Sidney Serenaders sing old favourites and new

This senior choir, comprised of residents of Sidney and area, has been in existence for several years and has undergone many changes.

A small memo dated 1986 names the originator as Bill Gibbons. By 1972, the Serenaders was a thriving organization. The minutes for November of that year show that a formal organization was to be set up, and a board of 10 directors with a president, treasurer and secretary was created.

No time was wasted. A grant from New Horizons was requested and a generous $1,000 was awarded for the year. These funds were spent on music, chartering a bus for major trips, new uniform dresses for the ladies, and the princely sum of $3 per trip for the accompanist. A music stand was purchased for the music director, and of course, rent was paid, though this is not mentioned. Rehearsals took place in the old Senior Citizen Centre in Sidney.

In 1974, Bill Gibbons died and the minutes stated he will always be remembered as founder, musical director and friend.

The choir pressed on with plans for a busy Spring. The Old Age Pensioners Branch (OAP) in Ganges, Saltspring Island, requested a concert, and the transportation member was requested to investigate the possibility of getting two buses for the visit – one for the Serenaders and one for local OAP.

Several concerts were given at local elementary schools. In June 1975, the choir renamed itself “The Happy Choristers”, and in 1976, an outing of more than 30 people went down to Blaine, Washington, presumably to give a concert.

It seems the Happy Choristers reverted to their old name shortly after that. Future minutes are filed under the Sidney Serenaders name.

In October 1976, budget discussions included the possibility of getting tuned handbells, and by 1982, there was a bell ringing conductor. That must have been a popular item on the program. In1978, a Hula Hula Night was held at the Silver Threads Centre. After a sumptuous meal, guests were entertained by the Serenaders – all clothed in colourful caftans.

Eventually, Silver Threads ceased to be and was replaced by the Shoal Centre. A smaller Serenaders group rehearsed there, singing at birthday teas, etc., until Shoal needed the rehearsal room. The Serenaders then relocated to St. Andrews Church where they remain today.

A group of about 20 seniors meet every Tuesday morning to rehearse. Their program includes old favourites and new, bright and cheerful music, and usually a hymn. Dress code nowadays consists of a white top or shirt, black pants and a colourful tie. Concerts are local – at Saanich Peninsula Hospital, Mount Newton and local senior homes. The group is under the able direction of Nancy Coutts, after years of outstanding leadership by the late Gordon Waugh. A grant from the Arts Council helps pay for rent, music, etc.

There are many calls for volunteers and few people available, but this group of seniors who love to sing and entertain is flourishing and proud to carry on the aims of the Sidney Serenaders.

Newcomers welcome. Call Eileen at: 250-652-6789. Photos courtesy of Amica at Beechwood in Sidney.