The founder of Reed Choir is thrilled that the group have been shortlisted for a prestigious prize in a national competition.
The founder of Reed Choir is thrilled that the group have been shortlisted for a prestigious prize in a national competition.
Liz Kershaw founded the choir back in 2014 drawing on her experience performing at cathedrals and abbeys during her school years.
The choir at St Mary’s Church started with 10 people, but has now tripled in size and is going from strength to strength.
Mum-of-two Liz said: “We thought it would de good to have a choir for evensong, so we started with 10 people and now have 30 active members aged from eight to 80.
“We really enjoy it and have a laugh – we take the music seriously, but don’t take ourselves too seriously.”
The group’s efforts have paid off as they have been shortlisted in the Great British Prom Choir Competition.
The prize is to sing on stage alongside the National Philharmonic Orchestra for the Great British Prom, held in the grounds of Knebworth House on Sunday, August 20.
About the competition, Liz said: “We couldn’t believe it when we found out we were shortlisted.”
The choir is asking people to go onto the ‘Great British Prom’ Facebook page and comment ‘Reed Choir’ in the comments section to help them win, with the result to be announced next Sunday, June 4.
Choir members are also busy currently rehearsing for a charity concert to raise money for the group, the church and another worthy cause, Jessie’s Fund.
“It’s a national charity which helps children with complex needs communicate by using music, we wanted to do something for a fitting cause,” said Liz, who works as a higher level teaching assistant at Reed First School.
The concert is being held at St Mary’s in Church Lane from 7.30pm on Saturday, June 10.
The first half will be choral music from Mozart to Elgar, with the second half featuring comtemporary songs like Can You Feel the Love Tonight? Fields of Gold, and Something Inside So Strong.
The choir meets on the first Sunday of the month from 4pm to 5.30pm and always welcomes new members – no auditions are required.
For more information or for concert tickets, priced at £10 each for adults but children go free, email lizkershaw@hotmail.co.uk. See www.jessiesfund.org.uk for more about the charity
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