Music heals and connects communities

Luscious sounds and raucous laughter, with a touch of massage, a few warm up zing zings and it’s a recipe for a fun group of harmonians who meet each week to stretch our vocal cords. Our repertoire includes a range of songs from around the world, from gospel to swing or chanting Middle Eastern. We especially love our African songs, with our current favourite being “Shosholoza” – the soccer anthem associated with the South African World Cup.

We also have a sexy rendition of “Fever” which we have been practicing diligently all year. We performed our debut of this song at the Mt Coolum Nursing Home in May and the residents agreed we were "hot... hot.” This performance coincided with the Making Music Being Well initiative, celebrating the links between making music and feeling good.

It’s the reason we share our songs with others in the community, regularly visiting nursing homes, local restaurants, as well as performing at community events, helping to raise awareness about how music can heal, connect and strengthen individuals and communities.

Choir director Yvonne Corstorphin is passionate about sharing these uplifting sounds with others, particularly those who have never sung before.

“Cool Harmonies encourage anyone who wants to find their voice to come and join us in a friendly and supportive environment, where they can have fun exploring and communicating with others through the wonderful world of song,” she said.

“Although singing world music has brought us great joy, it has become very clear that the friendships formed among choir members - and our involvement in activities within the community - are just as important and fulfilling.”

There is no pre-requisite for joining the Cool Harmonies community choir. Even if you only sing in the shower or the privacy of your car (like me) the group offers a supportive environment where members are encouraged to try different vocal ranges between the Bass, Tenor, Alto and Soprano sections. We even have a bit of artistic license to express ourselves vocally… well, within harmonious reason at least!

So come and experience the joys of singing at the Uniting Church Hall in Elizabeth St, Coolum, on Thursdays (during school terms) from 10am and 12pm.

Also, keep an eye out for our two next gigs on Saturday, 7 August during the Coolum Celebration Day activities. Our first performance is at 10am at the Uniting Church Craft & Hobby Expo, followed by a combined gig with the marimba and drumming group “Cool Beats” at 11.15am in Jack Morgan Park.