MORE VOICES NEEDED
Men of the Deeps seeking new members
Men of the Deeps seeking new members.
It’s probably the only singing group in North America that you have to be a coal miner to join.
But even with few working mines remaining on Cape Breton, the Men of the Deeps are not expecting too many problems in recruiting new members when they hold auditions on Feb. 9-10. After a successful sold-out tour throughout Ontario and their first Christmas release at the end of 2017, group director Stephen Muise says he’s looking forward to many more concerts at the helm of North America’s only coal miners chorus.
“It’s exciting. The choir just celebrated 51 years of existence with no signs of slowing down, so we’re planning for the next 50 years and we’d be happy to take along some brand new voices to help us get there,” said Muise.
Since forming in 1966, the Men of the Deeps have performed across Canada, released six albums and have charmed audiences with their music.
Muise says the group should have at least 28 members and they’re short a few right now but if there’s enough interest, several more will be added.
“A lot of these guys are kitchen
guitar players, and they don’t realize that they have this talent, this ability,” said Muise. “And sometimes it just takes a bit of encouragement to get them out. If you were to poll the guys in the group right now and ask them if they ever thought they would be doing something like this, the answer would be no
“These guys have never pictured themselves in a choir touring the country. There are so many guys who would sit there and say no, I can’t do that — I don’t know how to sing parts — but it’s there, it’s waiting for them and all they have to do is take the leap.”
Those wishing to audition must apply by Friday at 5 p.m. Applications are available for
download on the group’s website, menofthedeeps.com or by calling the group’s secretary at 902-5674830. A copy is also available on their Facebook page.
“Successful applicants will have at least two years of work experience in or around a coal mine,” said group president Gordon Sherriff. “We’re the only choir where the second requirement is that you have to be able to sing. You need to represent as a miner first, if you are to become a member of the Men of the Deeps.”
Muise says potential applicants shouldn’t worry too much about the audition.
“Anyone who thinks they can sing at all should show up,” said Muise. “This is not restricted to anybody, to any kind of voice.
We just want people who want to share this story with us. It’s the spirit of the Men of the Deeps that trumps all.
“We can teach anybody to sing.”