The global phenomenon known as the Pub Choir has arrived in Margaret River, and supporters of the movement are gearing up for their first event later this month.
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Organiser and choir leader Tilly Kelleher said the gatherings saw people of all ages and singing abilities head to their local pubs to enjoy a hearty singalong.
“The Australian version began in Brisbane and it’s branched out across the country,” said Ms Kelleher.
“Megan Hodgson approached me about a Margaret River version, after seeing me perform as part of a choir for a MamaKinSpender project.
“That was where it began, and credit needs to go to Meg. She really got this ball rolling.”
The experienced performer and vocal instructor said the intention behind the choir was to engage the community and allow people the chance to sing without fear.
“When you perform on stage there is definitely a connection with the audience. We’re in this together - how the audience holds the space has a major impact.
“However, it can mean one side is doing all the talking, and the other side is doing all the listening!
“People often tell me how much they wish they could sing, or that they only sing in the shower.
“Anecdotally I know there’s a need for this type of expression in our community.”
Pub choir performances have swept the globe with thousands of people gathering at pubs to enjoy a pint or two while belting out songs from The Cranberries, Toto, Fleetwood Mac and Leonard Cohen’s iconic Hallelujah.
“Pub Choir is a true dropping of the guard,” said Ms Kelleher.
“You come in, get yourself a beverage and meet some people that are all feeling similarly inclined to belt out a tune.”
Song selection plays an important role.
“I’m going to focus on the songs that people know almost on a cellular level, it would be a shame to not utilise all that practice you’ve had driving around in your car singing.”
Margaret River’s Pub Choir will be different to others in that a guest list of musicians will be developed to accompany the singers.
“Our first session will be accompanied by Tony Lane, he is such an experienced musician and teacher.
“The River Hotel crew have been amazing. We’ve got a fabulous big room with lots of reverb and warmth for winter.
“The more of us there is, it creates this wall of sound; everyone around you will be singing and you’ll get to feel part of something amazing.”
The Margaret River Pub Choir will host their first event at The River on Thursday May 17 from 7pm. Clues will be dropped on the Facebook page in the lead up to the first singalong – visit facebook.com/themargaretriverpubchoir
Nicky Lefebvre
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
I am a journalist, photographer and content creator based in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, covering all aspects of our community including local news, sport, entertainment and events, as well as providing a platform for our readers to share their voices direct from regional Australia.
