Cooran Community Choir and Hinterland Harmonies, based in Pomona, are both led by passionate vocalist, Gen Douw.
The amalgamated result is a fabulous collection of humans from all walks of life with a common goal to enjoy singing in harmony together and have as much fun as possible doing it.
“Many of us hold a common belief that singing together is vital for our mental health and general well-being, and we really wouldn’t know what to do without choir now,” Gen said.
“There is always a lot of laughter in rehearsals, and the camaraderie is a beautiful thing to behold.
“We always welcome new members, no experience necessary, but we do request a sense of humour and a willingness to give anything (within reason) a go, even if it is a bit silly.“
Gen has been running Cooran Community Choir for over four years now, and Hinterland Harmonies only since October last year.
“Choir and singing are my happy place,“ she said.
“Singing in harmony with others is really the best feeling there is, I reckon.
“We are like a big family and support each other in many ways.
“Whatever you might have going on in your life, you can drop it all at the door on your way into the hall and forget about it for a while.“
Gen also runs Cafe Choir, which is a two-hour one-off singing workshop where she teaches a popular song in three or four-part harmony, accompanied by Steve Dennis on guitar.
Once the song is learnt, the whole group goes to a local venue like a cafe, bar, or public space, and flash-mobs the people there.
The last Cafe Choir was attended by about 100 people in Cooran Hall, and the flash-mob was down the road at the Noosa Hinterland Brewery.
“Cafe Choir is so much fun! It is really for absolutely anyone who has a voice,“ she said.
“The joy on everyone’s faces is just the best thing. I can’t stress enough how good singing is for you!“
Cooran Community Choir and Hinterland Harmonies will be performing at the Set4Life Celebration of Song concert at St Patrick’s Church on Sunday 4 May at 2pm.
Tickets are available from Humanitix or by messaging 0488 774 950.
