19 Dec 2022
A Glasgow community choir is on song for a stronger future after a successful concert sponsored by Robertson Homes.
Sounds International, which practices in Netherlee Church, will be 20 years old next year, and wanted to boost numbers and raise funds ahead of its big birthday.
Choir organiser, Bev Brown, explained: “2023 will be a big year for the choir with lots of activities planned for our 20th birthday but numbers have been decimated by Covid with many people moving away and the fears about communal singing.
“But the truth is that singing together is one of the most uplifting things you can do and boosts your mind and body. I defy anyone not to leave rehearsals on a huge high! And if you can speak you can sing – I would not want to do a solo but the joy is that in a group you blend in.”
Over the last two decades the choir has raised more than £100,000 for charities and good causes across the city but this year needs to fund raise for themselves. The choir, led by professional musicians, jazz pianist Dan Brown and soprano Rosie Lavery, were joined by local Netherlee school choirs, for the concert in Netherlee Church, which raised £1,200.
Bev explained: “It was a wonderful event, with the church full and we were delighted that the Lord Provost of East Renfrewshire, Councillor Mary Montague, also attended and said a few words. We are ourselves a charity and this concert allowed us not just to raise awareness and hopefully inspire others to join but to raise money.
“We are hugely grateful to Robertson Homes for sponsoring the event. I know they are a family company that cares about community and they did not hesitate when asked to support us.”
Robertson Homes Sales and Marketing Director, Sharon Spinelli, said: “Groups like Sounds International, do so much to enhance a community, linking people of all ages together and raising money. We are very proud to sponsor this year’s concert.”
The choir practices every Tuesday evening at Netherlee Church.
Bev said: “So much has been written about the mental health benefits of singing but the bottom line it is just so much fun – we want the choir to be around for another 20 years and suggest anyone considering joining, to get in touch.”
For more information contact Bev on: 0141 639 0490 / 0790 509 4495 or: bev.brown@mac.com
