Wellington gay men's chorus The Homophones is welcoming new members as rehearsals begin again this week for upcoming concert dates. Chorus: Members of The Homophones rehearse The Homophones' year begins with two new members' nights, where anyone is welcome to come along, meet the guys, and sample songs. "You don't need to read music to take part, and our musical director is proficient at helping you find your place in the choir," says convenor Mark Beehre. "We enjoy singing and strive for the best standard we can achieve, while putting a strong emphasis on inclusiveness and community." A highlight of the Homophones' programme for 2010 will be taking part in the Out and Loud festival in Auckland at Easter, where gay and lesbian choirs from around Australasia will gather for a weekend of fun and harmony. Also on the agenda are the Homophones' own concerts in Wellington and a repeat of last year's very popular and enjoyable weekend 'music camp'. Hitting the right notes The Homophones' group was formed in 2007 as a community male-voice choir open to all who wish to participate. Like the choir itself, whose members range in age from their 20s to their 60s, the Homophones' repertoire is a varied one," Beehre explains. "Our inaugural concert featured songs in six different languages, and we continue to explore a wide variety of music." Previous programmes have featured composers from Brahms to the Beatles, alongside Maori waiata, traditional African songs, and signature tune 'We're the Men of the Chorus'. The gay choral movement is a world-wide phenomenon and is an opportunity for gay men to meet in a social setting and enjoy making music together. The Homophones' New Members' Nights are scheduled for tomorrow Thursday 28 January and next Thursday 4 February, from 6.30 until 8.30pm at the Church Hall of St Mary of the Angels in Boulcott Street. For more details about The Homophones, see the group's official website.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News Staff
First published: Wednesday, 27th January 2010 - 4:09pm