on! See Penny Wolfe's beautiful gum flower followed by Sylvia's Central Australia painting. Amazing.
A couple of cartoons to cheer you up, especially if you're dog lover!
TAKE CARE.
TRY TO KEEP SINGING.
PS - if you want a bit more of a giggle, see the attached "Eating in the Fifties". I can definitely relate!
Kindest regards,
Pat.
....
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - JULY, 2021
Sat, 17 Jul 2021| Bill Miles (Music Director) Patrice Marshall - (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) Sylvia Ring Kerry Holmquest |
As we continue getting used to being 'flexible', none of you will be surprised to hear from me that we can't meet next Tuesday for our choir rehearsal - let's hope there's more positive news for the following week.
There's not a lot of news this month and, as we had our A.G.M. last Monday, Committee decided to skip our regular monthly meeting in July and meet up again in August. However, as many of you heard from Russel last Tuesday, there are two vacancies on Committee, so if you are at all interested in joining this very amiable and active group, please give it a bit of thought; we’d love to recruit fresh faces bringing new ideas and diversity. If you are a little uncertain, you would be most welcome to come along to one of our congenial meetings to see what goes on! Please let one of the Committee members know if you'd like to 'try before you buy'!
A.G.M.
Last Monday the A.G.M. was held in the Beaumaris Tennis Club Rooms - an ideal venue and thank you to Russel for organising it. Grateful thanks to the small group of non-committee who also ventured out on that wet, chilly night - much appreciated - we were very pleased to achieve a quorum!! If anyone would like copies of the Minutes or any of the Reports therein, please let me know on Pat@ and I'll forward them on to you.
Thanks are also extended to outgoing Committee members, Edwina and Graham, for their invaluable contributions. The current 2021/22 Committee members are as printed in the table above. "Welcome back" to all of the elected members - it is a busy but most enjoyable role endeavouring to care for this large and enthusiastic group of choristers! Vocally Wild Choir Inc. is a wonderful community group and a joy to belong to!
MEMBERSHIP
Cherry has been very busy lately with membership and fees management - she does a sterling job and is most appreciated. Last Tuesday Bill warmly welcomed new members, and guests who, hopefully, may soon be members. We do look forward to you all enjoying and sharing the singing, music and companionship!
VACCINATION
This topic is a continuing one, but as we 'journey' on in this Covid world of ours, we are very keen to ensure the safety, confidence and comfort of all our members, With this in mind, and of course we can't regulate, we strongly encourage vaccination and feel that vaccination of the majority (at least 80 to 90% of us) is highly desirable.
SHEET MUSIC
Maggie reminds us that if we have any unwanted sheet music, doubling up of copies, etc., in particular Christmas carols and songs, please return them to the music table on Tuesday nights. They get sorted, filed and reused when needed. This saves a lot of paper and money re printing, so, while we have some lock-down time, perhaps we could check our music drawers, folders, boxes! Thank you!
Talking of music/folders, etc. ... if you haven't put your name on your music folder, it might be worth doing. Sometimes folders are left behind and it's so much easier to return them to their owners!!
LOOK WHO'S BEEN BUSY!
Jan Gooding, Alto and long-time member of Vocally
Wild,
is also an artist. She is a member of the GlenEira Cheltenham Art Group which, under normal
circumstances, holds a couple of exhibitions every year, plus they join with other art groups exhibiting
at the Flower and Garden Show.
Last year the artists were given short notice to include
entries for the Glen Eira Exhibition. Here are a couple
of Jan's creations, both in pastel - one is in Bayside
Beaumaris and the other is a sunset. Beautiful!
Thank you Jan.
WHAT'S HAPPENING SOON?
Well, it’s difficult to plan ahead at the moment, but
Jenny Ellison's group, Kirby JZ and Me
are playing a 'gig' on
Friday, 30th July, 7.30 p.m. at the
Black Rock Sports Club.
"Reinventing the Songs You Love -
With A Touch of Sax!”
Do give it a go - there will be food trucks with 'dinner' and drinks at bar prices.
are playing a 'gig' on
Friday, 30th July, 7.30 p.m. at the
Black Rock Sports Club.
"Reinventing the Songs You Love -
With A Touch of Sax!”
Do give it a go - there will be food trucks with 'dinner' and drinks at bar prices.
Hope to see you all soon - fingers crossed for Tuesday, 27th July! (If you have any hidden or 'out there' talents you'd like to share, do let me know!!)
Kindest regards,
Pat
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - JUNE, 2021
Fri, 25 Jun 2021|
Bill Miles (Music Director)
Patrice Marshall - (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) 0409 090448 Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) 0437 697 009 Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary |
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) 0458 669 883 Edwina McLachlan (Music Liaison) Sylvia Ring 0402 217 344 Kerry Holmquest |
Dear Members,
At the time of writing, and if all our stars are in alignment and Bayside Council’s regulations allow it, we should all be singing again on Tuesday, 13th July for Term 3, at Beaumaris Community Hall, 7.30 p.m. So, unless you hear from us to the contrary, see you there! (Bill has some exciting new/old music for us, see details below).
Don’t forget to bring your keep cup! Also, Rob Tunnock will be joining us on our first night back to take some photos for our Website, so please wear something bright and cheerful!!
The A.G.M. will be going ahead on Monday, 12th July, 7.30 p.m. at the Beaumaris Community Tennis Clubroom, which is adjacent to the car park. Please come along if you are able to and if you would like to nominate someone for Committee, this is a good opportunity.
DIARY
| TERM 3 | |
| (Tues. 13th Jul. – Tues. 14th Sept). | |
| Sunday, 12th September | Connor’s Run, singing engagement. Details TBC |
I won’t repeat our full Calendar here, but please note that there has been a change to our Concert date. Unfortunately, we couldn’t book the Brighton Town Hall for Sunday, 29th November (no bookings available there for November or December this year), so our Concert will now be held on our last Tuesday rehearsal night, Tuesday, 7th December, at our rehearsal hall in Beaumaris, 7.30 p.m. It will be a Christmas theme. Even if we are hindered because of Covid during the next few months, we will certainly be able to string together some Christmas Carols and Songs and, along with the beautiful songs we are learning at the moment, this should be a joyous ending to the year.
Please note also that the dates mentioned for our Carols in the Park rehearsals and performance are tentative at the moment. We have had no confirmation yet that Carols will be going ahead at this stage, which is perfectly understandable. However, we will let you know as soon as there is some news.
FROM OUR MUSIC DIRECTOR
Bill has been busy arranging a ‘Crazy for You’ Medley for us to learn in the coming weeks. Maggie will bring along the sheet music at the start of term and Bill asks if you could please (particularly Sops 2, Alto and Tenor) bring a highlighter pen with you so that when he explains which pieces of music are relevant for these parts, you can highlight them. Bill will have created practice recordings too, so this is something else to look forward to.
Bill is also keen to follow up on an offer to us from The Australian Music Vault, who are involved with a project providing free music arrangements for community and school choirs to encourage more people to sing great Australian music.
We will be guided by the songs you would like to sing from the list below, so please let me know which ones appeal to you:
John Farnham “You’re The Voice”
Drapht “The Magic”
Crowded House “Don’t Dream It’s Over”
Sia “Diamonds”
Emily Wurramara “Black Boy”
The Seekers “Keep a Dream in Your Pocket”
Killing Heidi “Weir”
Paul Kelly “Leaps and Bounds”
MEMBERSHIP (Message from Cherry)
Payment for Semester 2
Invoices for Semester 2 (Terms 3 & 4) will be coming soon. Since we only attended for half of Term 2, the Committee has decided to charge pro rata fees for this Semester to compensate all those who paid full fees for Term 2. Therefore, instead of $160.00 for the six months, those members will be invoiced $120.00. If you have any queries about this, please don’t hesitate to contact our Membership Secretary, Cherry Tunnock
Thanks Cherry. Not many of you will realise what a busy role Membership Secretary is. Cherry is very dedicated and does a wonderful job looking after everything to do with membership with everyone’s interests at heart: managing the intricacies of the Waiting List, arranging for new member arrivals, name badges, recording attendances, etc. Cherry is also in the process of preparing a Vocally Wild archive, both digital and hard copy, covering all relevant documents so that these can be accessed by current and future committees. Once again, thank you Cherry.
To end on a lighter note:
........this is a hoot (for those of us who have
Facebook concerns!!
See you very soon.
Please email me on patlow5@bigpond regarding your Australian song choices!!
Kind regards,
Pat.and the Committee.
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - MAY, 2021
Thu, 20 May 2021| Bill Miles (Music Director) Patrice Marshall (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) 0409 090448 Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) 0437 697 009 |
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) 0458 669 883 Edwina McLachlan (Music Liaison) Sylvia Ring Kerry Holmquest |
Dear Members,
What a shame we had to call last Tuesday off - a huge thank you to Cherry who tootled along to put a notice on the door! Hope most of you received the sms and email messages. Oh well, a bit more time for us to practise our songs! Fingers crossed that this is just a slight blip and we'll soon be able to announce our return. Bill has been working on some terrific music for us - so there's a great deal to look forward to.
Apart from this latest Covid concern, it's been a wonderful start to the term. We seem to be settling into our new rehearsal space well and most of you will appreciate the safe parking spaces and easy access. Thank you to all our helpers with setting up and clearing away. Cherry's start-up chair roster worked well and Russel appears to have a willing band of technical assistants. Although the chairs are very comfortable, they are a little on the heavy side, so please take care when lifting them; we recommend only lift one at a time.
Carolyn brings along milk each week; there is a plentiful supply of tea, green tea, coffee, etc. so don't forget to BRING YOUR OWN CUP if you want a cuppa during the break. We don't want to purchase disposable cups, in our endeavour to save the planet (!), so please try to remember!
It's always such a pleasure to welcome our new members and we hope that Sandra Busch (alto), Helen Kezilas (alto) and Geoff Peters plus of course our returned members, Sue McBeth (top sop) and Sarah McVeigh (top sop) are all settling in. We have a healthy 'waiting list' and over a dozen members are on leave of absence this term. Please see Cherry's report below.
Bill and his son Jamie are very proactive in providing our practice recordings, so hopefully you will all now be able to access them on either the Vocally Wild website (Harmony) or via your emails. Bill has provided some very useful hints on how to make the most of these recordings (see below). Please let me know if you are having any access problems.
DIARY
Please note the change of date for our Annual General Meeting - now on Monday, 21st June, 7.30 p.m. to be held at the Beaumaris Community Tennis Club (next to the main Community building). Nominations are called for regarding Committee positions, so if you would like to nominate someone, on our return, please use one of the nomination slips at the entrance table and place your nominations in the box provided. Or you can nominate by email if you wish.
| Note: Bayside Carols Rehearsals/Event - all TBC and info only at this stage | |
| TERM 2 | |
| Mon. 21st June | A.G.M. 7.30. Beaumaris Community Centre T.Club |
| Tuesday, 22nd June | Last rehearsal for Term 1 – singing and social |
| TERM 3 | |
| (Tues. 13th Jul. – Tues. 14th Sept). | |
| Sunday, 12th September | Connor’s Run, singing engagement. Details TBC |
| TERM 4 | |
| (Tues. 5th Oct. to Tues. 7th Dec.) | |
| Tues. 2nd November | Cup Day, No rehearsal. |
| Sat. 20th Nov. (Carols reh.) | Morning |
| Sat. 27th Nov. (Carols reh.) | Morning |
| Sunday, 28th Nov. | V.W. Annual Concert, Brighton Town Hall (TBC) |
| Sat. 4th Dec. (Carols reh.) | Morning |
| Tues. 7th Dec. | Last Tues. rehearsal for year. |
| Sat 11th Dec. (Carols reh.) | Morning. |
| Sun or Mon 12th/13th Dec. | Final full rehearsal. |
| Tuesday, 14th December | Bayside Carols in the Park (Dendy) |
| Other carols fixtures to be advised. | |
FROM OUR MUSIC DIRECTOR
We are extremely fortunate that Bill's teenage son is able to make the recordings for us - thank you from us all to Jamie who really does spend hours working on these pieces. Bill is very keen for us to make the most of these gems and I'm sure once you have got used to the process, you'll find them so helpful. Here are Bill's hints:
How to get the most out of the mp3 practice recordings
- Listen to the combined recording while following the printed music.
