Prairie Blend still growing after 15 years
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 08/06/2018 (2692 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Over the past 15 years, Prairie Blend Men’s Choir has grown to take on a life of its own, says founding conductor Deanna Ginn.
“I feel really proud of the ensemble,” Ginn said. “I feel kind of in awe of the way that things have grown and continue to grow. I feel like I’ve grown up as a conductor, by being able to be at the helm of Prairie Blend.”
To mark the milestone, the ensemble is hosting a 15th anniversary concert at Knox United Church on Sunday.
There are currently 25 members in the group, but over the years some 60 singers have come and gone. Several original members remain involved, including Jim Lewthwaite. He says it’s the camaraderie that keeps him coming back.
“You do form bonds, and especially for those of us who have been there a long time,” he said.
Lewthwaite also had high praise for their “dynamic and inspiring” conductor.
“She is just a dynamo, she’s got tons of energy, she’s loads of fun, and she’s a huge reason why we keep coming back,” he said.
Ginn said Prairie Blend came together without knowing what the end result would be.
“It’s been kind of awesome to feel the planetary alignment work in our favour and feel like we’ve established this ensemble that hopefully will continue into the future,” she said.
Prairie Blend features members with a wide range of backgrounds and ages, ranging from early 20s to 80s. The accompanist is Leanna Mitchell, who has been with the group for the past 12 years.
“One of the neat things about choral music, is there are so many interesting people from all different facets of life and all at different stages in life,” Ginn said. “We have the privilege of coming together, with the unifying factor being a love of music.”
Members also have varied musical experience, from those who sing in church choirs to others with classical training.
“The ones that are truly experienced …. those of us who don’t have the experience are continually learning from them, and it just challenges us to punch a little above our weight,” Lewthwaite said.
Every year, the group hosts a Christmas concert and a spring/summer concert. They have been continually adding shows around Brandon and Westman, recently playing in Strathclair.
Prairie Blend has a diverse repertoire, including spiritual, classical, folk and pop music. Some pieces are in different languages, such as French, Spanish or Latin.
“Deanna is marvellous at picking repertoire, a choice of music that is just absolutely stunning,” Lewthwaite said. “It keeps us on our toes, but it can move us even in rehearsal, to tears.”
Sunday’s 15th anniversary concert takes place at 3 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door, with proceeds to be shared with the Brandon Bear Clan.
» jaustin@brandonsun.com
» Twitter: @jillianaustin