The Isle of Man Federation of Women’s Institutes Choir represented the island in the first heat of the WI Singing for Joy centenary choir competition held at Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury on October 10.
Although the ladies ‘sang their socks off’ they did not secure a guaranteed place in the final to be held in Birmingham on March 14, 2015.
However, they did get an excellent reaction from the audience with many seeking them out after the contest to say how much they had enjoyed the performance.
The choir may still get into the final as best runner up, this place will be announced in early December when all five heats have been completed.
Being ‘in it to win it’ was only a very small part of the choir’s two and a half year journey to the heats, the emphasis has always been on fun and friendship, which they have in abundance.
Under the guidance of conductor, Karen Elliott, the choir membership has grown steadily but there is always room for new members.
Rehearsals are held at 7pm every Tuesday evening in The Guild Room, Atholl Street, Peel.
Membership of the choir is open to all in the WI and no audition is necessary. Any lady who feels she might like to join will be warmly welcomed. More information about the WI and the WI Choir is available from the IOMFWI Office on 818194.
There will be two opportunities to hear the choir sing next month, the first is a supper and Serenade evening at Peel Golf Club on November 15 organised by Peel Belles WI.
In addition to the choir there will be solos from Karen and a sing-a-long of WW1 songs.
Admission is by ticket obtainable from Delaine on 801200 until 31st October, the price is £7 per person which includes the supper.
The second chance to hear the choir will be on Sunday, November 16, when they will be taking part in the evening service at Bride Church.
Su Collins
IoMFWI
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