Members of the Cantata Choir in rehearsal. Picture by Peter Boam.
MUSICBUDDING choristers on the IW are being asked to loosen up their larynxs and join one of the Island’s leading choirs.
The Cantata Choir currently has 130 members and performs both classical and modern pieces of choral music. Now, the choral group is on the hunt for younger members as they prepare for their latest show — a performance of the epic Creation by Haydn at Cowes Yacht Haven next month.
The choir has performed many of the great choral works over the past 30 years and employs professional solo singers from the mainland to complement their stunning shows, which usually take place at the Medina Theatre.
They have launched a recruitment drive for new members at the same time as publicising their latest concert at Cowes Yacht Haven which is due to take place on April 17.
Chair of the choir and headteacher of Nettlestone Primary School, Caroline de Belder, said: "We have been going for some time on the IW and we want to make sure we go on for a lot longer.
"The age group of the choir is mostly in our 40s and above and one of the things I am very aware of is that if we are going to be sustainable, we have to encourage younger people to join."
The choir is particularly looking for people in their 20s and 30s to join.
Caroline added: "Choirs have been on the TV quite a lot recently. It is so enjoyable."
The choir’s musical director, Rachel Tweddle, added that no formal musical training was necessary to join but knowledge of music would help.
She said: "We are happy to have anyone come along and see how they get on. The standard is quite intense and takes a lot of work. People have to love music and have a willingness to work hard."
The choir rehearses on a Monday evenings at Nodehill Middle School between 7.30pm and 9pm. Anyone wanting to find out more can contact Caroline on 01983 613171.
Reporter: davidn@iwcpmail.co.uk