Kathleen Ware's blog

‘Birds do it, bees do it, even educated fleas do it …’ They all sing unaccompanied, with pure, carefree abandon. And for the last 30 years in the Hills District, that’s exactly what Circular Keys Chorus have been doing in glorious four-part harmony – ‘a cappella’ style – bringing joy to audiences wherever they perform.
The chorus recently celebrated at a special anniversary concert at the Cherrybrook Community and Cultural Centre. On stage were the current members of the chorus, performing for an enthusiastic audience of music lovers and former members who have shared in the chorus’s history over the years.

Last weekend, the Sweet Adelines Australia National Convention was held in Hobart, and our very own Alouette Quartet delivered a stunning performance on the national stage.

Competing against 21 talented quartets from across the country, Alouette members, Vicki, Diane, Crystal and Jane, performed two beautiful songs in the highly competitive quartet division. The stakes were high, with qualification for this year’s International Convention in Columbus on the line once again.

Back home, many Circular Keys Chorus members gathered for a lively webcast watch party at a member’s home, eagerly following the livestream performances. Cheers erupted as Alouette took the stage, followed by enthusiastic applause at the conclusion of their performance.

Circular Keys Chorus is offering women from across the Sydney region and beyond the opportunity to attend a six-week course, starting next month. The ‘Learn to Sing A Cappella’ workshop starts on 18th February and runs for six consecutive Wednesdays from 7.30 to 10 pm. Participants will learn vocal techniques from one of Australia’s leading professional directors and be surrounded by a group of like-minded women who love sharing the exhilaration of singing ‘a cappella’ style, that is without instrumental accompaniment.

The cheer squads from down under were in overdrive at the Greater Columbus Convention Centre (Ohio USA) for this year’s Sweet Adelines International competition. They may have been massively outnumbered by the North American audience members, but they more than made up for that minor impediment with their Olympic-sports-stadium-style welcomes to each of the Aussie performances that graced the stage. And why not? After all, this is indeed the world championships in the extreme sport of women’s barbershop singing. 

Two quartets from Circular Keys Chorus recently showcased their talent at the Barbershop Harmony Australia Eastern Region Competition, held on 24 May at the Cherrybrook Community Centre.

Alouette delivered an outstanding performance, earning 1st place in the Women’s Divisionand taking home 1st place overall in the quartet category. Meanwhile, Kephi also impressed the judges and audience alike, securing a strong 2nd place in the Women’s Division.

Both quartets are celebrating their success and proud to represent Circular Keys Chorus on the BHA stage.