OLDS — The Olds Community Chorus (OCC) is back after a couple of years, due to COVID restrictions, director Theresa Wasden says.
Rehearsals begin Sept. 8 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Hope Pointe Church in Olds, with a performance slated for Dec. 8.
Members of the chorus kicked off the new season with a meet and greet Sept. 1 for anyone interested participating in the group. It was a chance to meet the board and discuss how they could volunteer or participate in the chorus.
Wasden says new board members are still needed to fill some positions. And, the group is still looking for more vocalists.
The chorus has a new accompanist, Kathleen VanMourik, who accompanies the Sundre Community Choir.
“Their manager, Pauline Blech, also sings with the OCC and recommended Kathleen to us," Wasden wrote in an email. “She had accompanied the Olds Community Chorus in past years.”
Wasden is pleased to have a new OCC season begin. Due to COVID restrictions, their last performance occurred in December, 2019.
“It’s been so long. We’ve gained some members and sadly, lost some members during the past two-and-a-half years," Wasden wrote.
“Twice we rescheduled our performance at a seniors’ retirement home in Olds. Both times, we were unable (to), due to a COVID breakout.
“The Olds United Church generously allowed us to rehearse there for no cost. We did a performance there and also performed for them during their Sunday meeting. It felt so good to gather to sing.”
The chorus also sang during a celebration of life for former OCC member and conductor Ron Brown.
“This year is more about fun and finding what the new rules are and how to apply them while still helping everyone to feel they belong,” Wasden wrote.