- While reading the music, listen to the recording for your part.
- Sing along with the recording of your part (while reading the music, of course).
- Sing your part with the combined recording.
- Play the recording for a part other than your own and sing your part with it.
- Consult the printed music with a view to establishing where your “entry note” is ‘coming from’ … the piano, another section (soprano, alto, baritone, tenor or bass), the same note that you sang recently / a specific interval distance away (major 3rd up or down / perfect 4th up or down, etc.) from the last note you sang (if none of the above can be used, that is). Once you work with the rehearsal recordings you will have a pretty good awareness of your part(s) so that when you come to rehearsal, not as much time will be needed for going over the separate parts; you will soon come to appreciate the significant worth of having individualised practice parts, as well as the combined recordings.
Hi Vocally Wilders,
This is a forewarning of changes coming to how our fees are paid. Our Choir members are fortunate to belong to such a well-run, professional style choir and due to our membership size, the fees are extremely reasonable.
There is no intention of increasing fees at this present time. However, the Committee has decided that as from Term 3, 2021 fees will no longer be payable by term and only bi-annual or annual fees will apply.
Therefore, the coming June invoices will cover Term 3 and Term 4 (six months) membership - $160. Of course, if you paid annually for 2020, you’re still in credit until the end of the year.
Kind regards, Cherry.
WEBSITE
The Vocally Wild website is in the process of having an update. I’m hoping to upload more photos for the slide show (Home) so if you have any that you’d like to see up there, please send them along. Thanks.
CREATIVE MEMBERS
Sylvia was following her dreams in the last lockdown and here are two of her many creations. The parrot has a very cross look in his eyes! Wonder what Sylvia will come up with next – maybe something new this week?!!
For all you dog lovers and walkers:
Take care during this current lockdown - if you hear of anyone who needs a bit of help, please let one of us know.
Fingers crossed we can return to normal again soon.
Cheers for now,
Pat and all Committee.
(0437 697 009)
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - APRIL 2021
Fri, 23 Apr 2021| Bill Miles (Music Director) Patrice Marshall - (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) 0409 090448 Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) 0437 697 009 |
Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary) Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) 0458 669 883 Edwina McLachlan (Music Liaison) Sylvia Ring 0402 217 344 Kerry Holmquest |
What a happy and successful start to Term 2! 67 of us met to sing with gusto! We were fortunate to have two extremely talented and well qualified aspirants audition for our Music Director role and are now delighted to announce that Dr. Bill Miles was comprehensively selected by you as our new M.D. If you wish to view Bill’s profile it will be available shortly on the Vocally Wild Website – vocallywild.org.au
Bill will commence with us next Tuesday, 27th April and we all wish him a long and happy relationship with Vocally Wild. (See another aspect of Bill’s musical life below - under 3MBS Radio).
We are of course delighted that Patrice will continue as our accompanist and thanks indeed go to Fran for being our excellent M.C. last Tuesday evening. Fran will surely be called upon again!!!
A very warm welcome is extended to our new and returning members – Sarah McVeigh (1st Sop), Sandra Busch (Alto) and Ian Littlehales. We hope you enjoy your association with us. Some additional new members will be announced shortly.
Our new venue, Beaumaris Community Centre, proved to be more than adequate last Tuesday; it’s a warm, inviting hall with good amenities, safe car parking and easy access, so we hope you all find it a good place to be. The acoustics appear to be fine too.
Please remember to bring your own cup if you want to have a cup of tea or coffee at rehearsals.
HELP NEEDED - Chair Roster Volunteers (from Cherry)
We need volunteers to assist putting out chairs at the beginning of the evening. Please Contact Cherry – cherry@cham.com.au – ASAP to volunteer. Hopefully you will only be rostered two or three times per term if plenty of people volunteer.
Whilst being very comfy, the chairs are a little heavy and should only be carried one at a time for safety reasons. So, four volunteers per night will be rostered. You will need to arrive by 7.10pm at the latest.
Also, please let Cherry know if you want to be rostered on with particular friends.
Thank you, in anticipation.
CALENDAR 2021
Some diary dates to start us off! At this stage the Bayside Carols in the Park dates are tentative, but the schedule will give you, and especially our newcomers, an idea of some of this year’s commitments. These will be confirmed in due course.
| DIARY | |
| TERM 2 | |
| Tues 20th April to Tues. 22nd June | Bill Miles (M.D.) commences 27th April |
| Sunday, 25th April | B.R.S.C. ANZAC Family Day, 1.00 p.m. |
| Wed. 23rd June | A.G.M. 7.30 p.m. Venue TBA |
| TERM 3 | |
| Tues. 13th July to Tues. 14th Sept. | |
| TERM 4 | |
| Tues. 5th Oct. to Tues.7th Dec. | |
| Sun. 12th September | Connor’s Run - Choir to Sing |
| Tues. 2nd November | Cup Day, No rehearsal. |
| Bayside Carols Rehearsals/Event | (TBC and info only at this stage) |
| Sat. 20th Nov. TBC | Morning |
| Sat. 27th Nov. | Morning |
| Sat. 4th Dec. | Morning |
| Tues. 7th Dec. | Last Tues. rehearsal for year. |
| Sat 11th Dec. | Morning. |
| Sun or Mon 12th/13th Dec. | Final full rehearsal. |
| Tuesday, 14th December | Bayside Carols in the Park (Dendy) |
| Other carols fixtures to be advised. | |
BEAUMARIS RSL ANZAC SERVICE
Thank you to the 45 or so Vocally Wilders who marched and sang at the Beaumaris RSL ANZAC Parade and Service. This was a very successful event with good attendance and much favourable comment was attributed to Vocally Wild and the St. Leonard’s College Band. Bill’s contribution was immeasurable – he certainly ‘raised us up’ for the occasion.
Thank you also to Sue Beazley for her liaison with the RSL. Sue reported that the Beaumaris RSL was very happy with the turnout on Sunday; she also confirmed the many compliments from those in authority, councillors (including The Mayor) and audience members regarding the performance of Vocally Wild, the St. Leonard’s Band and respective leaders Bill Miles and Mark Ford.
Bill, you led us so professionally and enthusiastically; we all appreciate how willingly you made yourself available to us when we were leaderless!!!
The Service was followed by afternoon tea at the Beaumaris Bowls Club, and thanks are sincerely extended to Reg Black and all the helpers from the Beaumaris RSL Ladies Auxiliary. They are a dedicated and fabulous group who always put on a splendid spread; in fact thanks go to everyone concerned at the Bowls Club. Vocally Wild, on your behalf, donated $60 to the Ladies’ Auxiliary - a book was purchased which is to be presented to a local school.
BLACK ROCK SPORTS CLUB ANZAC DAY – THIS SUNDAY
We have been invited to sing the two National Anthems (Australian and New Zealand) at 1.00 p.m. so if you
are available and would like to join in, please come along at 12.30 p.m. for warm up. Wear black, with poppy if possible. We will be backed by ‘Harry’ on piano. There’ll be plenty of food and entertainment throughout the afternoon. BILL MILES AND “THE 3MBS FM RADIO STATION”
Do you listen to 3MBS Radio? It’s a wonderful ‘community’ classical music station which caters for all types of classical music, including jazz, light classical, easy listening radio music from the 30’s to the 70’s, film music, some live concerts and ‘feature’ programmes.
So, if you would like to hear and enjoy more from Bill, he presents a programme every Sunday night from10.00 til midnight called, not surprisingly, ‘Sunday Night Late’. His brief is ‘hidden gems’ - lesser known music from known composers, music from lesser-known composers and hidden gem recordings. Bill includes plenty of music by Australians and performances by Australian musicians.
The program is broadcast on 103.5 FM, 3MBS - Fine Music Melbourne, and is also streamed over the internet.
This is the link to the home page ~ https://3mbs.org.au/. Once it opens, right click on the blue box labelled "3MBS 103.5 FM" ("Now Playing" will show "Sunday Night Late" starting from 10pm). The "how-to-play" window will open which instructs one to click on the play button (arrow/triangle) at the bottom and start listening. If you would like to hear previous programs, here is the direct link ~ https://3mbs.org.au/programs/sunday-night-late/.
MEMBERSHIP – FEES
We don’t like to lose anyone from our V.W. membership, but if it becomes clear that sadly you won’t be able to return to Choir at any stage, please could you advise Cherry so that one of the many very patient people on her waiting list can be offered a place? Thank you.
Notices
If you don't appear to be receiving notices re fees or any other items recently, please check your Junk Mail or Spam – the inactivity during time out last year may have made your computer forget about us!!
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Now is an opportune time to remind you that V.W. Committee meetings are held on the 3rd Wednesday of the month, so if you have anything you wish to be discussed, please let a Committee member know.
FOR INTEREST - Free Concert
University of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra - 5.00 p.m. 2nd May, Hamer Hall. Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev and Britten feature in this exciting return to Hamer Hall by the University of Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, led by world-renowned conductor Associate Professor Richard Davis. For more details contact artscentremelbourne.com.au
TALENTED MEMBERS
We have so many amazing people in our midst – have a look at these paintings by Judy Bellesini!
If you would like to share what you’ve been up to during the COVID time-out, do let me know!
And last, but not least, check this wonderful video clip from Rad https://youtu.be/_vvMTlDr7jw This young fellow has definitely been signed up as Bill’s deputy whenever he is needed!!!
Thank you and see you either on Sunday, or next Tuesday.
Cheers,
Pat Lowry
0437697009
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - MARCH, 2021
Fri, 26 Mar 2021VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - FEBRUARY, 2021
Fri, 26 Feb 2021| Patrice Marshall - (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) 0409 090448 Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) 0437 697 009 Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary) |
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) 0458 669 883 Edwina McLachlan Sylvia Ring 0402 217 344 Kerry Holmquest h |
Hello!
Many of you were disappointed that we couldn’t resume Choir this week, but things are now looking positive for Term 2 and we are very happy to announce that we will be taking our usual part in the Beaumaris RSL ANZAC Parade and Service – see more detail below.
V.W. MUSIC DIRECTOR
Firstly, we have commenced our ‘recruitment’ campaign for our new M.D. - you may have seen the advertisement in various places. The deadline for applications is Friday, 12th March, so hopefully we will have our new Director early in Term 2.
ANZAC PARADE AND SERVICE – SUNDAY, 18TH APRIL
As mentioned, we are thrilled that the Beaumaris ANZAC event will go ahead and we have the privilege, once again, in being asked to take part in this very special and significant community event.
We are particularly pleased that our choir leader for the parade and service, and for the two rehearsals, will be Bill Miles. Bill is a candidate for the M.D. role and he has kindly agreed to help us out. This is an ideal opportunity for him to find out a little about us at Vocally Wild, and of course a perfect ‘audition’ opportunity for us all.
Bill will rehearse with us at 7.30 p.m. on:
- Tuesday, 23rd March, and
- Wednesday, 31st March (Tuesday 30th not suitable)
- O God Our Help in Ages Past
- Eternal Father Strong to Save (Naval Hymn)
- Song of Australia
- I Am Australian
- My Country
- New Zealand National Anthem
- Australian National Anthem
We will sing most of the songs with the St. Leonard’s School Band, led by Mark Ford. Patrice will also be accompanying us, so it will be like old times again!
The confirmed programme will be forwarded in due course, but we are likely to meet, as usual, at the Beaumaris Community Centre at approximately 1.45 p.m. for rehearsal with the Band.
We will ask you to please wear the usual black (long sleeves and skirt/trousers) and if you have a ‘poppy’ it would be very special if you could wear it. There are many knitted poppy patterns around, if you want to make one. If you don’t have a pattern, let me know, I have a good, easy one. (If you really can’t knit and would like one, let me know and I’ll knit it for you, they don’t take long – community service!!!)
