Peace Arch Chorus VIRTUALLY

Peace Arch Chorus - “PAC” is carrying on virtually as much as possible.  Four members, Tenor, Lead, Baritone, Bass, started weekly Monday to Friday free 40 minute zoom rehearsals the end of March. Other members join occasionally.  The rehearsals were initiated by a need to continue practising during these extraordinary times. Hoping that by assembling a quartet, they could hear all voices come together, and they would be more successful. Unfortunately, technology didn’t have a platform that met our needs so they moved to Zoom meetings.

Singing against the different voices (three muted) was challenging but also it brought a greater awareness and accountability to the intricate harmonies and rhythms. They drill challenging sections and have gained confidence in singing in such an exposed way. They definitely miss singing together, but have gained valuable experience. The daily rehearsals allow time to connect and support each other, review repertoire, and they have learned five new songs! It’s so much better than practicing alone!   

Mid-April the entire chorus joined Zoom rehearsals for one and half to two hours on our regular rehearsal night.   Director Emma Honrud leads warm ups; we share good news; sectionals in break out rooms; Sing! with social time/wine down.

Recently a backyard rehearsal has started with four Leads and one Bass who meet twice weekly (weather permitting) to review contest songs, repertoire and three new songs.   This group could accommodate a couple more… four parts would even be better.  They appreciate being able to connect in person and of course some wine down.

The PAC conducted Team meetings and the Annual General Meeting via zoom.  Chorus dues have been reduced to reflect the lower expenses due to no rehearsal space rent during this pandemic/isolation period.  Also the PAC plans to purchase additional music and learning tracks to encourage members to continue singing in order to keep their skills sharp.     

Our latest venture was a Chorus recording of “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” (Theme from Cheers) mixed and mastered in Garage Band by Emma & Josh Honrud.  That was exciting listening!   Another recording is planned in a couple of weeks. 

Another exciting discovery for the zoom quartet was the affirmation of the zoom rehearsals.  During a fundraiser pick up in a parking lot they sang with social distancing in absolute confidence successfully. 

Bev Feick et al

Communications Coordinator

Peace Arch Chorus

Our hardworking Sharlene Kwok put together this lovely tribute to our chorus and the Region 26 Competition - here we all are in our costumes but not in Calgary.

Exciting Addition!

On August 6, Josh Honrud and Peace Arch Chorus’s director Emma (Gibson) Honrud welcomed their son Maxwell Ritchie Honrud into the world. The new family is doing well and of course, we’re all very excited to meet him soon!