BASSETERRE St. Kitts, February 8th, 2013 - This choir has graced many a concert stage, belting out classic, contemporary, gospel and folk tunes, the voices of its members blending in beautiful four-part harmony. Who is this group? The St. Christopher Choral Society (SCCS), St. Kitts’ largest non-denominational choir. Diverse in its membership as well as its music, the choir includes persons from across St. Kitts and Nevis - younger and more seasoned singers, locals as well as students and expatriates, and persons from a variety of religious and cultural backgrounds – truly making it a reflection of voices from across the Federation.
Members of the group say that they come together for the simple joy of singing. “I love singing and I do it for relaxation” remarks George Warner, tenor, while soprano Eleisa Maynard states that being in the choir is an ongoing learning experience. “I am continually being exposed to various types of music from around the world and challenged to expand my vocal stylings as I embrace music in its multifaceted-expression and ongoing evolution”, she says. Many members have enjoyed participation in the group for over fifteen years, back when the group was affectionately known as the ‘College Choir’ under the directorship of the notable Mr. Ian Hodge.
In 2005, the group was officially renamed The St. Christopher Choral Society, and the reins passed on to retired directress, Ms. Veronica Phillipson, who ably led the group for five years. The SCCS is now headed by Mr. Clyde Richardson, himself a seasoned director. According to Mr. Richardson, membership in the choir is not only fun and relaxing, but offers several benefits. “Attending music rehearsals is a cathartic experience for the music lover. With the varying genres of music, and at times the sweat that goes into learning the intricate parts, there is often a sense of appreciation and accomplishment when the group is able to perform the pieces flawlessly as one unified voice”.
The SCCS has performed to packed audiences over the last few years at its annual concert, a highlight of the island’s Performing-Arts Calendar. In addition, the choir traditionally hosts the ‘Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols’, a Christmas treat enjoyed by many.
With exciting plans for the year ahead, the SCCS is currently on a membership drive to welcome new voices. According to Mr. Richardson, interested persons need only have a love of singing, the ability to ‘hold a tune’, and commitment to regular practices. The SCCS meets every Monday evening at 7:30 pm at the Old Boys School/Methodist Church Hall on Seaton Street. More information on the choir can be found by visiting the group’s Facebook Page at: http://www.facebook.com/SCCS.KN.
Love to sing? Come join the SCCS!
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