East Gippsland is alive with the sound of music.
On Sunday, May 24, choirs from across the region gathered at St Mary’s Church for the 28th Annual Choral Festival, bringing together more than 200 singers in a celebration of music, community and fellowship.
Ten choirs took part in the event – Alleycats, Bairnsdale Gentlemen’s Choir, Harmony Scholars, Lakes Entrance Girls Singers, Metung Singers, Nowa Nowa Men’s Choir, Stratford Singers, and, for the first time, Phoenix Singers and the Maffra Community Choir.
The combined voices filled St Mary’s Church throughout the afternoon, with organisers describing the massed choir performances as a highlight of the festival.
Particular applause was reserved for the two finale songs performed by all choirs together, with Kim Green directing Why We Sing, while Evan Bryant and Rob Latimer led a rousing rendition of Sweet Caroline.
The packed church reflected the strong support for community choirs across East Gippsland, with the festival again highlighting the enjoyment and connection singing brings to people of all ages.
Organisers said the annual gathering continues to provide not only a wonderful afternoon of music and laughter, but also important social and wellbeing benefits for participants and audiences alike.