The Committee and all concerned hope you will come along to the rehearsals and take part in this community event – it is always a meaningful thing to do. If you’re unable to attend on the 18th April, but still would like to have a ‘sing’, do come along to the rehearsals anyway.
A BIT OF OPTIMISM
Reading that we are about to start up again should certainly help with those Covid ‘doldrums’ but if that’s not enough, our wonderful ‘vintage’ Leunig hits the right note here:
Also, along this theme, enjoy the link
provided by Jeannie Marsh, confirming the joy and pleasure for us all in music. Jeanie is a busy and very talented musician and choir leader.
Please watch out for more information coming to your 'gadget' soon!
Kindest regards,
Pat Lowry
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - JANUARY, 2021
Sun, 24 Jan 2021VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - DECEMBER, 2020
Sun, 13 Dec 2020| Patrice Marshall - (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) 0409 090 448 Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) 0437 697 009 Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary) |
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) 0458 669 883 Edwina McLachlan Graham Mitchell Sylvia Ring Kerry Holmquest |
This is our final newsletter for 2020 and I'm sure most of us will not be saddened by the passing of 2020, 2021 looks hopeful, and by all accounts it seems everyone is keen to resume singing as early as safely possible. Therefore, the Committee is currently checking out suitable premises or locations, bearing in mind the health and safety regulations concerning spacing, airflow, ventilaton, etc., and we are happy to announce it is our intention for Vocally Wild Choir to commence Term 1, 2021 on Tuesday, 2nd February, 2021, 7.30 p.m. This will be at suitable premises, either inside or outside (whilst weather still good) as long as the Covid health regulations at the time allow it. The venue will be announced as soon as possible.
An advertisement putting out feelers for our new Choir Director has been created and will be placed in appropriate publications this month, so we look forward to meeting some keen applicants in the new year. You will, of course, be kept informed of progress in this regard. All going well, there could be a 'short list' by the start of February, so prior to appointing our new leader, we will most likely start Term 1 with some happy 'sing-alongs' to get us back "in the mood". In fact, see below what we plan to do with our own, very enthusiastic, John Smith's terrific musical suggestion!!!
Even though most of the year has been all quiet on the Choir front, the last few weeks have had a bit of a buzz about them and we can report on a few of these activities
"ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS YOU' ZOOM CAROLS"
By all accounts, everyone who attended agreed that the Zoom was a great success. Approximately 52 gadjets tuned in, resulting in an attendance of around 60 to 65 or more. It was an excellent, cheerful, fun-filled programme and the Committee is so appreciative of Dianne’s excellent planning and co-ordination, enthusiasm, dedication and generous assistance to the guest singers (and from the positive feed back, all who attended feel the same way too). The Vocally Wild members who sang and presented were amazing; Dianne, Fran, Lesley, Jenny, Teresa, and of course, our wonderful Robert, glorious Katherine Gale and Diana, who said her farewells to us. You are all warmly congratulated on your talent, confidence and evident joy at being involved. Wasn't Fran a wonderful M.C? (No point in hiding away Fran, all eyes will be on you for future performances!!!???) Did you spot Pattie and Shirley, our two wonderful ex-Vocally Wilders? So good to see you there.
To top it all, Robert let it be known that he was already planning the 2021 Carols in the Park!!! This news was received with great enthusiasm.
SOCIAL GET-TOGETHER, BEAUMARIS SEA SCOUTS HALL
Many thanks to Sylvia and Miranda (and their husbands!!) for organising the venue for this perfect end of year get-together and making it look so festive. It was a very successful event with an excellent attendance of around 55. Last Sunday afternoon had been hot, but by the time we gathered with our chairs, picnic tables, bottles, glasses, snacks and Christmas cheer, the golden late sun was warm, the birds were singing and everyone had a very pleasant two and a half hours basking in all this glory! It was so good to see so many choir faces and enjoy the friendship and congenial atmosphere.
BLACK ROCK SPORTS CLUB CAROLS
Lidia was asked, at short notice, if Vocally Wild could provide a small choir to sing Carols at the Black Rock Sports Club on Friday, 18th December, at their Christmas Party. In her typical enthusiastic style, Lidia rounded up a group of about 11 or more singers, including Jenny Ellison, who will be doing a couple of solos with her guitar. This event takes place tomorrow night. The programme looks interesting, includijg a professional pianist, trumpeters, soloists, and us!! This should be a fun time for those taking part and, as Black Rock Sports Club has been very accommodating to us in the past, we are very happy to be joining in and supporting them.
JOHN SMITH - “A PLACE IN THE CHOIR”
Our loyal and enthusiastic John contacted Julie recently with a hope that the Choir might learn to sing a song by Celtic Thunder, “A Place in the Choir” which depicts animals’ places in the choir. The Committee was very enthusiastic and have decided to adopt this song as our 'Vocally Wild Anthem', which we will learn and sing at rehearsal meetings, concerts, etc. or whenever/wherever the occasion demands it! The lyrics are printed below. Hopefully we will be able to source the choral sheet music. It is a delightful, simple, catchy song and we feel it will be perfect for us. Thank you John, it was a brilliant move on your part!
So, how about listening to it and starting to sing along, ready for early February?!
A Place in the Choir - YouTube www.youtube.com › watch).
A PLACE IN THE CHOIR (Celtic Thunder)
All God's creatures got a place in the choir
Some sing low and some sing higher,
Some sing out loud on a telephone wire,
Some just clap their hands, or paws, or anything they've got now
All God's creatures got a place in the choir
Some sing low and some sing higher,
Some sing out loud on a telephone wire,
Some just clap their hands, or paws, or anything they've got now
Listen to the top where the little bird sings
On the melodies and the high notes ringing,
And the hoot owl cries over everything
And the blackbird disagrees
Singing in the night time, singing in the day,
When little duck quacks, and he's on his way
And the otter hasn't got much to say
And the porcupine talks to himself
All God's creatures got a place in the choir
Some sing low and some sing…
All God's creatures got a place in the choir
Some sing low and some sing higher,
Some sing out loud on a telephone wire,
Some just clap their hands, or paws, or anything they've got now
All God's creatures got a place in the choir
Some sing low and some sing higher,
Some sing out loud on a telephone wire,
Some just clap their hands, or paws, or anything they've got now
Listen to the top where the little bird sings
On the melodies and the high notes ringing,
And the hoot owl cries over everything
And the blackbird disagrees
Singing in the night time, singing in the day,
When little duck quacks, and he's on his way
And the otter hasn't got much to say
And the porcupine talks to himself
All God's creatures got a place in the choir
Some sing low and some sing…
Not sure if you're going away; but if nothing is planned, how about we all trail along after Leunig's little friends? Seems to me the perfect destination!!
Kindest regards,
Pat and all the Committee
(0437697 009 patlow5@bigpond.com)
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - NOVEMBER, 2020
Tue, 10 Nov 2020...
Hello everyone,
It was with spring in our steps that the committee met face to face yesterday (the first time without Zoom for months) and as we sat under the beautiful gum trees at Thomas Street Park, sipping coffee together with birdsong in the air, we had much to be optimistic about: relief about news of a certain election result, all these hard earned ‘doughnut’ days, together with the beautiful weather. There was a collective joy and feeling of relief; plus the optimism that we were about to work on a positive plan for Vocally Wild and 2021!
So, this is the latest from your hard-working committee:
FINANCES
Julie advises us that we are sound financially, with a healthy buffer to protect the choir from any possible ‘knowns or unknowns’! We are in the process of reviewing the fee structure for 2021 and currently happy to say there no plans to request any fees for the first term/semester 2021 until we are definite about how and when the choir will resume normal functioning. We are, of course, aware that many of you are in credit for Terms 1/2. Should we continue with Zoom singing, the costs of this will be covered.
REPLACEMENT OF CHOIR DIRECTOR AND FUTURE PLANS:
So make sure you’re ready to zoom in at 7.30 p.m. on the 8th December. We will let you know the link details in due course.
COMMUNITY CAROL SINGING
Unfortunately, due to the problems with distancing, rules regarding singing in numbers, even outside, and other uncertainties, we are unable to organise any community Carols singing this year as we have done in the past at aged care homes, street venues, seniors groups, etc. We even sang at the Rotary Market in the past, but due to strict guidelines, this too is not available to us. However, we thank those of you who have written to us, your suggestions were much appreciated.
Committee will have a final ‘in the park’ meeting on the 15th December and rest assured that we will all be focussed, to the best of our abilities, on how we can plan for a safe and active 2021 when we will hit the ground running with some joyful, happy songs! If you have any messages, questions, suggestions, please contact one of us prior to the 15th December.
Look forward to seeing as many of you as you possibly can at the Zoom on the 8th.
Kindest regards,
Pat.
| Patrice Marshall - Accompanist Russel Barnes (President) 0409 090 448 Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) 0437 697 009 Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary) |
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) 0458 669 883 Edwina McLachlan Graham Mitchell Sylvia Ring 0402 217 344 Kerry Holmquest |
Hello everyone,
It was with spring in our steps that the committee met face to face yesterday (the first time without Zoom for months) and as we sat under the beautiful gum trees at Thomas Street Park, sipping coffee together with birdsong in the air, we had much to be optimistic about: relief about news of a certain election result, all these hard earned ‘doughnut’ days, together with the beautiful weather. There was a collective joy and feeling of relief; plus the optimism that we were about to work on a positive plan for Vocally Wild and 2021!
So, this is the latest from your hard-working committee:
FINANCES
Julie advises us that we are sound financially, with a healthy buffer to protect the choir from any possible ‘knowns or unknowns’! We are in the process of reviewing the fee structure for 2021 and currently happy to say there no plans to request any fees for the first term/semester 2021 until we are definite about how and when the choir will resume normal functioning. We are, of course, aware that many of you are in credit for Terms 1/2. Should we continue with Zoom singing, the costs of this will be covered.
REPLACEMENT OF CHOIR DIRECTOR AND FUTURE PLANS:
- We will only return to regular Tuesday night meetings when we have been advised that it is safe to do so and when we are totally happy that our venue meets with spacing requirements, air flow and ventilation standards, etc. necessary for a large choir such as ours.
- In the meantime, we will be considering all options for 2021 and we feel that by December this year we will be ready to advertise for ‘Expressions of Interest” in the Music Director position. This will give us time to review our Vocally Wild ‘Aims and Objectives’ and formulate a plan to move forward. These of course will then be discussed with possible applicants.
- Since a Tuesday night start in early February is unlikely at this stage, as an interim measure we hope to be able to continue with our Zoom singalongs, similar to the Sing Wine Tea and Chat session Dianne ran so successfully for us in October and anticipate that something can be organised by the end of January or early February.
CHRISTMAS CAROLS ‘ZOOM,’ – TUESDAY, 8TH DECEMBER. 7.30 P.M.
Dianne is well under way with the planning for the Zoom Carols and we are really excited to announce that Katherine Gale will be our headline guest. You may remember we had the honour of singing with Katherine at the 2019 Bayside Carols in the Park. Katherine is a recent Bachelor of Music Graduate in Music Theatre; she is well known as an actor, versatile singer and dancer and it will be wonderful to see her again. But Katherine is not the only special guest!!! Diana and Dianne will also lead us in a carol or two and although I am not allowed to say at the moment, I know for a fact that many of you will be delighted with another very, extra special guest, who will remain anonymous for now!!So make sure you’re ready to zoom in at 7.30 p.m. on the 8th December. We will let you know the link details in due course.
VOCALLY WILD END OF YEAR GET-TOGETHER – IN PERSON!!!
SUNDAY, 13TH DECEMBER. 5.00 P.M.
Venue yet to be announced. Because of the safety precautions, we can’t arrange food, drink, or for the venue to be at a certain club venue, so we are looking at finding a suitable space in a park, perhaps with undercover facilities (this will have to be paid for, but costs will be covered by V.W.). We will all need to bring our own food, drink, nibbles, but it will be wonderful to be able to meet up and celebrate the end of this very challenging year in a much happier frame of mind. Further details to come.COMMUNITY CAROL SINGING
Unfortunately, due to the problems with distancing, rules regarding singing in numbers, even outside, and other uncertainties, we are unable to organise any community Carols singing this year as we have done in the past at aged care homes, street venues, seniors groups, etc. We even sang at the Rotary Market in the past, but due to strict guidelines, this too is not available to us. However, we thank those of you who have written to us, your suggestions were much appreciated.
