During the month of September, the school district's premier choir is recruiting new voices.
The District 57 Tapestry Singers is based at Quinson Elementary School but the group is compiled of singers from a wide number of schools. Anyone is eligible from anywhere in the city and broader region, as long as they are enrolled in a public school.
The group is also halved into a younger and an older ensemble, as well as sometimes combined.
"In September, Tapestry Singers opens their rehearsal doots to singers who would like to try out," said choir director Carolyn Duerksen. "We call them 'Everybody Welcome' sessions. It gets the returning singers warmed up again and it gives new voices a chance to come and try it out, see if they like it."
The benefits are numerous. Duerksen appreciates the outreach and word-of-mouth made possible by multiple schools being involved in the one group. Parents appreciate that their aspiring young singers still have a way to develop their skills and meet other like-minded kids even if their individual school has no vocal program.
"I have been a parent volunteer for several years (with District 57 Tapestry Singers)," said Akiko Morin. "Tapestry has been beneficial for my children to learn and enjoy music, discipline and make new friendships."
The group gets exciting opportunities for public performances, which enhances the experience value for the group's participants. For example, Tapestry is one of the featured guests of the Prince George Symphony Orchestra at a PGSO concert event on Oct. 22 at Vanier Hall. The concert entitled O Canada! Celebrating Canada's 150th Birthday is loaded in collaborations, with a special emphasis on youth.
"It is an incredible honour to be asked by a professional orchestra to join them on stage, and like I tell the kids, it's not an accident. These singers should feel good about this because they have earned it. Their reputation has been proven," said Duerksen.
This is the 11th seasons for Tapestry. The junior choir is comprised of kids Grade 4-7 while the senior choir is for those in Grade 7-12.
"The mission of Tapestry Singers is to create a joyful and beautiful sound, to strive for choral excellence, and to foster a life long love of music and music making," Duerksen said.
For more information regarding their 2017-2108 season or how to attend an Everybody Welcome rehearsal, please e-mail: cduerksen@sd57.bc.ca or visit the District 57 Tapestry Singers website at tapestrysingersd57.weebly.com.
