Craigie Choir set for Northern Ireland appearance

Jan 15 2010 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

THE many voices which make up Perth’s successful Craigie Choir are heading to Belfast in the spring for a top music event.

As well as appearing on the BBC television series “Last Choir Standing”, the choir – who rehearse once a week in Craigie Primary School – have triumphed at Perform in Perth three years in a row.

And the 28-strong ensemble are hoping their trip to Northern Ireland for April’s International Music Festival will enhance their profile still further.

Member Liz Jeffrey, who has been singing with Craigie Choir since it began life five years ago, said the highlight of an action-packed 2009 was taking to the stage alongside Celtic rockers Runrig.

She said: “One of our group knows Runrig’s Brian Hurren and we sent him a DVD to show him what we can do.

“Not only did we get to sing backing vocals at Scone Palace, but we also appeared alongside two band members in Edinburgh and Glasgow.”

The contemporary, acappella, choir list Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “California Dreaming” by the Mamas and Papas, and “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon and Garfunkel in their repertoire.

To raise funds for their upcoming trip, organisers are planning a series of fundraising events in the run-up to their departure.

A 70s/80s-themed disco is to be held in Perth’s Salutation Hotel on Friday, January 22.

Tickets, £6, from the South Street venue.