Highland male voice choir on hunt for new conductor
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A MALE voice choir is appealing for a new conductor and deputy to step forward.
The Highland Gospel Male Voice Choir serves the community by singing across the region to help raise funds for local church projects and charities.
It practices every Monday at Inshes Church of Scotland in Inverness except during July and regularly has around 20 engagements each year.
It was established more 30 years ago and draws members from as far afield as Drumnadrochit, Tain and Nairn.
However, over the past year, their principal conductor has passed away and one of his deputies moved south to live close to his family.
Eric Halkett, the choir secretary, said: "Although the choir already has a musical director, it is hoped that there is a Christian reading this article with qualified experience in conducting choirs, who feels called to assist even on a part-time basis.
"The choir is a part of a worldwide movement known as the Festival of Male Voice Praise and most members annually take part in all the festivals held throughout Scotland and some venture further into Northern Ireland and England.
"Several years ago the choir sent a tape of some of their songs to many farmers in the UK and from this a tradition has developed where the choir and the Dingwall Auction Mart unite to hold a farming community carol service every year and donate the offering to a local charity."
Another tradition arose from a chance meeting on a bus between a prison chaplain and a choir conductor and Mr Halkett said: "So now during Prisoners Week every November the choir sing in Porterfield Prison in Inverness."
As well as local branches of national organisations the choir supports a range of local charities including: Maggie's Highlands, Highland Hospice, Street pastors, Blythswood Care, Bear Necessities and H&I Youth For Christ.
Mr Halkett said: "As Christian men we give our time and talent freely to serve the Lord by bringing the Gospel in song to care homes, churches and charities across the whole of the Highlands and Moray.
"However, it is vital for its future that someone comes forward to help with either or both positions offered as soon as possible."
Anyone who feels they can help is urged to contact Mr Halkett on 07563 784241 or alternatively visit the church on a Monday night between 7pm and 9pm to find out more.
