MUSIC lovers from across the Mid North Coast were treated to two memorable afternoons of song and celebration when the Bowraville Theatre Singers took to the stage for their latest production, ‘Harp Song’, alongside special guest Claire Patti.
Held on Saturday, 13 June and Sunday, 14 June, both performances at the Bowraville Theatre sold out well in advance, highlighting the popularity of the community choir and the anticipation surrounding the collaboration with the acclaimed Melbourne-based entertainer.
Under the musical direction of Paul Jarman, the Bowraville Theatre Singers joined forces with Claire Patti to present an eclectic and engaging repertoire that blended Celtic music with jazz classics.
The concerts opened with a moving and atmospheric rendition of Wuuban Barri, the choir’s Acknowledgement to Country.
From there, audiences were transported through a rich collection of Irish songs, featuring Claire Patti on the Celtic harp, interwoven with much-loved jazz standards.
Claire Patti is a composer, director, arranger, musician and singer, and audiences on the Mid North Coast were treated to a showcase of her remarkable versatility and artistry.
Together with Paul Jarman, she created a program that challenged and inspired the choir.
Credit was given to the Bowraville Theatre Singers for mastering the demanding pieces and delivering them with enthusiasm and commitment.
The joy of performing was evident throughout both concerts, with the choir producing a rich and harmonious sound that earned standing ovations for both the singers and their guest artist.
The Bowraville Theatre Singers draw their membership from throughout the Nambucca Valley and neighbouring communities including Sawtell, Bellingen, Scotts Head and Eungai.
Reflecting the inclusive nature of the group, members range in age from their twenties through to their nineties.
“Far from resting on the success of Harp Song, we are already preparing for our next concerts, to be held in November,” The Bowraville Theatre Singers’ Helen Kirkpatrick told News Of The Area.
“The theme, Every Song’s A Winner, will feature familiar favourites spanning a range of genres, from classical and folk through to popular music.”
Weekly rehearsals are held on Tuesday evenings at the Nambucca Heads Uniting Church Hall.
The choir warmly welcomes enquiries from prospective new members through its Facebook page or website, with singers of all ages and abilities encouraged to come along and experience the camaraderie and joy that community singing can bring.
By Mick BIRTLES
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