Magnificent combination

It’s the first time that the community choir, which has been entertaining East Ren since 1983, has teamed up with the celebrated school group.

The concert, held at the impressive venue of Sherbrooke St Gilbert church in Pollokshields, will focus on a performance of Rutter’s Magnificat, as well as a range of popular classical pieces.

Both groups are practising hard, and Eastwood Choral member Gillian Bain told The Extra: “As far as we’re aware, it’s the first time that East Renfrewshire schools have co-operated with a community choir to do a concert together – so it’s a real community event.

“There are around 70 children involved, and another 50 of us singing. It’s going to be a big night.”

The performers may total up to more than 100 members, but the church venue fits an audience of 400 – and seats are filling up fast.

Gillian added: “We’re limited in numbers, and the children have been given first choice so that family and friends can come along – but people are still very welcome to pay at the door.”

A seasoned Choral Society performer, Gillian has been a member for around 15 years, and enjoys the boost she gets from being in the club.

She added: “I love it. Everybody is welcome, because there’s no audition process. And nowadays, everyone knows there are health benefits to singing together in a group.

“The society has a very active social life too.”

For anyone inspired by the April concert, the society is always happy to accept new members, and welcomes all to rehearsals on Monday nights, 7.45-9.45pm in the jubilee hall at Park church, Giffnock.

For everyone else, the date for A Magnificat Celebration is Sunday, April 21, at 7.30pm, with tickets at £8 (£6 for concessions and under 16s).

To find out more, visit www.eastwoodchoralsociety.org.uk/future.html.