RFQ Choir Comeback by Madeleine Hanlon

In September 2009, the RFQ Choir kicked off its comeback!

I found this particularly gratifying as I was involved when the choir originally formed back in 2003. The RFQ Choir carried on for 3 years in that format and successfully wrote, produced and recorded a song as part of the “Journeys of Recovery” DVD and all of this was done under the musical directorship of our choir leader, Ms Ann Bermingham.

So, after a break of a few years, we decided to see if people were interested in bringing the choir back to life and we were fortunate to again work alongside Ann in the restoration of this important aspect of the RFQ Community. The RFQ Choir began weekly rehearsals in preparation for a performance at the RFQ End of Year Party with a combination of original and newer members that included both clients and staff of the organisation.

While everyone involved worked diligently, we also enjoyed the music, activities and the opportunity to come together and spend time with each other every week. The RFQ Choir encapsulates the organisation’s culture, where every voice is heard, everyone’s input is appreciated and each member is valued.

The final performance was made up of a number of songs and was a definite highlight at the End of Year Party, going off without a hitch! The choir can be proud of what they have achieved in such a short timeframe and it is an indication that there is more to look forward to next year!

Many thanks to all involved for your commitment, humour and attentiveness and a big thanks to Ann for taking a group of singers and turning them into a fantastic CHOIR!

Ryan’s Place consumer Angela writes about her experience with the choir

On the 25th November, Ryan’s Place consumers and staff went to the RFQ Christmas Party and the choir, which I was a part of, sang for everyone. I had been going to choir practice for about 6 sessions. Matt, Josie, Tammy, Luke and I met up at Mt. Gravatt to join the others. Ann was our singing teacher and she taught us to sing in harmony. The songs we sang were easy to learn.

On the night we were all very nervous but everyone said we sounded great. The hearing impaired people were a pleasure to be involved with.  Thank you to Joel, Kristy and Peggy for taking us to practice.