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| Blackbutt Singers |
Special
concerts have always been touchstone events on the Esk Community Choir’s
musical calendar; those much-anticipated occasions around which diaries are
rearranged, and everyday life tries to take a back seat. The Blackbutt Singers’
35th Anniversary Concert, firmly locked into the calendar for 25th October, was
certainly no exception. With the words ‘SOLD OUT’ emblazoned across flyers and
Facebook posts well before the big day, anticipation was running high. All signs pointed to a celebration worthy of
35 remarkable years of music, memories and friendship and what a celebration it
became!
For many years, the Esk Community Choir and the Blackbutt
Singers have shared the stage across the Somerset and South Burnett regions,
fostering lasting friendships and building a loyal following, all united by a
shared love of music.
In the days leading up to this milestone event, relentless rain
had wreaked havoc across the region. Yet even the weather could not dampen the
spirit of this special occasion. This was far more than just an event; it was a
celebration of a life. It was a
celebration that simply could not be cancelled.
Even before the opening notes of
Jerry Estes’s Music Has Brought Us Together
filled the room, the kaleidoscope of colour, the charmingly adorned dining
tables and the treasure trove of memorabilia on display had already signalled
to the cavalcade of concertgoers that this was going to be anything but an
exercise in restraint.
Among the
special guests joining the celebrations were South Burnett Mayor Kathie Duff
and Councillor Linda Little, along with many former choir members who welcomed
the opportunity to reminisce, rekindle old friendships and reunite with current
members for this memorable 35-year milestone.
The occasion
also provided a fitting opportunity to pay tribute to those who had helped
shape the choir’s wonderful journey, particularly its founder and inaugural
Musical Director, Maree Hammond, and her successor, Judy Lawrence, whose 12
years at the helm following Maree’s retirement had continued to build upon that
enduring musical legacy.
Guided
throughout by the eloquent emcee, Keith Campbell, from the delightful opening
trilogy of songs presented by the Blackbutt Singers under the direction of their
present Choir Director, Julie Simpson, through to the wonderful performances
that followed from our own Esk Community Choir and Toowoomba’s Women in
Harmony, the afternoon was a glorious celebration of friendship, shared musical
journeys and, the joy of singing together in celebration of this very special
milestone. And, judging by the
enthusiastic response of a thoroughly appreciative audience, who were equally
delighted to sip and sup on a sumptuous afternoon tea throughout the
performances, the occasion was a beautiful reminder of the power of choral
music to uplift, unite and inspire.
Of
course, occasions such as these do not simply happen by chance. Behind every
successful celebration are the willing hands, and tireless efforts of those who
work so diligently behind the scenes, and it is to these wonderful people that
the Esk Community Choir extends its sincere gratitude.
To
Di, President of the Blackbutt Singers, Julie Simpson and their hardworking
committee, whose dedication and enthusiasm brought this memorable occasion to
fruition; to those responsible for the sensational lunchtime sandwiches that so
generously satisfied this gathering of singers; and, finally, to Alexis, our
very own Angel of
Music, whose boundless patience, guidance and extraordinary musical
gifts continue to inspire and enrich us, not only as individual singers, but as
a choir and as a community, we give our
heartfelt thanks.
By:
Sue Walker
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| Women in Harmony - Toowoomba |
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| Esk Community Choir |
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| Esk Community Choir |
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