Mayor hosts choir reception
Mayor Paul Porter with Christ Church Parish Lisburn Choir US491O-401PM
Pic
by Paul Murphy
LISBURN Mayor, Alderman Paul Porter, recently hosted a civic reception for Christ Church Choir to recognise the contribution which they have made to the City through their Music in May concerts and their extensive support of charities.
Christ Church Choir comprises some 23 members. They are directed by Richard Yarr who has been Organist in Christ Church since 1992, with Renee Madden, the Deputy Organist, providing a key supporting role.
Music in May - three Tuesday lunchtime concerts - began in 2006, attracting around 200 visitors, from across Northern Ireland, to the church each week. An average of 100 people enjoy lunch in the parish hall before each concert and this is prepared by members of the choir.
Artists have included Riverdale Primary School Choir, Ulster Orchestra Principal Trumpeter Paul Young, Lisburn violinist Hayley Howe, Londonderry pianist Ruth McGinley, Belfast Clarinettist Gillian McCutheon and Ballyclare Soprano Sheelagh Greer - as well as Christ Church organist, Richard Yarr.
These have created a great lunchtime buzz in the City. Charities to benefit have included Marie-Curie Cancer Care, Belfast City Hospital Cancer Research, Chest, Heart and Stroke, the Northern Ireland Alzheimer's Society and the Uganda Appeal.
Each October the Choir also the honour of leading Choral Evensong in the historical setting of St Patrick's Cathedral, Armagh. While it is a huge privilege for the group, it has also done much to increase the profile of the city.
Maureen Doran, Choir Treasurer, presented a cheque to the Mayor for his Charity, The Carer's Forum and choir member Margaret Little thanked the Mayor for the honour he had bestowed on them. Tim Littler delivered a short powerpoint presentation outlining the choir's work and the mayor was treated to three festive pieces. A hearty supper was enjoyed by all and the Mayor presented the choir with the City of Lisburn Coat of Arms.
Rev Paul Dundas (Rector), Rev John Pickering (Senior Minister), Councillor Roy Young, Alderman Ivan Davis, Jonathan Craig MLA and Minister Edwin Poots were also in attendance.
Ulster Star
17/12/2010
