In singing The Messiah to a capacity audience last Christmas, members of the Redland City choir also raised $5000 for victims of domestic violence.
Choir director Anita Taylor gave the money to The Redland Foundation’s Don Seccombe with Mayor Karen Williams recently, reaching $25,000 in donations from the choir over five years.
“I think it is quite unusual for a choir to raise money for a charity. The music of the choir gives so much joy and now there is that extra layer to realise that we can help people financially as well. Our gifts are not only musical, but financial. It’s wonderful and it’s surreal,” Ms Taylor said.
Mr Seccombe said it was fantastic that the money was being given to such a good cause.
“We hold the funds until they can are used for victims of domestic violence. We are very happy to do this for such a good and worthwhile cause,” Mr Seccombe said.
Mayor Karen Williams said this contribution was yet another example of the community spirit that existed in the Redlands.
“Our city’s fight against domestic and family violence is a community-led initiative and it is only possible through the support of people like those in the Redland City community choir and everyone else who supports this cause.
“We are busy planning this year’s Diner en Rouge on May 12, which will continue the community’s commitment to supporting those in our community affected by domestic and family violence,” she said.
Ms Taylor said she could not have reached this target without the support of sponsors and grants for the choir.
“Every show we do is a leap of faith. This was a choir that was formed for a one-off performance at the Easter Festival and look where we are now. I certainly never expected this to happen,” she said.
Ms Taylor said she felt a “bit proud and a bit special” about raising the funds.
“It brings out the spirit of the Redlands,” she said.
The choir is the resident choir at the Redland Performing Arts Centre and rehearses from 7pm on Thursdays. Enquiries to 0413 039 329.