Committee will have a final ‘in the park’ meeting on the 15th December and rest assured that we will all be focussed, to the best of our abilities, on how we can plan for a safe and active 2021 when we will hit the ground running with some joyful, happy songs! If you have any messages, questions, suggestions, please contact one of us prior to the 15th December.
Look forward to seeing as many of you as you possibly can at the Zoom on the 8th.
Kindest regards,
Pat.
NEWSLETTER - SEPTEMBER, 2020
Wed, 23 Sep 2020| Diana Clark de-Vries (Director of Music) Patrice Marshall (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary) |
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) Edwina McLachlan Graham Mitchell Sylvia Ring Kerry Holmquest |
Hello everyone ......
Let's have a 'Leunig news day' and now that things are iimprovin all our news is positive and kind - from the birds,, ducks, and curly people -
with thoughts of beauty, music,
flowers and mountains!To get in the spirit, thank you to so many of you for coming along to our Zoom Annual General Meeting earlier this month; it was wonderful to see so many faces and the meeting went very well. If you wish to see copies of financials or minutes, please let me know.
A warm welcome goes to our two new Committee Members - Sylvia Ring and Kerry Holmquest, who will be very valued members of the group that's for sure. A huge thank you goes to Jenny and Dianne, who retired from the Committee this year - they are both terrific Vocally Wild members who contributed enormously to Vocally Wild..
As you can imagine, there's not a lot to pass on at the moment, but we hope to organise some outside singing activities, once we are clearer as to the numbers allowed. (Watch this space). You will be aware by now that, sadly, the Bayside Carols in the Park has been cancelled for 2020, but we do hope to be able to get together to sing some form of Carols prior to Christmas, somewhere, somehow!!!
In the meantime, at our recent Committee meeting, after considering feedback from some of you, we thought we would try a Zoom gatheriing:
TEA, WINE, SONG AND CHAT - SUNDAY, 11TH OCTOBER - 3.00 P.M.
The idea is that interested members would join together for an 'Open Mic' style zoom get-together, where members who wish to perform individually (or if as a group, it would need to be using just one computer, tablet or phone). In between the performances, we can have our cup of tea or glass of wine and chat! Dianne and Russel are happy to be the organisers and help with technical queries, and Dianne would be the host. To get this on its way, we invite you to:
- Consider if you would like to perform, as a single act - (it is technically too difficult to have more than one singer/performer at a time from separate equipment), or as a group from one piece of equipment,.
- Contact Dianne and Dianne and Russel will assist in any technical issues or if you require backing tracks, etc.
- You will all be forwarded the Zoom link once it is organised.
DIANA
Some of our members zoomed into Diana's GSA online Choir 'Tonic' on four Wednesday evenings recently. Thank you to Diana who put in a great deal of thought and effort into this. I am sure everyone who attended enjoyed and benefitted from your 'tonic'.
Diana has kindly forwarded some of her video clips. She is happy to share these with you as lockdown restrictions begin; she feels the songs will reflect our spirits. Thank you!
Sunny Daze (as seen on RAGE) https://youtu.be/nrcJGpzJtTo
In Love with Love (recorded at the Bentleigh Ice Cream shop near Ben's Books) https://youtu.be/o-36CH8CcJk
BATUCADA BONDE (the Tram Song) filmed in Ballarat https://youtu.be/3Xmj1wEcFF0
GENEROSITY FROM VIVA MELBOURNE!
It has taken quite some time for Viva Melbourne participants to wind up the trip affairs, i.e. refunds from cancellations, etc., but from the group point of view, we are now finalising refunds from the V.M. bank account. A small amount remained, which was to be shared between the travellers and many kindly decided to donate their share to Vocally Wild. So, today, we are happy to announce that $410 has been transferred from the Viva Melbourne account into the Vocally Wild coffers. Thank you to all who donated after this long, untravelled road!!!!
SONGS
As we 'dare to dream' about our future singing together as a large group, (of course this could be a long way off yet), we are starting to consider the 'joyful' songs we might like to open with, after such a long time apart.
Maggie has delved into her enormous music storage and put together 40 great songs which she feels we really enjoyed and sang well; ones we are able to reproduce.. I have, on file, Toni's amazing page which she produced for Robert's farewell book, covering every song Toni learnt during her time with Robert as M.D. - 102 of them!! It's great, nostalgic reading!
If there are any songs covered during your time in Vocally Wild which you would like to nominate as good 'starting back, happy, sing along songs', please let any Committee member know so we can put together a 'favourites' list for when our Tuesday evenings return and we can once again sing with gusto!
GENERAL CHIT CHAT
- Elana from SandyBeach Community Centre forwarded some information recently. They have a number of different online courses available. If you're interested in finding out what is happening, perhaps you could look up their website - https://sandybeach.org.au
- From Church Bulletins. Have you seen this? "Thank God for the Church Ladies with Typewriters"? The following are just a few sentences which actually appeared, or were announced during Church services. I can forward the whole list if you like - it's very funny!
- Next Thursday there will be try-outs for the choir. they need all the help they can get.
- At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be "What is Hell?" Come early and listen to our choir practice.
- The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon.
- The eighth graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basemenet on Friday at 7.00 p.m. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy.
- The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new campaign slogan last Sunday. "I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours".
- Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help.
Facebook .....
Take care, look after yourselves and don't forget to let us know if you'd like to be a participant in our -
Open Mic section of "Tea, Wine, Song and Chat".
Virtual hugs only allowed at this stage !!!!!
Kind regards,
Pat (0437 697 009)
NEWS EXTRA - AUGUST, 2020
Sun, 16 Aug 2020NEWSLETTER - AUGUST, 2020
Sat, 8 Aug 2020| Russel Barnes (President) 0409 090 448 Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) 0437 697 009 Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary) |
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) 0458 669 883 Dianne Birch (Music Adviser) Edwina McLachlan Graham Mitchell |
Good Morning Vocally Wilders,
On this chilly morning, hope you are all doing ok, keeping well and busy. Difficult times, but let’s hope we can all think positively - that's the best we can do!
You will have probably received your A.G.M. notice, sent via email, a few minutes ago. Dianne will be our host for this Zoom meeting and here are the details again -
Topic: Vocally Wild AGM. Date: Sep 2, 2020 Time: 07:30 p.m. To join the Zoom Meeting click the link or go to https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87976218616 Meeting ID: 879 7621 8616.
Please let me know if you didn't receive the AGM Notice and I will forward it again. Thank you Dianne for offering to host this meeting - let's hope as many of you as possible will be able to attend. Any nominations for a position on the Committee to be forwarded please to Russel (email above) with details of nominee, yourself as nominator and the name of a seconder by Wednesday, 26th August. Thank you.
KATRINA
Katrina sent the email below to Russel and Diana and we are now forwarding it to you, should you be interested in taking part.
I am hoping this email finds you both well during this tricky time in Melbourne. I have been making a couple of resources to aid my choir members to sing at home.
Essentially I aim to teach an entire SATB arrangement of a song in a 30 minute video which includes a warm-up, a tutorial for the parts and a multi-tracked video of the song conducted and sung by me and special guests (so far, my husband Tom and Andrew Price from the Kingston Sea Shanties). The music is also sent as a PDF with the video link.
Cheryl has suggested that this might be a way to teach choral arrangements for the Christmas Concert and I am certainly open to the idea if we are to be involved.
For now I thought I would send you both through the YouTube links to the SATB versions of the two songs I have taught and if you thought members of Vocally Wild might be interested in the videos please feel free to direct them to the courses page on my website: https://katrinawaters-soprano.com/courses/
The videos are not perfect, especially when the Bass in Down to the River (my husband Tom) persisted in singing the wrong words, as we all do from time to time. However, I hope the videos inspire community choristers to put on a pair of headphones and sing like no one is listening!
Best wishes, Katrina katrinawaterssoprano@gmail.com
Down in the River to Pray https://youtu.be/DK7KcwDiUFw
Black is the Colour of My True Love’s Hair https://youtu.be/IEgzrxOg5LQ
WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN DOING, OR WHAT ARE YOU PLANNING?
Sylvia (2nd Sops) had a great idea - she thought it might be interesting and fun if we shared our ;'lock-down' activities! There must be a myriad of ideas and activities out there! What's the worst thing you've done during the lock down? Sylvia has been exploring her painting - doing tutorials, trying different skills using loads of colours. (I know there are several other 'artists' in our midst - send me some photos if you want to share your creations). Sylvia has also been clearing cupboards in the garage - delving into materials from 20 years ago, half finished paintings and projects, organising Christmas decorations, lovingly sorting tubs of photos and making them into photoboards, enjoying the great memories. Phew - am exhausted thinking of it all! The worst thing I have done so far is to half-heartedly clean the oven! The best is starting to learn to play the pian0 from scratch! Patrice, there is definitely no threat to your job!!!
Let me know - I am sure people would love to hear what you're doing.or what you promise yourself you'll do!
MORE ITEMS OF INTEREST FROM MEMBERS
Caroline Dunn: Caroline suggrests contacting The Boite - email boite@boite.com.au and looking into their Singing Workshops: which will take place from: 12:30pm, Sunday September 13th. $20 for a single workshop, $50 for a 3-workshop pass. Tickets through trybooking.com/BKPUI
ROSE OLSON has been keeping me entertained with a variety of attachments and emails of amazing music and funnies in the last few weeks. Here is one of the delightful ones from good old Winnie:
i am sure CHRISTINE MONTGOMERY (Alto) won't mind me mentioning that she will be having a 'special' birthday on the 11th August - Happy Birthday from all of us Christine - thinking of you. Wish we could be singing to you in our usual raucus way!
Thank you to SUE BEAZLEY for sending her 'keeping in touch' email to the Sopranos! Very interesting and welcome Sue.
Cheerio for now - don't forget the AGM,, plus let me have anything you would like to share with members to keep the communication going!!
Kindest,
Pat. 0437697009.
NEWSLETTER - JULY, 2020
Sat, 11 Jul 2020Russel Barnes (President) Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) Cherry Tunnock (Membership Secretary) |
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) Dianne Birch (Music Adviser) Edwina McLachlan Graham Mitchell |
Hello Vocally Wilders,
Hope you are all coping with what has been thrown at us and, where possible remaining cheerful and positive!! I know several of you have had some concerns, so thoughts are with you. The Committee won't be meeting this month, little need at present, but we plan to Zoom together in August and hopefully there will be some brighter news by then. In the meantime, here is a message and 'pep up' from Diana, a communication from Toni Evans and Carolyn McIntyre, plus some music videos from Ken Walker and Maggie Cripps, (thank you Russel for the technical assistance!!) plus an indulgence from me!
FROM DIANA
Here's a clip I created while lucky enough to have a break in lovely serene South Gippsland last month.
Aum Shanti - (Peace Chant) sung on a mountain in Foster North overlooking farmland and Wilson's Prom in the distance - this clip is all about the view!!
Left of screen is melody/low part, right bottom is middle voice, right top is high - try out all the parts - and see which one your voice feels sweetest in. Try jumping up or down an octave - play around with singing it when you want some peaceful respite! <3 Diana
https://mixcord.co/acapella/p/Zr0j2tq6YbPK9v4ThP2k8g/
I'd love to see a photo of Judy for her 90th celebrations too if we have one to share - congrats Judy!!!
Thank you so much Diana.
MESSAGES FROM OUR CHOIR FRIENDS
Tony: I hope that you are all well and safe, and hunkered down in your lovely warm homes. I hope I'm not imposing, but I would love to send a "hello" from me to all our Choir members. I miss them all, as you would too. Choir was/is such an important part of our lives and I don't know when I'll see all those lovely smiling faces again. Sigh !!
