The Woodend Warblers helped the streets come alive in Creswick for the annual CresFest celebration of music and arts.
The Warblers joined dancers, buskers, international musicians and a variety of choirs on April 6, for what was considered by many to be their bestperformance yet.
The choir’s repertoire ranged from Won’t Let You Drown, to a lively performance of the Beach Boys’ which had audience members smiling and dancing.
A particular favourite was Freedom is Coming, which is a gospel song written by those committed to ending apartheid in South Africa.
Warbler soprano Trish Hartshorn said their performance in Creswick made her feel at home.
“I immediately felt at home in Creswick on finding the pub full at ten in the morning, with the strains of an Irish jig flowing out onto the street,” she said.
Fellow soprano Rachel Hewitt said CresFest was a special event for the group.
“The crowd was so engaged and warm- just a delight to perform for,” she said.
The Warblers, which has been in existence for six years now, has grown from a small group of beginners to a choir of 30 regular members.
Choir director Andrew Price teaches the group every week, meeting at 7.30pm on Wednesdays at the Norma Richardson Hall in Woodend.
Andrew reassures new members that no singing experience is required, and if you can speak, you can sing.
With members from as far afield as Northcote and Castlemaine, new singers are welcome and rehearsals are full of laughter.
The first session is free, and term fees are $10 per week, or $12 for a single week. Details: 0419 604 444.
