Half way through the first summer term, our new choir is taking off in the West Midlands! Taking small steps, after only one month, it has already become a united group and ‘Ain’t No Sunshine’ sounds truly amazing, according to our Musical Director, Ruairi Edwards. Previously, he worked alongside Gareth Malone on the BBC Series, Sing While you Work, where he was installed as MD of the Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service Choir, one of the groups formed on the show. As MD of Birmingham’s Voice of the Town, Ruairi has been described by members as being very enthusiastic and passionate. So with great feedback from both members and Ruairi, the future can only be very bright for our new choir!
And you still have time to book your FREE Taster Session and see what it’s all about! Birmingham’s Voice of the Town rehearse every Tuesday (moving to a Wednesday on 10th September), starting 7pm, at The Rose Villa Tavern, in Jewellery Quarter.
If you’re still a little unsure, read this short interview below and find out what Ruairi’s expectations at the beginning were and what his hopes are for the future regarding VOTT.
1. What did you expect from Voice of the Town when you first start working?
I honestly didn’t know what to expect! The Birmingham branch of VOTT was completely new, so that meant myself as well as everybody else who was there. I knew that the music – pop, gospel, rock – was going to be fantastic, but apart from that it was a baptism of fire – for all of us!
2. Now that your first term as MD for VOTT is halfway through, what is your impression of it?
I have really enjoyed my time as Birmingham MD so far. The absolute highlight for me has been the people in choir – everyone who is in VOTT Birmingham is incredibly friendly; everyone is there to have a good time and to meet people. That dynamic is great and I am really starting to enjoy the bond that people are making with each other.
3. What do you hope or expect from your choir in the future?
I really want to see VOTT Birmingham go from strength to strength over the next few months and into next year – in terms of the sound we make, the friendships that develop, and the numbers of people who turn up and enjoy themselves through singing with other people. I’ve got very high hopes based on the experience I’ve had so far!