Press Release Spring 2022

January 31^st, 2022 will be a fondly remembered date for members of Millicent Singers.

After 99 weeks apart the full choir finally returned to in-person rehearsal. The atmosphere was one of excitement, tinged with emotion. Reacquainting with fond friends and enjoying what they love doing Millicent Singers were delighted to be back together.

During their time apart Millicent Singers were saddened to hear of the passing of their beloved friend and former choir member, Máire Weedle, in April 2021. Remembering Máire fondly, chairperson Maureen Brien recalls that “Máire had a huge influence on us over the years and is responsible for instilling a love for music in us.” As well as being the wife of the choir’s founder, Michael Weedle RIP, Máire remained a staunch supporter and will be forever fondly remembered. May her gentle soul be at peace.

Over the past almost two years, lockdowns and general disruption to normal life never dampened the desire to sing and Millicent Singers continued to find creative ways of rehearsing and making music together.

Buoyed on by the very well-received virtual concert in December 2020, the members were keen to keep singing in 2021 no matter what.

The next project undertaken was to prepare for a possible Christmas performance, restrictions permitting.

Meeting in small pods each week throughout the autumn, the choir worked with musical director Alan Kelly to focus on the finer points of each piece, while putting in home practice as well.

With 2021 marking the 25^th anniversary of Millicent Singers, the choir were remaining cautiously optimistic that they would be in a position to celebrate this impressive milestone in their favourite way – by performing together for an audience.

It was not until the dress rehearsal for the Christmas concerts that the whole choir could come together in person for the first time since 9^th March 2020!

Their wishes came true, and Millicent Singers delighted their loyal followers with two in-person concerts in the beautiful Boys’ Chapel at Clongowes Wood College in early December 2021.

It was an emotional night for both audience and choir members alike – one that will go down in history, a sign of hope that normal life was just around the corner.

The members are delighted to be back rehearsing and will work together until June 2022, when this choral season ends.

Progress on the choir’s début album recording will recommence as soon as restrictions allow. The launch of the album may be delayed yet again, but the enthusiasm for the project has not waivered and Millicent Singers look forward to promoting this exciting project as soon as possible.

In the meantime, Millicent Singers is alive and kicking. The choir remain upbeat and are focused on marking the season with another performance in May.

More details to follow!