Carolyn: I miss you all, the singing and the camaraderie.
Maggie: Maggie says you'll enjoy this 'Opera' and to watch to the end! Opera with an unusual ending
Ken: For great music, Ken suggests you go to Google and enter ‘Wiener Cello Ensemble spiel Bolero’. He sends a message with it - Always loved the repetitive nature of Bolero....and the comedy routines around the piece. .. a compelling melody to listen to!
Another from Ken - see attachment "The Good, The Bad, The Ugly' . The Good, Bad and Ugly
Thanks Toni, Carolyn, Ken and Maggie. If any one of you would like to send a general message to Choir, or if you have any items of interest, for example what you've been up to in 'lockdown', I'm sure many would LOVE to hear from you, so please let me know. (patlow5@bigpond.com)
MARSKE FISHERMEN'S CHOIR
For any of you interested in seeing a wonderful men's choir, attached is a short clip of the Marske Fishermen's Choir (Marske by the Sea, North Yorkshire, near the North York Moors)! They have been singing all over the UK, for charity, since the late 60's. This clip is of a small group of them performing a sea shanty amongst the ancient ruins of Whitby Abbey, on a very misty, moisty atmospheric morning! The video is from my phone and I am sorry that I didn't get the full song, but you can look them up via Mr. Google! In this clip they're singing about the "black gold (oil) in the dark sea waters Johnny".
Marske Fishermens choir
Leunig as usual hit the nail on its head a couple of days ago - which one will you wear - now they are compulsory!?
Take care, more soon. Pat.
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - MAY, 2020
Mon, 18 May 2020IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM RUSSEL, PRESIDENT
You may be wondering when we can resume choir activities, now that the COVID 19 pandemic numbers are on the wane in Australia. Your Committee met this week to look at this question and to weigh up the evidence regarding the safety of performing in a choir.
I am sorry to say the prospects of getting back together in 2020 are very bleak. The main reason is the high infection rate seen overseas in large groups which meet for extended periods, as we do when we rehearse on a Tuesday night. We are also not expecting the Carols in the Park to go ahead, although Bayside Council has not announced a decision at this stage.
We may be able to resume meeting if either a vaccine is widely adopted or there is no virus anywhere in Australia for a period of at least a month.
The Committee will meet every two months to review the situation and you will be notified if there is any change. In the meantime, we wanted you to know that Vocally Wild will be suspended for the rest of the year, unless there is an unexpected end to the COVID 19 pandemic.
Thank you to Russel and the Committee - this was a very sad and energy draining meeting and all of us are extremely sorry that this decision had to be made.. We looked at the plentiful material available to choirs, including experiences of ones from overseas and accepted the solid evidence that choral singing was the most dangerous of group activities. The Committee feels a huge responsibility towards our 100 members, bearing in mind: our median age group, the extra social distancing space needed and the technical reasons for it, the fact that choirs have a 70% greater likelihood of spreading infection than other groups, that one person in a room with people singing and expelling the droplets and aerosoles we read about, could create a highly infectious situation, and that air conditioning would certainly aggravate the problem.
As Russel mentions, things may change and we will be alert to any positive information available. In the meantime, take care everyone! Here are a few general items of news - hopefully there will be a newsletter after our bi-monthly Committee meetings and of course other information will be emailed if necessary.
SPECIAL BIRTHDAY
It's a shame we couldn't all celebrate Diana's 50th with her - a special milestone - but thank you to all of you from Vocally Wild and Viva Melbourne who sent emails which were 'glued' into two huge cards. Diana was especially delighted with the surprise visit by the ten, as she describes it, "brave souls" who gathered around her gate with balloons, cards, presents and sang Happy Birthday - still quite illegally at this stage, but don't tell anyone!! Vocally Wild (thanks to Dianne who organised it) sent her a box of "beautifully organically grown Holistic essential oil, massage oil and chakra/energy balancing tea" from Wagga Wagga and Viva Melbourne gave her a Voucher which she and Doug spent on some Dr. Dan Murphy 'treatments' of sparkling and red wines'. Diana sends her sincere thanks to everyone concerned and said that these gestures lifted her spirits!
We have another very special birthday coming up, on the 9th June, when Judy (Alto) will celebrate her 90th birthday. All the very best to you from us all Judy.
PEP-UPS FROM DIANA
Thank you to Diana for her fortnightly Pep Up emails and attachments. Hopefully you have enjoyed these during Term 2. These won't continue for the rest of the year, but Diana hopes that they have assisted some of you to continue to sing a little, listen and reminisce good times in the past. We have considered Zoom group singing meetings, but decided against it - they present quite a few problems, for example the organisation, technicalities, etc. which for a large group would be quite difficult for us.
VIRTUAL SINGING MESSAGE AND SONG GIFT - Message from Dianne.
Hi Everyone
I really miss seeing you all and especially my aged care residents, where I have been entertaining for the past 8 years. With these fulfilling connections currently unavailable, I am offering a personalised Virtual Singing Message & Song gift. The sender lets me know the message they would like their friend/family member to receive and chooses a song from my repertoire of over 100 songs. I then record that message and song and forward it to you by email for you to then onforward to the recipient. There is a fee of course, but feedback is that it is very reasonable. In these times, and especially as a gift for people you can’t readily see (especially overseas), sending a personalised message and chosen song for your loved one is a stand out gift that they will remember. Whether it be in celebration of congratulations, Mother’s/Father’s day, friendship, birthday, wedding, anniversary or departure, there are many occasions for which to show how much you care. Russel gave me this idea and was my first customer. He happily shares his birthday message to his sister Maureen here. Please feel welcome to email me at mazbirch@bigpond.com to discuss and please do share this with your friends and family.
Very best wishes, Dianne Birch - Mezzo Soprano “Music is the Language of Memory”.
GENERAL NEWS
Many of you have sent 'funnies', photos and pictures, but It's difficult to put them all in here. Thank you anyway!
Finally, I can't resist Leunig's Social Distancing Rules!!!: Take care, and 'We'll Meet Again"!!!!
Kind regards,
Pat
You may be wondering when we can resume choir activities, now that the COVID 19 pandemic numbers are on the wane in Australia. Your Committee met this week to look at this question and to weigh up the evidence regarding the safety of performing in a choir.
I am sorry to say the prospects of getting back together in 2020 are very bleak. The main reason is the high infection rate seen overseas in large groups which meet for extended periods, as we do when we rehearse on a Tuesday night. We are also not expecting the Carols in the Park to go ahead, although Bayside Council has not announced a decision at this stage.
We may be able to resume meeting if either a vaccine is widely adopted or there is no virus anywhere in Australia for a period of at least a month.
The Committee will meet every two months to review the situation and you will be notified if there is any change. In the meantime, we wanted you to know that Vocally Wild will be suspended for the rest of the year, unless there is an unexpected end to the COVID 19 pandemic.
Best wishes to you all from President Russel and the Vocally Wild Committee
As Russel mentions, things may change and we will be alert to any positive information available. In the meantime, take care everyone! Here are a few general items of news - hopefully there will be a newsletter after our bi-monthly Committee meetings and of course other information will be emailed if necessary.
SPECIAL BIRTHDAY
It's a shame we couldn't all celebrate Diana's 50th with her - a special milestone - but thank you to all of you from Vocally Wild and Viva Melbourne who sent emails which were 'glued' into two huge cards. Diana was especially delighted with the surprise visit by the ten, as she describes it, "brave souls" who gathered around her gate with balloons, cards, presents and sang Happy Birthday - still quite illegally at this stage, but don't tell anyone!! Vocally Wild (thanks to Dianne who organised it) sent her a box of "beautifully organically grown Holistic essential oil, massage oil and chakra/energy balancing tea" from Wagga Wagga and Viva Melbourne gave her a Voucher which she and Doug spent on some Dr. Dan Murphy 'treatments' of sparkling and red wines'. Diana sends her sincere thanks to everyone concerned and said that these gestures lifted her spirits!
We have another very special birthday coming up, on the 9th June, when Judy (Alto) will celebrate her 90th birthday. All the very best to you from us all Judy.
PEP-UPS FROM DIANA
Thank you to Diana for her fortnightly Pep Up emails and attachments. Hopefully you have enjoyed these during Term 2. These won't continue for the rest of the year, but Diana hopes that they have assisted some of you to continue to sing a little, listen and reminisce good times in the past. We have considered Zoom group singing meetings, but decided against it - they present quite a few problems, for example the organisation, technicalities, etc. which for a large group would be quite difficult for us.
VIRTUAL SINGING MESSAGE AND SONG GIFT - Message from Dianne.
Hi Everyone
I really miss seeing you all and especially my aged care residents, where I have been entertaining for the past 8 years. With these fulfilling connections currently unavailable, I am offering a personalised Virtual Singing Message & Song gift. The sender lets me know the message they would like their friend/family member to receive and chooses a song from my repertoire of over 100 songs. I then record that message and song and forward it to you by email for you to then onforward to the recipient. There is a fee of course, but feedback is that it is very reasonable. In these times, and especially as a gift for people you can’t readily see (especially overseas), sending a personalised message and chosen song for your loved one is a stand out gift that they will remember. Whether it be in celebration of congratulations, Mother’s/Father’s day, friendship, birthday, wedding, anniversary or departure, there are many occasions for which to show how much you care. Russel gave me this idea and was my first customer. He happily shares his birthday message to his sister Maureen here. Please feel welcome to email me at mazbirch@bigpond.com to discuss and please do share this with your friends and family.
Very best wishes, Dianne Birch - Mezzo Soprano “Music is the Language of Memory”.
GENERAL NEWS
- Did anyone see Soprano, Jo Mansutti, singing 'Waltzing Matilda' with the MSO in a wonderful Zoom?
- Thanks to Cherry for her Law Week information. It's still on, so if you're interested, have a look - there are so many activities. On until 24th May.
- Here's a painting by Jan Gooding of her dog Harvey!! Isn't he gorgeous? And next to him is Jan's painting of Minnie!!!
- I can't fit in all the photos, but here is one of Sylvia's 'Sunflowers' - very cheerful and bright.
!
Many of you have sent 'funnies', photos and pictures, but It's difficult to put them all in here. Thank you anyway!
Finally, I can't resist Leunig's Social Distancing Rules!!!: Take care, and 'We'll Meet Again"!!!!
Kind regards,
Pat
| Diana Clark de-Vries (Musical Director) Patrice Marshall (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) Cherry Tunnock (MembershipSecretary) |
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) Dianne Birch (Music Adviser) Edwina McLachlan Graham Mitchell |
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - APRIL, 2020
Thu, 16 Apr 2020VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETER - MARCH, 2020
Thu, 12 Mar 2020VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - FEBRUARY, 2020
Sun, 26 Jan 2020VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - DECEMBER, 2019
Thu, 12 Dec 2019| DIARY | |
| FRIDAY, 13TH DEC: SATURDAY, 14TH DEC: SATURDAY, 21ST DEC: SUNDAY, 22ND DEC: TUESDAY, 4TH FEB: |
CAROLS AT MAYFLOWER 2.30 P.M. CAROLS WITH MOSAIC, MYER S’LAND 1 PM & 2 PM CAROLS, HAMPTON CRICKET CLUB 7.30 PM CAROLS WITH MOSAIC, MYER S’LAND 1 PM & 2 PM TERM 1, 2020 COMMENCES |
What a wonderful Bayside Carols in the Park last Tuesday. I hope you are still feeling the joyful afterglow!! Thank you to Robert, Diana, Katrina, Andrew and his wonderful Band for the huge effort in preparing us all, and how lucky were we to have Dave with his sound equipment skills at the Town Hall rehearsals? It was such a happy night and the enormous crowd seemed to enjoy it all! Thank you Diana for your smiles and enthusiasm up there on the podium – you are a joy to follow. We are well and truly programmed with “All I Want for Christmas is You’ (Robert! – I do those actions in my sleep!) and how proud we were of William and Jenny who led us so beautifully with ‘War is Over’ – fabulous. The soloists were wonderful and wasn’t the snow a great hit; it seems everyone enjoyed the singing Santa? We are fortunate indeed to be part of this Bayside extravaganza. And we’re not finished yet either – there are still more Carols to come!
