Flashing new Dubbo residents
ESTABLISHED in 2004 for a singular show, Palmer Street Singers have evolved into a recognised choir performing in Dubbo and surrounding towns.
Managing director, Di Clifford, and her choir performed at the New Residents night at the Western Cultural Centre last week and surprised the audience with a flash mob.
During her speech, Ms Clifford addressed that the group is looking for new members to join the choir.
“Flash mobs don’t usually happen around Dubbo,” she smiled, saying that she was inspired by international videos of people in airports and largely populated venues.
“I had to explain to the choir what a flash mob was,” Ms Clifford told Dubbo Photo News that the group has been practising on how to walk and sing simultaneously.
“Everyone was pleased with the idea,” she explained, saying she needed approval before commencing the flash mob for safety precautions and was surprised with the support of the idea.
“The easiest answer would have been no, but it was nice hearing how excited people were.”
Mrs Clifford said the members of the choir were looking forward to spreading the joy of the choir alongside new Dubbo residents/
The choir was invited to perform at the ANZAC Day service in Victoria Park, and performing at such a special event was “an honour” Mrs Clifford told Dubbo Photo News.
She shared that the choir specialises in performing in retirement villages, but also showcases its talents in churches and other venues.
“One of my favourite memories is when we sang at Hymn-fest in Narromine,” she continued, saying the group performed a song originating from Argentina which had a Spanish line in it.
“The minister of the church was from Chile,” she smiled, saying it felt special communicating with him through a song in his native language.
Ms Clifford explained that the group members often feel good when singing together, and there have been times when she or other group members did not want to attend practise but were thankful for doing so.
“It has been proven through studies that music makes people feel better,” she added, saying she often feels four times as better after rehearsals.
Aware of their audience’s age demographic, the Palmer Street Singers follow an 11 month schedule including Irish, jazz, gospel, easy music and Christmas carols.
“Depending on the time or themes of the year, we often perform according to significant dates.
“At home I have folders of all the music we sing – I have five folders of Christmas alone,” Ms Clifford laughed.
Due to the pandemic, the choir have not been performing as regularly as they were, but Ms Clifford announced that the group is ready to perform once again.
If you are interested in joining the Palmer Street Singers, please contact Di Clifford on 0458032150.