Busy times for Athlone A Cappella ahead of Killarney

Athlone A Cappella (AAC) has been very busy recently, between singing to the public and practising for an upcoming competition in Killarney at the INEC Gleneagles at the IABS Annual convention. (Irish Association of Barbershops Society).

AAC was set up in 2012 by David Farmer, though Hilary Roche is now the Director – the chorus at present numbers over 40 members.

Both directors have brought the chorus to great success over the years with gold and silver medals.

AAC is a close harmony barbershop group in the Barber shop tradition - the emphasis is on close, carefully arranged harmony. A Cappella music is a performance by a singer or choir without instrumental accompaniment.

There are four different sections within the choir – Bass, Baritone, Lead and Tenors. The Bass section covers the lowest range of notes and the medium range is sung by the Baritones. The tune is usually carried by the Leads and the highest range is sung by the Tenors.

AAC recently entertained the residents of Sonas Nursing home singing many firm favourites which were greatly appreciated!

AAC also recently participated in Culture Night which took place on the 20th September in Athlone Library, which was once again received by a very appreciative audience.

It also gave the chorus a chance to air their two competition songs which they will be performing at The Gleneagles in Killarney from October 4 to October 6.

AAC will be performing two songs – a ballad from Moulin Rouge –“Come What May” and “You Don’t Own Me” which was originally sung by Lesley Gore in 1963.

These are challenging songs and the chorus has been putting in many hours practice to get ready for the competition.

AAC will be performing in the national competition section and will be up against choruses from across Ireland.

Recently the competitive band in which AAC competed had widened somewhat, and AAC is now up against male as well as mixed choirs - who also have a wealth of experience in the competition – so the performance stakes are high!

There will also be choirs and quartets from many other countries such as the UK, Denmark and Sweden who will be competing the international section of the competition.

It will be hectic weekend for the singers and directors and it is a great chance not only to showcase their musical talents, but a chance to meet up with like minded individuals and groups.

After the competition there is a gala dinner and a chance for people to sing informally and to relax.

If you are interested in finding out more about Athlone A Cappella contact athloneacappella@outlook.com or send a message directly to the Athlone A Cappella Facebook page.