Great songs for Great Wall

By Bridget Brady
A TRIP of a lifetime awaits the Cranbourne Chorale.
The choir will be hitting the high notes in September when 34 of its 56 members travel to China to meet and sing with three Chinese choirs, an experience that Cranbourne Chorale secretary Jennie Toyne described as “a true celebration of diversity through the arts”.
During what is sure to be a highlight for the choir, they will sing on one of the world’s greatest landmarks- the Great Wall of China.
“That was just the icing on the cake,” Ms Toyne said.
“You can’t buy those sorts of experiences.”
The choir will meet, socialise and sing with three choirs in Xiamen, Beijing and Shanghai during their 12-day trip.
The Cranbourne Chorale was invited by the choir in Xiamen, whose members wanted to broaden their exposure to western music and improve their English.
“We grabbed it with both hands,” Ms Toyne said.
The choirs are sending music abroad so they each have songs to sing together when they meet.
For some in the Cranbourne Chorale, it will be their first time travelling overseas.
“They are just so excited. People join this sort of thing (choirs) for friendship and for enjoyment and to have fun and perfect their skills. And to be able to take it even further and travel with friends and to mix with different cultures is a fantastic opportunity.”
Those taking part in the tour will be funding their own trips. Also paying his own way is Casey councillor Wayne Smith, who will join the choir as the official photographer on the trip.
Ms Toyne said the choir was thrilled to have Cr Smith, who she called “the honorary minister of the arts in Casey”, to join them on the trip.
“I’m very proud to go along and be part of this opportunity. They are going to put Casey on the map and showcase Australia and Casey and I’m glad that I will be there,” Cr Smith said.
The Cranbourne Chorale will fittingly perform a concert called Around the World in 80 Minutes- plus interval on 18 July.
The concert will be held at the Cranbourne Community Theatre and will include a performance from guest singer Shu-Cheen Yu.
Tickets cost $15 for adults, $12 for concession $6 for students and $35 for a family.
To book call 5998 7485.