30 Years of Singing – A Luncheon Celebration 18 November at the Narooma Golf Club
When Val Brown formed the Montague Choristers back in 1987, we are sure she did not envisage the many years of entertainment the Choir would give to the Narooma and Bermagui communities. At first, we were simply a small choir, giving concerts and engaging in Christmas services. Then a wonderful pianist, Phil Curtis came to town. Together with Val Brown, Dot Philip (dance coach), Edna McDowell (amazing costumes) Liz Ferguson (stage manager) and Val Tippins (backdrops) we hit the stage!
Above: Val Brown
Performances of Gilbert & Sullivan works such as the Mikado and Pirates of Penzance received wonderful responses from audiences. We celebrated the centenary of the Kinema in music and dance to full houses. There were many costumed shows that created laughter, relived memories and sometimes just let everyone have fun. We even managed to have our male chorus sing and dance at the same time!
Above: Prof Bill Hawkey
When Val left Narooma how lucky we were to have the renowned Prof Bill Hawkey take on the Musical Director’s position. He added a new direction that linked so perfectly with the old. We realised that we could sing the more difficult sacred and classical music like Mendelssohn’s Elijah as well as continue with variety and Gilbert & Sullivan performances. The Visiting Artist concerts that Bill and Elizabeth initiated under the auspices of the Montague Choristers continue to be a wonderful part of the Narooma musical year.
Above: Doctor Philip Hartstein
Since 2014, the choir has been under the baton of Doctor Philip Hartstein and again a new direction has been taken. Brahms, Tchaikovsky, Elgar, Dvorak, Purcell and other wonderful baroque, romantic and classical music sung acapella has honed the sound of the choir. No wonder we want to celebrate.
Please, Choristers old and new, join us for lunch on 18 November at the Narooma Golf Club. To reserve a place contact Rosemary Towers on 44762614.
