The Voices United Choir is sponsored by Clearwater United, and started out just as church members and friends learning harmony for hymns and carols. But a decade or so later, it has now grown to about 40 voices putting on a full cantata (a musical production of song and word).
Singers in the choir are people who love to make music in a relaxed, unprofessional setting from Little Fort to Vavenby. Practices are held once a week with the whole choir; individual sections also meet once a week to practice their own parts.
The piece they will be performing this year is a brand new cantata by Lloyd Larson called ‘Behold The Star’.
The cantata comes at large expense. The cost of books, music and performance rights, was paid for with the $10 fee that each choir member contributes; and this is something the choir has saved for over three years.
During this year’s presentation, people will hear snippets of carols throughout the cantata.
The choir will also be singing three other numbers at the beginning of the performance; they are not part of the cantata, but do add to the musical experience.
Director of the event is Louise Weaver; a retired teacher and dedicated choir member, who members of the choir say is a wonderful leader, has a beautiful alto voice, and is the lady with the baton.
The Cantata will be taking place on Dec. 8, at the Barriere Senior Center, and starts at 4 p.m., (doors will open around 3:30). The whole presentation will take place in just over an hour.
Admission to the event is free, or by donation. ALL proceeds will be going to the Yellowhead Pioneer Residence Society.
Choir members are not paid, nor does the United Church take any of the money for event expenses.
The Barriere Senior’s Society is kindly donating their hall for the event.