From Diana: It was truly a wonderful success on Tuesday night - the Choir sounded robust and warm. A beautiful blend could be heard from conductors’ podium - as well as out front (I went into audience near the sound desk for March of the Kings). Congratulations and thanks to all for the countless hours of practice, rehearsals, memorising, morning teas, standing-sitting-standing, etc. I really think it was a top shelf result from our combined choirs (and conductors :) along with Andrew Mathers' relaxed style and Rob's master-minding from Brisbane to Bayside. What fun!
Note: Helen Ambler reminds us that Southern FM Radio broadcast the Carols and a podcast is available on https://www.southernfm.com.au/show/special-events/bayside-carols-in-the-park-2019-podcast/
Talking of Carols, did you know that our second soprano, Peg Gill, has a great, great, great grandfather, on her Scottish side, John T McFarland, who wrote the third verse to ‘Away in a Manger’?!!! Apparently Queen Victoria loved this song so much (written by William James Kirkpatrick) and, as it only had two verses, decreed that a third verse be written! How amazing – it’s probably one of the world’s most well-known songs/carols, together with Silent Night of course (see the story below)!
CAROLS AT HAMPTON CRICKET CLUB – Saturday, 21st December, 7.30 p.m.
From Diana: I warmly encourage & invite all available Vocally Wild singers to come along and sing out the year at our Hampton Cricket Club event - (it's fine if you haven't put your name on the list, you're welcome). Bring your folders - we'll sing from our music. Vocal warm up at 6:45 p.m. for 2 sets – Set 1 at 7:30 & Set 2 at 8:30 (with drinks in interval and afterwards). Wear your own Christmassy colours - anything goes!
Set 1
Joy to the World - 4 verses. While Shepherds Watched - 6 v. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing = 2 v. Away in a Manger - 3 v. The First Nowell = 3 v. Getting in the Mood for Christmas. Happy Christmas/War is Over. Angels We Have Heard on High - 3 v. Silent Night - 3 v.
Set 2
Rudolph. Santa Claus is Coming to Town. Jingle Bells - 2 v. March of the Kings. We Three Kings - 5 v. This Little Light of Mine. Hallelujah Chorus. All You Need is Love. O Come All Ye Faithful - 4 v. Ding Dong Merrily - 3 v. We Wish You a Merry Christmas - 5 v.
Here are a couple of reports on our activities over the last busy month:FAMILY LIFE CAROLS
Dianne Birch kindly offered to lead us in the Carols at Family Life on 27th November. We were very fortunate and she did a great job, bringing her backing tracks, speaker, etc., preparing us for it so well. Family Life were thrilled and it was a happy, friendly occasion. Lesley Winning introduced us, relating some interesting ‘Carols’ information (see below) -that was when we learnt about Peg’s forebear. The audience joined in with the singing. And Family Life treated us to a delicious morning tea afterwards. Wonderful. Thank you to our happy band of singers for sparing the time to come at this busy period – it was a much appreciated event indeed.
OPEN MIC AND END OF TERM (by Dianne Birch)
Last night's Open Mic session went off really well. The proceedings started with a Melodrama written by Russel recognising Diana as our choir leader extraordinaire and sharing our desire to learn and create magical, melodic, musical memories under her expert guidance. Diana was dressed in a red robe (thanks Pat), and attired in Queenly slippers (thanks Lyn), tiara and staff and seated upon a throne (thanks Edwina). All a totally hammed up event, as melodrama’s are, but a fun way to show that we really appreciate everything that Diana has done for us in improving our beautiful sound and what we anticipate in the future. Thank you Diana ????.
I thanked everyone for their support and participation in the Open Mic sessions, whether as a supportive audience member or a “what the heck – I’m in” performer. The next Open Mic will be on 24th March. As Open Mic takes planning from the start of term, please let me know a.s.a.p. if you would like a spot to have some fun. I’m very happy to arrange and guide rehearsals before choir from 7pm and its best to start early on in the term. I will need notice for that so we can book the Sims room. Patrice was sensational in her beautifully played piece titled ‘Rustle of Spring’ by Christian Sinding. Richard educated and entertained us with some history and song of ‘Barretts Privateers’. William Mulholland, stripped down to his Freddie Mercury “replica” singlet and belted out Queen’s ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’. His up-close attention to some of the audience during the song got a lot of laughs. Lesley Coleman and her acting partner, Fiona, presented an excerpt from a comedic play called ‘The Roommate’ by Jen Silverman. It is a 90 minute two person play that they will be performing. Stay tuned for details. The play tells the story of a 50 year old woman, who, whilst having given up on life, takes in a roommate of questionable repute. She then becomes a very easily influenced student of the roommate and gets herself into a new business of a herbal and cookie variety. Lesley played the homeowner and did it with a real zest and passion for her new business and Fiona played the roommate who had to curtail her landlord’s penchant for business expansion via underage clientele. Tsk, tsk!
I am loving the diversity of talent that we are seeing. Bring it on and thank you for entertaining us so very well. Dianne.
Thank you indeed, Dianne! Note: Rod Winning’s video of the Open Mic is available on the secure section of the Vocally Wild website. Thank you Rod for coming along and doing this, it was much appreciated.
AND MORE THINGS ‘CAROLS’
As you will see in our Diary, above, there's still some more carolling to come! A happy band will be at ‘Mayflower’ on Friday, 13th December (meet at 2.15 p.m. at the main Centre Road entrance. Don’t worry if you’re not on the list, just arrive! Patty has plenty of folders with all the words, so you don’t need to bring anything). A small group of Vocally Wilders will join Mosaic in sessions at Myer Southland this Saturday and the following Sunday, during which some of us will be tackling the interesting challenges of ‘barbershop’. (There may be some ‘barbershop’ training sessions in 2020, so watch this space!!)
Also, a sizeable group of Vocally Wilders will sing Carols at the Hampton Cricket Club on Saturday, the 21st, (see below), so thank you everyone for sparing your precious time. Also thank you indeed to Diana and Patrice for making themselves available for the Cricket Club ‘gig’ and to Russel, Dave, Richard and all the merry men who will set up the choir risers and sound equipment. It’s a huge job.
While you’re in ‘Carols’ mode, here’s a little more interesting information, thanks to Dianne.
‘We Three Kings’
In 1857, John Henry Hopkins Junior assembled an elaborate Christmas pageant for which he wrote both words and music for the General Theological Seminary in New York City. The Three Kings, Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar, brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Gold is traditionally the metal of royalty. Frankincense is an aromatic bark, the smoke was thought to reach the gates of heaven, and Myrrh is an ointment used in the preparation of bodies for burial. These gifts thus signified Jesus’ kinship, his oneness with God and his eventual death on the cross.
‘Silent Night’
On the afternoon of Christmas Eve, in 1818, in a tiny village high in the Austrian Alps, Joseph Mohr, the local Catholic Priest, wrote some appropriate stanzas for the season. The church pipe organ had given out and could not be repaired in time for that evening, so the Church Organist, Franz Gruber, wrote a simple tune, setting the words for a Tenor, a Bass and two guitars. That very evening, at the midnight service, ‘Silent Night’ was heard for the first time. The song soon made its way beyond the town of Oberdorf, but anonymously, without mention of composer or poet. Until the 1850’s, neither Gruber nor Mohr, living in their remote village, knew that their song was rapidly becoming the most beloved piece of Christmas music ever written, nor did the world know of Gruber and Mohr.
HOBART ‘FESTIVAL OF VOICES’ 2020
General information was sent in our email on 15th November – if you didn’t receive this, let me know and I can forward a copy. Organisation in earnest begins in January when invoices will be sent to those on our list with a request for the cost for the Festival ($140, plus our Music Director’s costs, yet to be confirmed). This to be paid in early February. Our minimum commitment, as a choir, will be from Saturday, 4th July to Wednesday, 8th July, but of course many of you may wish to spend longer as the Festival runs from Wednesday, 1st to Sunday, 12th July.
CROATIA 2020
Plans are going along well for the Festival of Choirs and Orchestras in early April. Thank you to Lidia and the small committee for all the planning and hard work and to Diana and Doug for their huge input so far. Rehearsals will resume as planned early in the new year.
ADMINISTRATION
Cherry will be sending invoices out for 2020 in mid-January. If you have not received yours by the 30th January, please contact Cherry on her email address below. Thank you.
THE SECRET VEIL
The following information about a Choral Workshop was received by Cherry from Michelle Tseng, Marketing & Development Co-ordinator, Monash Academy of Performing Arts. Some of Vocally Wild will be away in Croatia during this period, but many of you could well be interested.
We are writing to invite Vocally Wild to join us for an exciting opportunity to work with Grammy award winner Eric Whitacre. Eric Whitacre is one of the most popular musicians of his generation. His music has been performed throughout the world by millions of amateur and professional musicians alike, while his ground-breaking Virtual Choirs have united singers from over 120 different countries.
In April 2020, MLIVE is presenting Eric's Australian exclusive The Sacred Veil at the Alexander Theatre at Monash University (Clayton campus). On top of his concert, Eric will also lead a choral workshop to provide an opportunity for singers to rehearse and work with him on some of his most-loved works. Repertoire will include A Boy and a Girl, The Seal Lullaby (with piano) and Child of Wonder (from The Sacred Veil). Music will be provided upon arrival on the day. We believe the members of Vocally Wild will enjoy the workshop and have a wonderful time with Eric. Tickets to the workshop are now on sale. If you wish to make a booking, please see below for the event details.
Don't forget, we have a special offer of $35 for a group of 10 - that's $5 off for each person from the standard price.
Event: Eric Whitacre Choral Workshop
Date: Tuesday 7 April 2020
Time: 7.00pm
Venue: Alexander Theatre
Duration: 1 hour workshop + 30 minute Q&A session
To book tickets/for further details: http://bit.ly/ChoralWorkshop
WHAT’S ALSO HAPPENING?
- Cadence Concert – ‘I Heard the Bells’ - Sunday, 15th December, 5.30 to 6.30 p.m. St. Agnes Church, 35 Arkaringa Crescent, Black Rock.
- ‘Songs for Nobodies’ – Bernadette Robinson will be presenting her one woman play with songs (written by Joanna Murray-Smith) about great mid-20th century performers and ordinary women at the Arts Centre Melbourne, Fairfax Studio from 18th December til 5th January. I saw this a few years ago and it is fabulous – highly recommended! Further details contact artcentremelbourne.com.au
This is our final communication for the year, so we are signing off now. However, Christmas isn't Christmas without a joke and I can't let Mark Larkan's on Tuesday night be forgotten! You may cringe, but the grandies will enjoy it - "Why do Elves go to school? To learn the Elfabet! Boom boom.
May I say a huge thank you to Diana and Patrice for a busy and successful year and wish you all a
Wonderful Christmas and a Happy, Safe and Musical 2020.
We’re looking forward to seeing you all again in February, welcoming back our recent new members and some familiar faces from previous years! 2020 promises to be an exciting and stimulating year!
