South Canterbury’s long running Height of Harmony barbershop chorus is set to sing to a different tune after welcoming a new musical director.
Originally the Rhythm & Green chorus, the group formed in 1991 and has performed at various conventions, concerts, and even made an appearance on the Praise Be television programme, which was filmed at the Timaru Sacred Heart Basilica in 2005.
After saying goodbye to former musical director Ros Taylor, who had held the role for 17 years, the chorus has now welcomed veteran barbershop director Dean Roberts into the role.
Mr Roberts said he had very much been enjoying the position so far.
‘‘There is good talent here and a lot of enthusiasm which are the two main things you really need.
‘‘I’m very happy with what they’ve been doing. They’re doing some lovely songs and I’m looking forward to working them to a level where they can go out and perform locally on the streets.’’
Mr Roberts moved to Timaru from Hawke’s Bay four years ago, bringing with him a plethora of musical knowledge that the chorus hoped to now take full advantage of.
He began his degree in musical education in Chicago in 1979 and since returning to New Zealand had been the head of the music department at Hasting’s Boys’ High School, the musical director for the Jazz Club big band, a musical director for numerous on-stage productions and a barbershop director for 15 years.
Historically the Height of Harmony chorus was men only, but in the last seven years they have welcomed three women into the ranks, bringing the total number of members to 14.
Mr Roberts said one of his goals for the year was increasing that number.
‘‘I would like to try and boost us up to 20, especially by getting a few younger members if we can.
‘‘The best way to get members is to do a really good performance for people and then people want to join you.
‘‘We are really looking to consolidate and lift our level of performance to make that happen.’’
Chorus president and lead Russell Hendry said that with members primarily of an older age group, the activity was very beneficial.
‘‘It’s important to do something like this to keep our brains active. It certainly gives you a buzz, so it must be doing some good up there.
‘‘There’s a discipline in it as well— you are learning the words and watching the musical director. It’s a team effort.
‘‘We get a big kick out of singing for other people and even the practices can be very uplifting.’’
The chorus rehearses on Thursday evenings from 7pm to 9pm. Anyone with an interest barbershop singing, or just wanting to come and listen, can contact Russell on 027 208 2044.
