In a sad move for Barbershoppers, for the second year running, the BHNZ Board made the decision to cancel Power of Harmony, the national 2021 BHNZ CONVENTION which was to have been held in Palmerston North. Our Chorus has been practicing since October in the Masonic Hall, since return to Level 2. Colin Furniss is particularly sad we won’t be able to show off our choreo for Swinging on A Star.

As national President Warwick McWha wrote, “I acknowledge that there will be a range of feelings resulting from this decision.  Many will be disappointed that we have been forced to abandon our convention thus removing the ability for our members to gather and do what we love doing, sing barbershop.  For others there will be a sense of relief that a decision has been made which now gives certainty.”

We thank the Host Management Committee in Palmerston North led by Greg Thomson, the Manawatunes Chorus and their band of helpers and the Convention Planning Group for their tireless efforts throughout 2021, to get us all so close to holding a magnificent convention. 

Following the news President Alastair Macfarlane says, in the absence of working for the Convention, “watch this space”. It's time to think about an end of year event of our own, or in partnership with others, and the regular Christmas gigs. Of course, our options will have to be carefully managed with Covid risks.

New President Alastair Macfarlane takes over the post from outgoing Jamie Latornell, who admirably led the Chorus in recent years. Gerry Duignan replaces Ian Clark (below) as Secretary, after his 11 years of service. Ian’s efforts recently resulted in a $2000 grant from the Pegasus Trust towards attendance at the Convention. Ron Soper continues as Treasurer, and Steve Heath begins as our new music librarian.

We couldn’t sing during Alert Level 4, however in Level 3 we could meet safely, socially. So it was pizzas and pilsners at Rizzo’s Pizzeria in the Station Village complex, Hutt Road, for some members. Despite being in a private room and not meant to be singing, you guessed it, we sang anyway.

The weather-proof sign generously designed and donated by David and Seth at Wellington Signs in Petone, takes pride of place on the entrance door during practice nights. So far it has coped well with those gentle Springtime breezes and the occasional muffed musical note heard inside.

Musical Punch Over Lunch - 15 July 2021

A free concert in the beautiful setting and resonance of Old St Paul’s church in Mulgrave Street, Wellington attracted a nearly full house. We were invited to join OSP's lunchtime music series. One wisecrack wondered if the “free” and “lunch” may have been misunderstood by some public servants who turned up. They enjoyed a feast of fine singing regardless, in particular, Last Chance quartet’s excellent cameo, featuring Colin Furniss, Ross and Graeme Gainsford and Norm Collie.

Joy Of Harmony - Sun 8 Aug 2021

Despite terrible weather plenty of loyal supporters came to Queen Margaret College when we joined the Wellington Men’s Voice Choir at their concert, along with Cadenza Kapiti and Coastal Vocal Locals from Kapiti College, both directed by Bridget O’Shanassy. Our chorus sang a rousing tune, Let All Men Sing, with the Men’s Choir, accompanied by Liam Furey on piano and led by Musical Director Mark Stemper.

Some Leads and Basses have joined us, including returnees after time away, alongside several new faces. Neville Young is our newest member; Jonny Warnes and Ian Macfarlane are returnees via VocalFX; and Norm Stewart and Peter White are awaiting audition. They’re  fitting in well, enjoying the usual Chorus hospitality. There is always room for more voices, of course - contact Colin Furniss 027 920 3930

We are already taking bookings for Christmas Carols performances. Tell your friends about employing the chorus for a Christmas show, an awards night, a wedding, anniversary, corporate function, charity event, community entertainment, school gala, birthday party, funeral or memorial service. Contact details at www.hcc.org.nz  Listen out for regular radio mentions on NewsTalkZB promoting the chorus or quartets for hire, all around the region, including the Wairarapa and Kapiti Coast.