Kind regards,
Pat Lowry
| Diana Clark de-Vries (Musical Director) Patrice Marshall (Accompanist) Russel Barnes (President) 0409 090 448 Julie Sergienko (Treasurer) Pat Lowry (Secretary) 0437697009 Cherry Tunnock (MembershipSecretary) |
Maggie Cripps (Music Production & Management) 0458 669 883 Dianne Birch (Music Adviser) Edwina McLachlan Graham Mitchell Jenny Ellison |
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - NOVEMBER, 2019
Sat, 2 Nov 2019.Hello everyone,
There is much happening as we approach the end of Term and Christmas so plenty to report; please bear with me if this newsletter appears a little long! Apart from our usual news, there have been some other interesting developments, so look out for the item on Russel’s company’s success, read the latest from Nepal from Malcolm, see what Lesley Winning is involved with, as well as her connection with Family Life, and check out the busy music scene, one item involving another Vocally Wilder, Jenny Ellison, plus many more items of interest!
| DIARY | |
| SATURDAY, 23RD NOVEMBER | BAYSIDE CAROLS REHEARSAl, 10.20. |
| WEDNESDAY, 27TH NOVEMBER | CAROLS AT FAMILY LIFE 10.30 A.M. |
| SATURDAY, 30TH NOVEMBER | BAYSIDE CAROLS REHEARSAL |
| TUESDAY, 3RD DECEMBER | TERM 4 CONCLUDES. 'OPEN MIC' |
| SATURDAY, 7TH DECEMBER | BAYSIDE CAROLS REHEARSAL |
| SUNDAY, 8TH DECEMBER | FINAL CAROLS REHEARSAL, 7.30 |
| TUESDAY, 10TH DECEMBER | BAYSIDE CAROLS IN THE PARK |
| FRIDAY, 13TH DECEMBER | CAROLS AT MAYFLOWER 2.30 P.M. |
| SATURDAY, 14TH DECEMBER & SUNDAY, 22ND DECEMBER |
CAROLS WITH MOSAIC AT MYER SOUTHLAND (A SMALL GROUP OF V.W. BARBERSHOP SINGERS) |
| SATURDAY, 21ST DECEMBER | CAROLS AT HAMPTON CRICKET CLUB |
UPCOMING PERFORMANCES AND EVENTS
STOP PRESS:
MAGGIE HAS SOME MORE BAYSIDE CHRISTMAS CAROLS MUSIC FOR DISTRIBUTION, SO SHE WILL HAND THEM OUT AS YOU ARRIVE IN THE MORNING!
MAGGIE HAS SOME MORE BAYSIDE CHRISTMAS CAROLS MUSIC FOR DISTRIBUTION, SO SHE WILL HAND THEM OUT AS YOU ARRIVE IN THE MORNING!
-
Saturday, 30th November – 10.30am – 1.00 p.m.
-
Saturday, 7th December – 10.30am – 1.00 p.m.
-
Sunday, 8th December – 7.00pm – 10.00 p.m. (Sausage sizzle will commence at 5.30 p.m.)
- Bayside Carols - Tuesday, 10th December - 7.30 p.m. – 9.30 p.m. (call time is 6.30 p.m.
FAMILY LIFE CAROLS - Wednesday, 27th November at the Cheltenham Op Shop, Nepean Highway. Information has been sent to those on the list, but please let me know if you would like to come along.
CAROLS AT MAYFLOWER – Friday, 13th December, 2.30 p.m. If you haven’t already, please add your name to the list at Tuesday night rehearsals if you would like to join us. You will be contacted shortly with details. This will be a fun, relaxed and very satisfying event.
CAROLS AT MAYFLOWER – Friday, 13th December, 2.30 p.m. If you haven’t already, please add your name to the list at Tuesday night rehearsals if you would like to join us. You will be contacted shortly with details. This will be a fun, relaxed and very satisfying event.
CAROLS AT HAMPTON CRICKET CLUB – Saturday, 21st December. Performance commences at 7.30 p.m. Choir to arrive at 6.30 p.m. Edwina will forward further information shortly.
OPEN MIC SESSIONS AT REHEARSALS Everyone is welcome and invited to participate in the Open Mic session that runs for the last half hour of each term. There is one 3 minute spot left for this term, so hop in quickly if you would like it. Please have a chat to Dianne (2nd Soprano) to express interest and let her know what song/which term you would like to perform or if you want suggestions or guidance. Dianne is happy to arrange rehearsals for items either before choir or at another time if you feel it would be useful. It is necessary to book your spot early in the term so we can have a fun, flowing night of entertainment. Dianne’s contact details are at the top of the newsletter.
WWII VETS' LUNCH, BEAUMARIS RSL – FRI. 8TH NOV. Sue Beazley’s Report
Thank you to those who gave their time to share this Remembrance Day celebration with the Beaumaris RSL World War II veterans. What good voice we were in under the leadership of our Choir Director for the day Patrice, who made sure we never missed a beat as the running order went out the door we just kept adding songs as necessary.
Lots of good feedback from our audience of around 90 including local State MP for Sandringham, Brad Rowswell, who we managed to coerce into singing Waltzing Matilda with us. It was interesting to see people singing along to our unofficial anthem, they all knew the words. Beaumaris RSL President, Clarke Martin passed on his thanks to Vocally Wild for their support over the years adding that everyone always enjoyed having the choir perform at their events. Cr Martin was last week elected the new Mayor of Bayside. Also pleased to report that our Anzac Day Parade Convenor, John Douglas was awarded Life Membership of the RSL in recognition of his 20 years of organising the Beaumaris RSL Anzac Day Parade and Service.
Sue also wishes to say ‘thank you’ to the Choir and Committee for the Arts Centre voucher given to her earlier this year marking her 20 years with the choir. She said that on the 8th of February she will be front row of the Dress Circle to see Gladys Knight, her favourite female singer of all time…..”Midnight Train to Georgia” here she comes! Sue is very excited to be able to get such great tickets.
VOCALLY WILD END OF YEAR SOCIAL - SUNDAY, 10TH NOVEMBER
Approximately 75 people came along to the Social/Barefoot Bowling afternoon and evening. It was a great success - a cheerful, happy end of year occasion and a great opportunity for members to socialise in a friendly environment.
Thanks go to all who helped - the Committee of course, but there were many other willing
volunteers, in particular our four fabulous gourmet chefs, Claude, Clint, Richard and Robert.
Must say the hamburgers,
bangers, rissoles and chicken wings were beautifully cooked. Don’t the aprons
look great?!
Thank you also to Maggie for conducting the entertaining ‘Raffle’ draw and, for your interest, winners were: Raffle Winners of the day raffle - Richard, Jenny and Maggie
Winners of the main raffle - Caroline Dunn, Justin Cleaver, Joan Marshall, Robyn Stevens, Stratis Arranitakis, Andrea B, Helen Ambler, Liz Duell, Maryann Spottiswood, Kate Olsen, Tony Stone, Alison Bell, Lara Srour, Louise Jarvis, Kate Jarvis.
MESSAGE FROM EDWINA
Changes to message giving before break time.
In the past we have noticed there have been numerous people popping up to give messages to the choir prior to the break and often many have been committee member. You will have noticed that we have made some changes! We have been allocating the message giving task on behalf of the committee to Edwina.
If you want information read out, email me your info or talk to me on the night and preferably give me the written info as the committee will also do, and I will gladly read it out on your behalf. If you feel strongly that you would like to give the information yourself, let me know so I can try to co-ordinate the amount of people getting up. Hopefully, this will speed up the process of information giving so that we can move onto the social part of the evening, catching up with friends, which is really important to us all.
Returning to seats quickly following the break
Rather than Diana singing us back to our seats, Patrice has been playing loud, rousing music, which heralds break time over! Patrice starts playing around 12 mins into the break knowing that it will take people some minutes to return to their seats.
Getting in touch with the Committee
If you have questions/comments that you would like addressed by the committee, you are so welcome to email these to any one of us on the committee and we will discuss it at the next meeting. Edwina McLachlan edwinamclachlan@hotmail.com
PEOPLE’S CHAMPION AWARD!
WELL DONE RUSSEL, BRODIE AND COLLEAGUES
Russel’s telco company, Better Life, recently won the
ACCAN People's Champion Award, 2019.
ACCAN People's Champion Award, 2019.
The People's Champion Award recognises the telco that has demonstrated a strong social conscience
through the creation of a product or service that is designed for those on limited incomes. 'The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) is Australia’s peak communications consumer organisation that works to empower consumers to make good choices about products and service
Better Life’s other awards were:
Finalist in the Telstra Business Awards in Social Change Maker category
And Finder.com gave Better Life first place for "Best prepaid plan under $40"
These are amazing results for a local company that started 7 years ago as a small project to help people stay connected, and now they have been recognised as Australia's People's Champion for Mobile Plans. Russel reminds us that anyone can arrange a mobile phone plan with his company, it is not just for those on limited incomes, and may I say, the fees are extremely competitive. Contact Russel if you’re interested or www.betterlifemobile.com.au
CAKES, PUDDINGS, SHORTBREADS
MESSAGES FROM LESLEY WINNING & FAMILY LIFE
Lesley would like to thank the Vocally Wild members who supported her at Family Life’s Drop In Wednesday (for the Catch Up program) on the 23rd October. The play reading, “The Way of All Fish” by Elaine May, was a great success and everyone who attended enjoyed a good laugh. Many stayed for a cuppa and a shop at the Op Shop. One V.W. member, who shall remain nameless, (Edwina!), went home laden down with goodies. A very successful morning all round!
Lesley is looking forward to joining those of you who have offered to sing Carols at the Family Life Cheltenham Op Shop on Wednesday November 27. (Further details later).
Lesley writes: I am helping the Victorian Women’s Trust sell a book, which is about periods, called About Bloody Time, an important topic and the book is a great Christmas present for members’ daughters or grand-daughters. We all know how difficult a topic it is, and how we might feel shame around this natural function of our bodies. Wouldn’t it be great to have that stigma and taboo lifted? That’s what the book is about and is based on a survey and discussions with more than 3,500 girls and women about the negative emotions they feel about this part of life which is, after all, the key building block of human life. It offers a positive way to look at this issue, and is a tool for helping young girls and women to feel good about themselves. You can purchase the book at https://www.vwt.org.au/projects/about-bloody-time/ or call Lesley on 0411486837 for a wholesale price on multiple copies.
You might also be interested in a web series that Lesley produces. It’s an interview series called Tete-a-Tete. She interviews people making a living – or trying to – in the entertainment industry. There are about 25 interviews online already, and the interviewees range from an actor starring in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to the 50 year old Miss Burlesque Australia. There are interviews with actors, producers, directors, music and acting teachers, and a psychologist who was a professional child actor. If you are interested in the industry, or just like to hear people’s stories, you might enjoy this series, which is a cross between One Plus One and Julia Zamiro’s Home Delivery. You can find Tete-a-Tete at https://mysticaldog.com/TeteATete/.
MALCOLM IN NEPAL
Malcolm Peck’s support for his Nepal communities continues apace. He has given us the following link which takes you to a drone shot video taken last November of Sildu primary school, Nepal, his latest project. The school is getting a complete renovation inside and out that will be finished shortly. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwVqPqWArrI
If you are interested, Malcolm would be very happy to discuss these projects with you. Tel: 0438 887 689.
SINGING LESSONS
Katrina (Mosaic’s M.D.) is offering singing lessons in her private studio during January, 2020. There will be an opportunity for one-off lessons, or a discounted rate for blocks of four. If you are interested, please contact Katrina on her email address:
THE LOCAL AND CHORAL MUSIC SCENE!
- Jenny Ellison will be singing with the Jazz Trio “Jumbalumba’ on Friday, 20th December at Hobsons, Sandringham. You may wish to book a table for a meal and enjoy some Jazz, Blues and Latin from the 50’s to the 70’s. Bookings and further detail contact 95210370.
- Diana’s Chantsong Singing Circle continues on Sunday, 24th November, 2.00 p.m. at the Castlefield Community Centre, Hampton. Contact: trybooking.com
- The Australian Chamber Choir will present “Keys to Heaven’ directed by Douglas Lawrence at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Middle Park, 3.00 p.m. on Sunday, 24th November performing Gregorio Allegri Miserere, Christus Resurgens, Josquin des Prez Ave Maria, Tomás Luis de Victoria O magnum mysterium, Luca Marenzio Crudel, perché mi fuggi? (1587) Scaldava il sol (1582), Non vidi mai dopo notturna pioggia (1585), Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina Tu es Petrus (Delivery of the Keys), Missa Aeterna Christi Munera Bookings : https://www.auschoir.org/whats-on/keys-to-heaven/ They need people for the following tasks if you are happy to volunteer: putting out chairs - setting out glasses and pouring drinks at the post-concert reception - packing away chairs - washing glasses and clearing up after the reception. And, it's usually lots of fun! Please contact Eleanor Bridger if you have any preference for tasks.
