A 25-voice community choir will perform another spring concert in Surrey to raise money for a pair of local organizations.
On Saturday, June 7, Aequitas Singers are set to "Sing for Change, Lead with Love" at Northwood United Church in Fleetwood, where the Silvia Grassi-directed, non-auditioned choir has rehearsed since 2022.
Songs that night will "reflect the choir’s commitment to social justice issues and include serious, thought-provoking messages as well as upbeat, inspirational themes," with accompanist Norm Olding.
The 7 p.m. concert will benefit Surrey-North Delta Meals on Wheels and Read Surrey/White Rock Society.
"Beneficiaries will describe the work they do within the community of Surrey and will identify their unique contributions overall," a choir member says. "Refreshments will be served at intermission."
Tickets are sold at the door and also on tickettailor.com ($20 for adults, $15 for seniors/under 12).
Founded in 2013, Aequitas Singers Society's mandate and mission is "to educate and create awareness of social justice issues such as poverty, racism, violence against women, homophobia, aboriginal education, literacy, global and peace awareness.
"Our ongoing goals are to provide outreach and education through our choral music choices, via our attendance at community events, as well as hosting one concert per year."
The choir has performed at shelters, Surrey public libraries and other venues including the community dinner at Crossroads United Church, for the University Women’s Club and at Zion Park Manor.
Due to COVID 19, "we had to cancel our 2020 concert, which was intended to be a fundraiser for Surrey Food Bank. We also cancelled all in-person rehearsals. From March 2020 to June 2021, we held weekly “virtual” rehearsals using a ZOOM membership, and despite the challenges inherent with this technology, the choir has developed into a close-knit community of singers who share a common goal. As of September 2021, we resumed in-person rehearsals at David Brankin Elementary School. As of September 2022, we rehearse at Northwood United Church."
Learn more about the choir on aequitassingers.ca.
