It's a tough time to start a new choir, but that's exactly what happened when a group of music lovers got together recently.
Founded just prior to the pandemic, the North Bay Rock Choir was unable to assemble live so it had to reinvent itself and create a virtual format for its 15 members to sing and share beloved rock and pop songs as a way to stay connected.
Based on the Rock Choir model developed in the UK, this choir is dedicated to singing time-tested, fun radio tunes in three and four-part harmony.
The group is an informal collective of amateur singers who sing to have fun and to "bring joy in these uncertain times," says Heather Smith, founder of North Bay Rock Choir.
The choir supports its members and others by performing outdoor birthday and get well tributes in front of people’s homes.
"It’s a great way to stay connected, be community-minded and share the joy of singing together," explains Smith.
And it has is released its first recording (see below) – Lean on Me/We Shall Overcome - as a testament to the power of community and song in overcoming adversity.
“The Rock Choir concept starting brewing in January 2020 and we were set to start when COVID-19 hit," adds Smith. "However, those who had expressed an interest still wanted to sing. So we learned and recorded our parts for Lean on Me at home. Then the audio team put them all together to create this beautiful piece that has given us a purpose during these difficult times and has uplifted us as a group.”
The group welcomes everyone, ages 13+, who love to sing! Email [email protected]
With North Bay an area now in stage 3 of reopening, the North Bay Rock Choir also has outdoor rehearsals, weather permitting, for those who feel comfortable singing together while maintaining physical distancing. Its repertoire is expanding and includes uplifting songs like Walking on Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves and Don’t Stop by Fleetwood Mac.
Next month the group plans on continuing to meet safely in the open air to practice songs in preparation for outdoor Christmas caroling.
"We are proud to release our first recording, dedicated to the people of North Bay, as a testament to the power of community and song in overcoming adversity," says Smith.
Most members live in the North Bay area.
The North Bay Rock Choir’s recording of Lean on Me/We Shall Overcome, arranged by Mark Hayes, was produced by Samanta Izquierdo and Juan Gabela, two local artists newly arrived from Ecuador. See it below.
