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Status
Received: on time
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Income
£17.9K
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Spending
£14.6K
Public benefits
The main direct benefit that emanates from Ards Choral Society's purpose (objects) is the better understanding and general advancement of the arts and sciences, specifically the art and science of music and in particular choral singing. Choir members themselves benefit from learning, practising and developing confidence in performing a wide range
of choral music from a variety of genres, and audience members (the general public) are educated in the appreciation of these genres through attendance at concerts and recitals, listening (to singing and oral descriptions of the music by the Musical Director), reading (written programme descriptions of music performed and the relevant composers) and occasional participation themselves! Entertainment and having fun are key by-products! Further benefits include the social aspect of meeting a range of others from a wide variety of backgrounds, all with a shared interest in choral singing, either through weekly rehearsals or at public performances and recitals. The choir's purpose also facilitates and benefits young soloists (choral and instrumental) at the start of their careers, through invitations to perform with Ards Choral Society, both at public and civic events. In all the purpose (objects) and contributions made by Ards Choral Society add a rich, cultural level to the local community and enhance the lives of those interested in choral music within the local Ards/North Down area and further afield. Benefits are demonstrated through enhanced quality of performance and appreciation of an expanding repertoire across a range of genres, as recognised by audiences and choir members alike. Qualitative feedback from audiences is largely very positive and, quantitatively, audience attendance averages 200. Choir membership remains at around 60 with an average attendance at rehearsals and concerts of 85%, and more and more young soloists seek invitation to perform with the choir each year, demonstrating the benefits to their careers. The Society is increasingly invited to perform at religious and civic events, demonstrating enhanced social and cultural networking within the local community. Now celebrating its 75th Anniversary (founded in 1947), its very longevity indicates that Ards Choral Society continues to attract interested members and followers, and to fulfil its purpose of educating and entertaining those with an interest in the art and science of music in the choral tradition. No harm arises from the Society's purpose (objects); nor is any identified in any of the choir's activities. Our beneficiaries are the general public, in particular, though not limited to, those living in the geographical district of Newtownards, North Down and Comber. There is no private benefit flowing from the purpose (objects) of Ards Choral Society.
... [more] [less]What your organisation does
Ards Choral Society is based in Newtownards, Co Down and attracts voluntary members from across the Ards/North Down/Comber area and further afield. Membership is open to all sections of the community irrespective of age, ethnicity, gender (and its reassignment), disability, religion, political opinion, sexual orientation, marital status and number
of dependants. We are a mixed choir of approximately 60 adult members, practising weekly and performing a wide range of choral music each year in four-part harmony (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass). An amateur choir, we are highly active and enthusiastic, providing music of excellence for the local community and members alike. Our trademark performance is Handel’s Messiah which we perform at Christmas in a variety of venues mostly, but not exclusively, around North Down. This is followed each year by a Spring concert focusing on a wide variety of classical and more modern choral masterpieces by composers such as Vivaldi, Mozart, Haydn, Elgar, Rutter, Whitaker and Karl Jenkins, amongst others. Our year ends with a Supper Concert: a much lighter affair which includes music by contemporary names such as Elton John, Queen and Abba, as well as songs from musical theatre and film. A more recent venture into digital/electronic recording was a key focus during the Covid-19 lockdowns. We are trained by a highly talented and experienced local Musical Director (of some 30 years’ standing) and our performances also provide the opportunity for many young local solo performers, who are starting out on their musical careers, to develop and showcase their talents. Ards Choral Society was originally founded in 1947 and celebrated its 75th Anniversary in 2022. Our Patron is Lady Rose Lauritzen of Mount Stewart.
... [more] [less]The charity’s classifications
- The advancement of the arts, culture, heritage or science
Who the charity helps
- General public
How the charity works
- Arts
- Cultural