- Kingston Arts – ‘Kings of Queen’ will be championing the music of Queen in ‘A Queen Extravaganza’ for one night only on Friday, 29th November at the Kingston City Hall. Cost: $35/Concession $30. Bookings and further detail: kingstonarts.com.au
- Christmas with the National Boys Choir of Australia. Saturday, 21st December, 7.30 p.m. This concert will feature the 180 voice Boys’ and Men’s Choir, with orchestra at Hamer Hall. Tickets: $61.20/Concession $51/Children $27.50. Bookings and further detail contact artcentremelbourne.com.au
Singing Soldier – Fred Smith. A note for your diary next year – Fred will be getting together with Liz Frencham in February, 2020, to play songs from their new records. Fred's new record is called "Domestic". Date: Saturday, 22nd - February, at The Spotted Mallard, 314 Sydney Road, Brunswick, Doors open at 7 p.m. Music starts at 8 p.m. If you’re interested, Fred has his Christmas CD offer – due early December. melbourne@fredsmith.com.au
Enjoy all the rehearsals and events leading up to Christmas.
Love this vintage Leunig:
VOCALLY WILD NEWSLETTER - OCTOBER, 2019
Sat, 19 Oct 2019Dear All,
Welcome to our new members this term – Una and Rosanne (2nd Sopranos), Irena, Pauline, Rebecca and Sheila - who will commence shortly (Altos), plus Brendan who joined us late last term. Also, a warm welcome back to many of you who had time out last term – the Christmas period is always such a busy and happy one, so let’s enjoy every minute!
Thank you all 79 of you who responded to our Questionnaire –your input is much appreciated. A summary will be issued shortly. Don’t forget to bring your blue raffle tickets on Tuesday!
Well done to Diana and the performers at Seniors’ Week Launch – see Edwina’s report below. Hopefully we will get another good turnout for the WWII Vets’ Lunch next month and some extra performances just announced below..
| DIARY | |
| FRIDAY, 8TH NOVEMBER | WW11 VETERANS' LUNCH |
| SUNDAY, 10TH NOVEMBER | BAREFOOT BOWLS SOCIAL |
| SATURDAY, 23RD NOVEMBER | BAYSIDE CAROLS REHEARSAL |
| WEDNESDAY, 27TH NOVEMBER | CAROLS AT FAMILY LIFE (TBC) |
| SATURDAY, 30TH NOVEMBER | BAYSIDE CAROLS REHEARSAL |
| TUESDAY, 3RD DECEMBER | TERM 4 CONCLUDES. 'OPEN MIC' |
| SATURDAY, 7TH DECEMBER | BAYSIDE CAROLS REHEARSAL |
| SUNDAY, 8TH DECEMBER | FINAL CAROLS REHEARSAL, 7.30 |
| TUESDAY, 10TH DECEMBER | BAYSIDE CAROLS IN THE PARK |
| FRIDAY, 13TH DECEMBER: | CAROLS AT MAYFLOWER (TBC) |
SENIORS' WEEK BAYSIDE LAUNCH - Edwina McLachlan
The 1st October marked the start of Seniors week and as you know Vocally Wild was invited to sing at the Bayside Launch. It was a beautiful day, warm and sunny and we had 35 choristers arrive to sing! It was a wonderful performance to a packed house at Milano’s Tavern in the Terminus room, and we sounded fabulous! We sang ‘Lean on Me’, ‘People Get Ready’, ‘House of the Rising Sun’ and finished with ‘This Little Light of Mine’.
Vocally Wild received rave reviews from many in the audience, which included Bayside Councillors and the Bayside Mayor and who knows .... perhaps this will lead to further invitations!
Thank you to all those who participated in the middle of a working day and during school holidays. Special thanks go to Diana and Patrice for giving of their time and also to David and Russel who spent yet again many hours, pre and post the performance, setting up so that our superb sound was heard by all!
Close friends, great neighbours and a few trusty Croatia bound helpers filled our home to bursting point for a wonderful night of food and entertainment.
We were fortunate indeed to have Patrice, Diana and Doug accept the invitation to do cameo performances. Thank you to all those who helped make it a success. We achieved our aim of raising over $700 on the night for the Viva Melbourne trip to Croatia next year.
|
SINGING LESSONS – Dianne Birch.
“Music is the Language of Memory”
If you would like to enhance your vocal range and confidence with singing, having one on one singing lessons is a great way to achieve that. If this is something you are interested in please be in touch with
Dianne Birch
M: 0410 583 496
|
VOCALLY WILD WEBSITE
Robert and Cherry have organised a link for Vocally Wild members to enable access to our Open Mic recordings, so follow the instructions below. Access is for Members only.
- Go to our Vocally Wild website.
- Members’ Home.
- Within Members’ Options click:
- REHEARSAL RECORDINGS button
- The title (in blue) that you wish to see.
- Then, depending on your computer’s software:
- Click the diagonal arrows to expand (bottom right hand corner of picture) OR
- Right click and select Full Page.
WWII VETS' LUNCH, BEAUMARIS RSL - FRIDAY, 8TH NOVEMBER
- Venue: Beaumaris Lawn Tennis Club, Banksia Reserve (off Balcombe Rd). Enter via Oak St.
- Time of arrival - Club will be open at 11.15 a.m. for Choir set up.
- 12.00 noon – welcome songs in the foyer to greet guests.
- 1.00 p.m. - Entrée served. Songs between Entree and Main course.
- 2.30 p.m. – Songs after Main course.
- 3.00 p.m. – Function concludes.
VOCALLY WILD END OF YEAR SOCIAL - SUNDAY, 10TH NOVEMBER, 2019
Our final social occasion for the year is at the Black Rock Bowls Club, Fern Street, Black Rock, from 3.00 til 8.00 p.m. Please come along, bring your family and enjoy this fun afternoon/evening. Remember, bowling isn’t compulsory – just a bit of fun if you want to take part. The main objective is getting together as it will be close to the end of our year. There is no charge. Barbecue food will be provided, for example: Sausages (variety), Hamburgers, Chicken, Salads, etc. However, if you wish to bring along some more ‘sophisticated’ barbecue fayre, you are welcome to do so. Please purchase your drinks, alcohol and soft drinks at the Club bar. The kitchen will be open for us to use. The Mega Raffle, in aid of Viva Melbourne’s choral trip to Croatia, will be drawn on this day. The prizes are amazing. A flyer is attached with full details and hard copy flyers will also be available.
If you decide to join in the fun and ‘challenge’ of bowling, to respect the integrity of the greens, we do ask that if your shoes aren’t completely flat soled, you bowl with bare feet. Thank you.
BAYSIDE CAROLS IN THE PARK
Please put the following dates and times in your diary! All rehearsals will be at the Brighton Town Hall.
- Saturday, 23rd November – 10.30am – 1.00 p.m.
- Saturday, 30th November – 10.30am – 1.00 p.m.
- Saturday, 7th December – 10.30am – 1.00 p.m.
- Sunday, 8th December – 7.00pm – 10.00 p.m. (Sausage sizzle will commence at 5.30 p.m.)
- Bayside Carols - Tuesday, 10th December - 7.30 p.m. – 9.30 p.m. (call time is 6.30 p.m.)
Some of you have asked to hear about the Viva Melbourne choir trip to Croatia in late March/early April, 2020. (Viva Melbourne is the name Vocally Wild use when singing away from Australia). There will be 36 people travelling, 28 singers (22 women, 6 men), 6 partners and 2 professionals. Most will be departing on 28th March to fly to Venice where the group will stay for 3 days and hopefully rehearse in one of the wonderful old Venetian churches. On the 1st April we will travel by bus to Porec in Istria. The International Festival of Choirs and Orchestras takes place from 1st to 5th April in Porec. Rehearsals commence on Sunday, 20th November – 2 this year and 6 more prior to departure. There will be a Concert on the 15th March when everyone will be invited. Thank you to all of you who have purchased Raffle tickets in aid of the Croatia trip. The prizes are amazing so good luck!!
HOBART 2020 UPDATE
We are about to formulate plans for our proposed Vocally Wild trip to the Festival of Voices in Hobart during July, 2020, so if you are interested, and you haven’t already got your name on the Expressions of Interest list, it will be at Choir on Tuesday. All people on the list will be contacted as soon as more information is available.
Our new members have been forwarded some information about these exciting choir trips and if anyone else is interested in either, please contact Lidia Maslin (Croatia) or Cecilia Stone (Hobart) or me
FAMILY LIFE
Family Life is a wonderful organisation, which runs amazing programmes in the local community. Two of our Vocally Wild members are extremely active in this charity and Lesley, who spoke to us last week at rehearsal, has brought to our attention a couple of interesting activities:
- “The Way of All Fish” - Wednesday, 23rd October Catch Up 4 Women – Drop In Wednesdays. Lesley has invited us to attend this rehearsed reading – a comedy by Elaine May, from 10.00 to 11.30 a.m. at the Family Life’s Cheltenham Op Shop, 1297 Nepean Highway. Lesley is part of this production which is presented by Two Mans Theatre in association with Mystical Dog Productions. Hopefully some of you will be able to attend and support Family Life with their Family Life Catch Up programme.
- Sing Carols - Wednesday, 27th November. Lesley has also invited a group from Vocally Wild to sing Carols at the Drop In as part of the Catch Up programme. If you can come along to the Cheltenham Op Shop for half an hour or so, they would be delighted. I will put a sheet at the back of the room at Choir on Tuesday for names of those interested in singing. They would be delighted if a group of about 15 could sing.
A short while ago a very cheerful group of Vocally Wilders sang with Patty Chaplin’s Ukulele group at Mayflower in Centre Road, Brighton. Patty and Mayflower have invited us to return to sing Carols to the residents and friends. I will put a sheet at the back of Choir on Tuesday night for you to add your name if you’re interested and able to come along. Time to be confirmed, but it is likely to be about 10.30 a.m.
CHICAGO – THE MUSICAL
Rose Olsen has asked me to remind you that she has a number of tickets left for “Chicago” at the Art Centre on 29th January, 2020, at 1.00 p.m. The price is excellent - $70 pp. Rose mentions that these would be wonderful Christmas gifts, or just a treat for yourselves! Payment is required by early November, so please contact Rose on 0401 277 815 or Kate at choir. Thank you.
MORE MUSICAL ITEMS OF INTEREST
- SINGING MEDITATION CIRCLE – Sunday, 24th November. 2.00 to 3.30 p.m. at Castlefield Community Centre. A relaxing session of Chant Songs. Tickets #20/$15 prebooked, or $25/$20 at the door. Contact: 9598 0662 or www.trybooking.com/BFLAW.
- LOCAL MUSIC - The Kingston Centre is very proactive with bringing live entertainment back to Moorabbin. A variety of concerts and band performances are planned for the next few months, so if you want to learn more, contact kingstonarts.com.au
- ST. DAVID’S DAY WELSH CONCERT – Friday, 28th February, 2020. The Victoria Welsh Choir returns to Elisabeth Murdoch Hall in 2020 to celebrate the rich Welsh musical tradition. Now in its 40th year, Victoria Welsh is a traditional Welsh male choir, singing in four part harmony. They perform hymns, ballads, show tunes, arias and Celtic favourites raising the roof in concert halls from Bangor to Bairnsdale. This is a night of great entertainment for all lovers of Wales’ musical heritage. The Choir’s conductor, Faleiry Koezkar, OAM, will share the podium with a visiting conductor from Wales. Tickets are on sale now. Time: 7.30 p.m. Price: from $30. For more details contact melbournerecitalcentre.com.au
It’s always good to read about interesting people. Our ex-Vocally Wilder, Patty Chaplin, has a famous cousin - Judy Nunn, the best-selling author who has recently released her new novel “Khaki Town’. You may have read some of her earlier novels. Judy and Patty originally hailed from Western Australia. Judy Nunn, you may remember, is also a well-known actor who appeared in ‘The Box’ in the 70’s who also spent 13 years in ‘Home and Away’. Judy is also married to an actor! Apparently a hilarious household. What fun.
Kindest regards,
Pat Lowry