Skip to content

Cowichan Vocal Collection presents 2 shows; Rivernotes choir is back and seeking pianist

A feast for the ears
31059847_web1_221124-CCI-choirs-info-Cowichan-Vocal-Collective_1
The Cowichan Vocal Collective, from left: Christina Taylor, Bonnie Louden, Michelle Weckesser, Sheena Hiles, Tom Ellis, Everett Dixon, Kevin Louden, Stephanie Robinson, and Caroline Wilson. (Photo courtesy of Cowichan Vocal Collective)

There’s choir news in the Cowichan Valley.

First up, the Cowichan Vocal Collective is presenting a fundraising concert, All Is Bright, in two upcoming performances.

The first will be held on Friday, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. at Duncan United Church (246 Ingram St.), and the second will be held on Sunday, Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. at Sylvan United Church (985 Shawnigan Lake-Mill Bay Rd.).

This talented group will be sharing a variety of choral Christmas pieces, from sacred Latin songs to jazzy holiday tunes to traditional Christmas favourites, says a press release for the shows.

Admission to both performances is by cash donation at the door. Concert proceeds will support the Cowichan Women Against Violence Society.

This mixed voice chamber choir started in 2019 and is comprised of nine local Cowichan Valley musicians. Singers share their voices in concerts where proceeds support local charitable causes.

Past recipients have included the Duncan Homeless Prevention Fund and ARC: Assisting Refugees in Cowichan.

Collectively, the singers have performed in many advanced and professional choirs across Canada, including Vancouver Chamber Choir, Elektra Women’s Choir, Encore! Women’s Choir, Phoenix Chamber Choir, University of Victoria Chamber Singers, Chor Leoni, University of Alberta Concert Choir, and many more.

For more information, including upcoming concert dates, visit the choir Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/cowichanvocalcollective

•••

A couple of things needed to happen for the Rivernotes Choir to return to Lake Cowichan. The choir shut down at the beginning of the pandemic and it’s original director, Judith Quinlan moved away.

COVID restrictions have all but ended, and Quinlan has returned to the Lake area which means the choir is back, baby!

“I have returned to the Lake Cowichan area and the Rivernotes are back in action,” Quinlan said.

The group meets weekly at Ed’s Coffee House every Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and women are welcome.

“This is a no-audition group open to all self-identified women and no previous choir experience is necessary,” Quinlan said. “COVID vaccinations are required.”

The cost to join the group is $20 per season.

There’s still one hurdle to clear, however, before the group can make any public appearances.

“We are desperately searching for a pianist to accompany the choir,” Quinlan said. “This will be necessary before we can book any performances.”