Local music teacher and choir director Lisa Ward is branching out further with the start-up of a new community choir for youth ages 14 to 21.
Ward is organizing a new choir called 'ihana', with the goal of providing "quality music, personalized instruction with other talented musicians and opportunities for performance, musical expression, travel and fun."
It's a perfect name for the group – a Finnish word meaning 'wonderful, fantastic and adorable'.
"If you look at the demographics of Red Deer, the City has really grown a lot," explains Ward of why she wanted to start a fresh venture with ihana. For those in high school, and just out of high school, there isn't much in the community to get involved in choir-wise, she added.
"I'm hoping this will support the school choirs, and maybe encourage more programs to get underway."
Excitement for the new choir is building – already, about 18 have signed up and Ward would ultimately like to see a group numbering about 30. There may also be a jazz component to the choir as well. The focus, however, will largely be on performing contemporary music with other genres represented as well.
Ward said choirs offer not just a place to hone vocal and musical skills, but an environment that is conducive to forming lasting friendships focused on a common passion.
Auditions are currently running – those interested in setting up a time or learning more can contact Ward via email at [email protected] or by calling 403-886-2677.
On May 16, Ward held a 'come out and sing with us' event for those who have already auditioned for the choir or those who would like to audition.
Besides her busy schedule teaching music and choir at Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School, Ward founded another community choir called Soliloquy back in the fall of 2004.
Aimed at those 16 and up, their musical repertoire is diverse as well ranging from spirituals and contemporary tunes to classical and Renaissance.
Ultimately, Ward finds tremendous satisfaction and fulfillment in pouring so much of her time into leading these choirs, which go on to become polished, award-winning and acclaimed groups.
"As you get older, ambition sort of turns into purpose. What are we doing with our lives? What contributions are we making? The more I do this, and the longer I'm in music – I know it's a part of who I am. It's my language of communication."
Ward says she often heads to a choir rehearsal after a hectic day and leaves the session utterly invigorated. "By the end of rehearsal, I am so wired and ready to go. I get into the groove of the music, communicating with people and watching what is happening with the singers. It fills me up – it really is hard to explain what it is. But when I'm in front of a choir, it feels so effortless.
"Part of my spirit is just set on fire every time I'm really involved in music."
Meanwhile, Ward is also thrilled about a special event set for June 12 at New Life Fellowship Church featuring several choirs. This year, she has extended an invitation to anyone who has sang in choirs that she has directed over the past 21 years to attend as well.
"We want them to come back and sing with us."
For tickets to that event, drop by the Community Programs office at Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School.
For more information about any of the above, visit www.lisalward.com.
