The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Lack of voices may silence town choir and end 83 years of Angus concerts
Group issues plea for locals to join them and keep sound alive
A lack of voices may silence an Angus choir which has been singing for 83 years.
Arbroath Male Voice Choir has said it is in crisis and desperately needs more members to survive.
Formed in 1934, the choir has performed alongside many musical talents over the years, including Lesley Garrett, Jamie MacDougall, Cheryl Forbes, Margaret Keys, Gordon Cree and Karen Cargill.
President Steve Cargill said: “Unfortunately due to a combination of circumstances including illness, old age and changing personal circumstances, a number of long standing members have had to retire in recent months.
“We urgently need new voices in both the tenor and bass sections. We appeal to men across Dundee and Angus to join us. If you enjoy singing then please come along.
“There is no formal audition – enthusiasm is the only requirement. The choir sings a wide range of music – enjoyment is the key word.”
The Arbroath Male Voice Choir meets on Mondays at 7.30pm in Knox’s Church Hall and rehearsals resume on Monday under the direction of Adam Baliga.
Mr Cargill said the choir was looking for singers of any level, from shower room to concert hall.
He said: “The choir has been a wellloved part of the local musical scene since 1934 but without new blood it will sadly cease to be a viable ensemble and will fold.”
The choir performs two major concerts each year and often support local charitable and community groups with small concerts too.
There are four vocal sections – the first and second tenors (the upper voices) and the baritones and basses (the lower voices).
Prospective members can simply turn up on Monday, or for further information contact secretary Richard Irvine by email on richard.j.irvine@talk21.com or call 01241 872969.