Newcastle University is currently home to a thriving musical scene. Boasting at least 7 different music-related societies, there is something for everyone.
One of the largest of these is the Music Society which, at the time of writing, runs 6 ensembles, regular open mic nights, socials and a successful Outreach program taking music into primary schools in the local area (keep reading The Courier’s On Campus column to find out more about these in coming weeks).
One of the largest ensembles in the society is the MUSSOC VOICES choir - an un-auditioned four-part choir which meets on a Wednesday 4-5:30. This choir sings a variety of music from choral classics through to the songs of ABBA!
It really creates a sense of community between students and locals. I’m exceptionally proud of all the singers and what they’ve achieved the past year and a half!
Conductor Tom Edney, a third-year music student, leads the ensemble and organises the music:
“I’ve loved setting up MUSSOC Voices last year and carrying it on this year. It’s been a fantastic opportunity to bring together a wealth of people from different backgrounds and perform around Newcastle. It really creates a sense of community between students and locals. I’m exceptionally proud of all the singers and what they’ve achieved the past year and a half!”
During rehearsals, Tom works with the singers to get the best out of them and create the most impressive sound!
This group sings regularly around Newcastle and will be going out carolling as we get closer to Christmas. They will also be performing as part of the MUSSOC Winter concert on the 10th of December in King’s Hall in the Armstrong Building, which promises to be a very exciting evening.
As part of the choir you develop your choral singing skills such as singing as a section, signing in harmony and diction. With these grows performing confidence and an ability to read music. It’s also a great chance for members to get away from the course and do something they enjoy in a really chilled environment.
If you would like to sing in the choir contact the Newcastle Music Society or come along to a rehearsal in room 2.98 of the Armstrong building at 4:00 on Wednesday.
