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Musical maestro comes to townTo have an international singer and choir director the calibre of Tony Backhouse is indeed a coup for a small town like Wellsford, but such is his commitment and passion to take music countrywide through his workshops and tours cover the globe.
Backhouse has provided musical arrangements for Renee Geyer, Margaret Urlich, Kate Ceberano, Joe Walsh, Dave Dobbyn and many international stars. Called the ‘Godfather of cappella and gospel choir’ in Australia and New Zealand, Tony teaches African-American gospel songs, old and new, embraces South African church songs, doo-wop, R & B and pop. The emphasis is on harmony, collective improvisation and freedom of expression. The workshop he brings to the Local Vocals over March 16-18 is his one and only workshop opportunity in the greater Auckland area in 2018. Local Vocals is a 35 strong community choir based in Wellsford, and very excited to host Tony. “This opportunity to host a song leader of such calibre doesn’t come along very often, we are very much looking forward to it,” says Anna Pendred, Local Vocals president. “His style of leading is warm and easy going. He teaches with such gentle confidence, before you know it, he has a room of strangers singing four part harmony together with joy exuberance!” The Local Vocals Choir invites members from the wider local community. No audtions or prior experience necessary and no music-reading skills are required. “Our philosophy is very much aligned with Tony’s. It’s all about bringing people together to have fun, learn some vocal skills, boost confidence, make friends and enhance well-being.” Anna explains. “We have people coming from as far away as Maungaratoto and Mangawhai in the north, to Warkworth and Snells Beach in the south.” The choir is led by talented song leader Helen Diaz, whose allinclusive style, leading a variety of song from around the world, contributes to the success of this initiative. DETAILS: Full weekend $150; Friday evening only 7pm - 9pm $30; Saturday only 10am - 3pm $75; Saturday & Sunday only $140. For out-of-town participants Local Vocals members are offering billeting for the weekend. |
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