Exciting new chapter for Larne Choral Society as Darren takes up the baton with enthusiasm ahead of 150th anniversary celebration
Larne Choral Society has announced the appointment of a new musical director ahead a milestone celebration.
Darren Day’s installation marks an exciting new chapter for the long established four part choir, which next year will be celebrating 150 years of choral singing in Larne.
Darren brings a wealth of experience in choral music and musical education, to the choir. He is an accomplished and highly regarded piano teacher, accompanist, examiner and in recent years has adjudicated at local music festivals.
In accepting his new role, Darren thanked the choir for their “warm welcome” and said he was ”already starting to feel like part of the furniture – in a good way”.
The choir’s committee stated: “We are delighted to welcome Darren as our new conductor and musical director. We firmly believe that his enthusiasm for singing, his sense of fun, and musical knowledge will inspire us, challenge us, and help us continue to grow musically as a choir.”
The choir has already begun rehearsing with their new conductor as they prepare for their first official performance under his baton which is due to take place in the town in May (venue to be confirmed).
In a statement, the committee added: “Darren is effusive in his belief of the power of singing to boost our mood and is committed to nurturing singers of all ages and abilities.
"New singers are being invited to join Larne Choral Society, with no audition required, or just to come and watch a practice with no strings attached. The ability to read music is helpful but by no means essential, so why not give it a go.”
Practice takes place on Tuesday nights, 7.30-9.30pm, at the Sandy Bay Pavilion, 15 Tower Road, Larne, from September to May. Anyone interested in joining is encouraged to come along and experience the friendly atmosphere first-hand. The choir sing a wide variety of music in contemporary, sacred and classical choral styles, from Mendelssohn to Van Morrison and everything in between.
“With such a talented new musical director at the helm, leading with energy and enthusiasm, Larne Choral Society is excited to see what their next chapter will hold – watch this space.”