Staff
It’s a golden anniversary for the choir known as the Goldenaires. The women’s choir was officially formed in 1969 under the direction of John Fox, but its origin was in 1967, when a massed choir was assembled in Meaford to sing at Canada’s Centennial celebrations. The name of the choir was chosen because Meaford was known as the Golden Town at that time.
Over the years the choir has remained a non-audition community choir and is the only one of its kind in the Meaford – Thornbury area. There have been about five directors and at least six accompanists since then. Currently, Catherine Robertson is the director and Helen Crowston accompanies the choir. One original charter member, Pauline Major, still sings with the choir. The choir performs twice a year, with a Christmas and a Spring concert. The music performed is varied – popular, classical, secular and religious. There is often a guest group or soloist to enhance the choir’s performance.
Beyond the concerts, the Goldenaires give back to the community at large by singing at the local Long Term Care homes, performing at community events when asked, and donating funds to the music programs in the schools as well as outreach organizations.
In celebration of their 50th anniversary, in early May, the Goldenaires will be offering a concert. A special dinner and an evening of remembering with past and present members will also be a weekend highlight. Mark your calendars for the Celebrate with Song concert – Sunday, May 5, 2 p.m. at Meaford Hall. Get your tickets at the box office or order online at www.meafordhall.ca.
