Deputy Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Elaine Boyes was one of up to 300 people who attended the Rejoice and Be Glad Gospel Concert at the Royal Northern College Of Music hosted by the Manchester Sing Out Choir on the 22nd October 2011.
The Manchester Sing Out Choir, accompanied by some of Manchester’s finest musicians and special guest performer Aaron T Aaron, blew the audience away with their harmonious vocals and inspirational gospel song arrangements. None was more blown away than the Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Elaine Boyes , who took to the stage to comment on how refreshing it was to see people from differing cultures and age groups coming together in unity. She said, “the last time I came to this venue was to take part in a pantomime many years ago! It is wonderful to return and enjoy a wonderful group of people who have worked so hard together to put on such a fantastic show! To see people from the community of varying backgrounds stand and sing together is great. I wish the Manchester Sing Out Choir all the best for the future.”
The 70 member strong community choir is based in Ancoats and boasts a multicultural and cross-generational membership from throughout greater Manchester. It was founded on the belief that music and singing is one way to help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour, raise levels of education and strengthen communities within the North West. This vision has become more prevalent in today’s climate.
The Rejoice and Be Glad concert is just one of the annual concerts held by the choir and gives its members the opportunity to showcase their new found skills and confidence before an audience of over 300 people! Choir members meet every Tuesday to learn songs, develop vocal ability, build self esteem and confidence whilst forming great friendships. This unity and love for what they do is evident at every concert and radiates to the audience through every song rendered.
Wayne Ellington, Choir Director said, “The concert aimed to put a smile on people’s faces and give a message of hope during the current economic uncertainty. And judging by the audience’s reaction, it certainly did that!”
With Christmas just around the corner, Manchester Sing Out Choir excitedly prepare for the next Gospel concert on the 14th December 2011 to be held at the iconic Band on the Wall.
