More than 60 singers from the VoiceWorx Community Choir, ranging in age from 14 to 80, are set to perform at the Altitude Festival in Blackborough Village, Honiton, on Saturday, July 25. The performance is part of a series of celebrations marking the choir's 18th anniversary.
Festival Performance Details
The choir will deliver a high-energy setlist of 12 anthems, prepared over months of rehearsals. Members will wear custom clothing for the occasion. This will be the 12th time the choir has performed at the popular regional summer gathering.
Choir History and Impact
Founded 18 years ago after a local musical community play in Payhembury, Devon, the choir was started by Music Director Alan Boxer at the urging of founder members Lesley, Jane, and Liz. Over the years, the choir has performed at least 10 times annually alongside other local musicians and orchestras, raising funds for healthcare organizations and national charities.
Member Experiences
Founder member Jane, who joined because there were no auditions, said: "I never expected it to be so much fun." She added that her 18 years with VoiceWorx have taught her to have more confidence and to "give it a go," recalling Alan's advice: "You might just hit the right note, but you won't know until you try!"
Liz recalled happy memories of choir trips to France, Exeter, Stratford, and Wales, as well as singing at funerals, weddings, and birthdays. "We haven't had a christening yet - there is always time!" she said.
More recent members Paul, Lin, Karen, and Patrick noted the wide variety of music, including contemporary, pop, folk, classical, gospel, and more. Music Directors Alan Boxer and Maria Thorne plan to introduce Latin American vibes next term.
Health and Community Benefits
Several members have found singing therapeutic and a powerful emotional release, especially during the Covid pandemic. Many said: "I always feel better after our Monday evening rehearsals in Kentisbeare."
Chair Katie Parsons said: "Who knows what they will get us doing next?" Organisers hope the festival appearance will inspire new members to join.
Tickets for the Altitude Festival are available online. For more information or to join the choir, visit www.voiceworx.org.uk.
